By Kevin Gaskell, below, CEO, Data Support Hub
Compliance training is a key part of modern workplace education, especially when it applies to regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR). Yet, despite its importance, compliance training often struggles to engage employees due to overly technical jargon that alienates rather than engages. To secure employee buy-in and embed GDPR principles effectively, we must simplify the message and make it resonate. Here’s how:
The Role of Human Error in Data Breaches
Data breaches represent one of the greatest risks to organisations today, and often, human error is the root cause. Whether it’s sending an email to the wrong recipient, using weak passwords, or falling for phishing scams, mistakes happen when employees lack clear guidance. These aren’t isolated incidents – they’re preventable failures stemming from a gap in understanding.
This is where jargon-laden compliance training falls short. Employees can’t act on what they don’t understand. By removing unnecessary complexity and focusing on practical, relatable instructions, we empower employees to handle personal data with confidence and precision. Simplified training bridges the gap between abstract regulation and daily tasks, reducing the risk of breaches and safeguarding the organisation’s future.
The Legal Obligation for GDPR Training
GDPR mandates that organisations provide training to employees who handle personal data. This isn’t just about ticking a box – it’s about equipping your team with the knowledge to navigate the nuances of compliance. Employees must grasp concepts like data minimisation, lawful processing, and the rights of individuals whose data they manage. Without clear and ongoing education, organisations risk fines, reputational damage, and a breakdown of trust.
But here’s the key: compliance isn’t about bombarding employees with dense policy documents. It’s about connecting the dots between what the law requires and what employees need to do. Proper training ensures that every team member, regardless of their role, can apply GDPR principles confidently. It demonstrates leadership’s commitment to compliance and instils a shared sense of responsibility.
The Role of Leaders in Providing Suitable Training
Leadership engagement is the linchpin of successful compliance training. When leaders champion clear and accessible education, they set the tone for the organisation. It’s a simple truth: if leaders don’t take training seriously, neither will employees. After issuing a £4.4 million fine to the Interserve Group (Oct 2022), the ICO stated the “biggest cyber risk is complacency, not hackers”. Leaders must champion the importance of data security, avoiding complacency at every level, and ensure that adequate resources are allocated to training initiatives. When leaders model appropriate compliance steps, like using strong passwords and securing sensitive files, they show employees that these principles matter. This visibility and accountability reinforce the message that GDPR compliance is a collective effort.
The Benefits of Jargon-Free Training
- Improved Understanding
Clear, relatable language transforms complex concepts into actionable knowledge. For instance, with GDPR instead of discussing “data subjects,” talk about “customers” or “employees” to ensure employees understand their responsibilities.
- Greater Engagement
Accessible training captures attention. By pairing straightforward language with real-world examples and interactive elements, you create a dynamic learning experience. Relatable scenarios show employees the importance of compliance in their roles.
- Increased Accountability
When training is clear, employees are more likely to take ownership of their actions. They understand how their role directly impacts the company’s ability to protect data and build trust.
- Better Retention
Complex jargon can overwhelm and alienate learners, reducing retention. Simple, digestible language helps employees remember what they’ve learned and apply it consistently. It’s about ensuring that knowledge sticks.
Measuring the Success of Jargon-Free Training
To ensure your training hits the mark, focus on these key metrics:
- Employee Feedback: Gather insights through surveys or focus groups. Are employees finding the training relevant and easy to understand?
- Knowledge Retention: Use quizzes or assessments to gauge how well employees have absorbed the material.
- Incident Reduction: Monitor the number of data-related incidents before and after training. A decline signals positive change.
Conclusion
Jargon-free compliance training isn’t just nice to have – it’s imperative. Simplifying the message helps employees connect the dots between regulations and their roles, fostering a culture of accountability and vigilance. When leaders prioritise clear, actionable training and model compliant behaviour, they inspire employees to follow suit.
This isn’t just about avoiding fines or ticking boxes. It’s about protecting your organisation’s reputation, safeguarding customer trust, and empowering your team to excel. By investing in jargon-free training, you turn compliance from an obligation into an opportunity for growth and resilience.
Kevin Gaskell has an impressive track record in building and leading successful companies. He was CEO of Porsche, Lamborghini, and BMW and remains actively involved in numerous companies worldwide, as both an investor and founder
