Hey there! Want to stay in the loop with the latest updates and exclusive content on cutting-edge AI coverage? Join our daily and weekly newsletters. Learn More
When you think of the word “hacker,” what initially pops into your mind? Originally, it described tech enthusiasts pushing the boundaries of technology in the 1950s and 60s. However, by the 1980s, new laws and media sensationalism painted it as synonymous with cybercrime. Times have changed since then.
Forward-thinking governments and businesses have now distinguished the act from the stigma and have embraced the technical skills and fresh perspectives of ethical hackers. It’s a wise move. When a teenager can uncover a vulnerability that could potentially bring down a multi-billion dollar company and chooses to report it ethically, there are valuable lessons to be learned.
The top hackers have honed what I refer to as the “hacker mindset.” It’s a relentless dedication to curiosity, vision, transparency, and reshaping the world despite perceived limitations. Many exceptional leaders I’ve encountered in my career embody these traits, showcasing a fearlessness to challenge the status quo. Sometimes, the best leaders are hackers.
Take the inspiring story of Anand Prakash, an ethical hacker who turned his passion into a successful cybersecurity startup, PingSafe. Prakash identified security gaps in organizations through his hacking experiences and pivoted to create solutions for these challenges. This year, he sold his company to SentinelOne for $100 million. Similarly, earlier this year, hacker-founded Sublime Security secured $20 million to revolutionize cloud email security. Hackers are increasingly becoming entrepreneurs: Companies like ProjectDiscovery, Hadrian, Ethiack, Detectify, and Assetnote exemplify a trend known as “hackerpreneurship.” These founders demonstrate how the attributes of a successful hacker complement the qualities required to lead organizations in a competitive and ever-evolving market. Here’s what I’ve gleaned about leadership from these hackers.
Where others see something broken, find opportunity
Hackers naturally possess the ability to look beyond the surface to uncover hidden elements. They utilize their creativity and resourcefulness to address threats and anticipate future risks. Importantly, they aren’t afraid to dismantle things in order to improve them. Similarly, as a leader of an organization, you encounter challenges that may seem insurmountable from an external perspective. It’s crucial to tackle issues that jeopardize your internal culture or product roadmap and make decisions that propel progress. This is the perfect time to unearth hidden opportunities to fortify your organization and stay bold in your pursuit of a stronger path.
Consider IBM’s transformation as an example. Faced with intense competition and an $8 billion quarterly loss in the early 90s, the company shifted from its hardware focus to invest heavily in software and information technology. This strategic move positioned IBM favorably in the S&P 500 today, far ahead of former rivals unwilling to take risks.
Embrace transparency over obfuscation and feedback over ego
In the hacker community, most disputes are openly discussed in public forums. This healthy discourse fosters strong accountability throughout the cybersecurity landscape. As organizations expand, many struggle with fostering transparency and ownership. Information flow often becomes restricted by bureaucracy and hierarchy. While certain information requires delicate handling, maximizing knowledge and insights sharing among teams helps build internal trust and collectively solve intricate problems.
Leaders must set aside ego and cultivate open communication within their organizations. At HackerOne, we promote accountability through weekly company-wide Ask Me Anything (AMA) sessions to share organizational knowledge, address tough business questions, and encourage employees to express their views openly without fear of reprisal. These avenues establish a united front of trust across departments and with leadership.
Foster obsessive vision if it builds a better world
Most hackers are self-taught enthusiasts. Young and lacking formal cybersecurity training, they are propelled by a passion for their craft. Internal drive compels them to continuously seek out what others overlook. The same drive can be seen in the exceptional leaders I’ve encountered and the prominent figures who have shaped the tech industry.
Every significant invention, project, or initiative has fostered unity and determination in its workforce towards a brighter future. There’s a heightened motivation when your culture aligns with a mission bigger than the products you offer. It’s the leader’s responsibility to always ask: “What is the ultimate goal here? What is your team, department, and organization striving towards?”
Steve Jobs’ unwavering vision for the iPhone compelled his team to think beyond conventional boundaries. His steadfastness resulted in a product that revolutionized how we communicate and engage with the world around us.
So, next time you seek inspiration, don’t overlook the unexpected sources — because often, that’s where the most valuable insights reside. With dedication, like a hacker, you too can build a more resilient company and future.
Chris Evans is CISO and chief hacking officer at HackerOne.
