Security awareness training is now recognised as essential for reducing human risk and defending against modern cyber threats. The effectiveness of your programme depends on what you include and how training is delivered. A well structured approach ensures employees understand risks, stay engaged and apply secure behaviour consistently.

This guide outlines the key components that every security awareness training programme should include.

The right topics

Traditional awareness sessions attempted to cover every security issue in a single lecture, leaving users overwhelmed and unlikely to retain key information. Modern cloud based training allows organisations to deliver content tailored to each employee’s needs.

All users should receive training on core security topics, with additional modules for specific roles or environments. For example, remote workers may need training on VPN use, while office based staff may need additional guidance on physical security.

Video or slide based content

Engagement matters. Slide based lectures and long text only modules often result in low retention. Video content helps make training relatable, memorable and easier to understand.

Videos can tell clear stories and present scenarios that users recognise from their everyday work. Text based slides still play a role in delivering detailed information, but combining formats provides the best overall learning experience.

Regular modules

Information does not stay with users unless it is reinforced regularly. A single annual training session creates only short term awareness. Breaking training into short monthly modules improves retention and keeps employees alert to new threats.

Repetition is key. Delivering small, frequent lessons helps users remember and apply good security practice throughout the year.

Simulated phishing

Testing is essential for reinforcing learning. Phishing simulations help employees recognise real world threats, demonstrate how easily mistakes can happen and show whether training is improving behaviour.

Including simulations alongside training allows organisations to measure exposure, refine the programme and identify areas that need additional attention.

Cultural change

Security awareness training works best when supported by a wider culture of security. Employees should be encouraged to discuss concerns, report suspicious activity and treat security as part of everyday work.

Building this culture requires consistent communication, leadership support and training that explains why security matters rather than just listing rules.

Get started with the one stop security awareness platform

To deliver meaningful improvements in human security, you need a platform that provides automated training, phishing simulations and engaging video based content.

usecure provides automated cloud based training tailored to each user, along with realistic simulations that strengthen behaviour over time.