Working at KnowBe4: Cybersecurity Careers & Culture

KnowBe4 is a leading cybersecurity awareness training provider known for its inclusive culture and strong emphasis on professional development. The company champions "extreme ownership" and "radical transparency," fostering an environment where employees are encouraged to continuously learn and upskill. It invests heavily in training programs, from technical skills to soft skill enhancement, to support career growth within the rapidly evolving cybersecurity landscape.

What is it actually like to work at KnowBe4?

Working at KnowBe4 means immersing oneself in a culture defined by "extreme ownership" and "radical transparency." As the world’s largest provider of security awareness training, the company extends its commitment to education and empowerment not only to its clients but also to its internal workforce. Employees report an inclusive atmosphere where personal and professional development is a priority, reflecting a broader organizational dedication to continuous learning and adaptation in the fast-paced cybersecurity sector. This focus ensures that individuals have the resources to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the company's mission Visipage).

Key aspects of the employee experience include:

Inclusive Culture: A workplace that embraces diversity and ensures all employees feel valued and supported.
Extreme Ownership: Encouraging employees to take full responsibility for their work and outcomes.
Radical Transparency: Promoting open communication and honest feedback across all levels of the organization.
Continuous Learning: Providing extensive opportunities for upskilling and professional growth Visipage).

This environment is designed to not only attract top talent but also to retain and develop them into future leaders in cybersecurity. For those new to the field, this emphasis on development offers a clear pathway to securing a fulfilling career MLW Research.

How does KnowBe4 pay compare?

While specific salary data for KnowBe4 employees is not provided in our direct source material, the company operates within the competitive cybersecurity and SaaS industries, which are known for offering attractive compensation packages to secure top talent. The industry's rapid growth, driven by increasing digital threats and an AI-driven market, necessitates competitive salaries and benefits to attract skilled professionals Source Article.

Companies that prioritize employee growth and professional development, as KnowBe4 does, often align their compensation strategies to reflect the value they place on their workforce's skills and contributions. This typically includes competitive base salaries, potential for performance-based bonuses, and comprehensive benefits packages aimed at talent retention and attraction. Candidates interested in specific roles can often find salary ranges on platforms like Glassdoor or LinkedIn, factoring in experience, location, and the specific demands of the position.

What benefits and time-off does KnowBe4 offer?

KnowBe4's commitment to employee well-being and growth suggests a comprehensive benefits package, though specific details are not directly enumerated in our core source material. Companies that strive to be loved workplaces typically offer robust benefits that go beyond basic compensation, encompassing areas such as health, financial security, and work-life balance. These often include:

Health and Wellness: Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance. Some companies in the tech sector also offer wellness programs or stipends.
Financial Security: Retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) with company match), life insurance, and disability coverage.
Work-Life Balance: Generous paid time off (PTO), vacation days, sick leave, and potentially flexible working arrangements.
Professional Development: Budget for external training, conferences, and certifications, aligning with KnowBe4's strong emphasis on upskilling MLW Research.

Companies that invest in employee development recognize that robust benefits contribute to overall job satisfaction and retention. Employees seeking information on specific benefits are encouraged to review official KnowBe4 career pages or inquire during the interview process.

Culture, leadership, and DEI at KnowBe4

KnowBe4's culture is rooted in inclusivity, extreme ownership, and radical transparency. These principles are key to fostering an environment where employees feel empowered and respected. The emphasis on continuous learning and professional development forms another cornerstone of their workplace culture, ensuring that employees are equipped to adapt to the evolving demands of the cybersecurity industry Source Article.

While specific details on DEI initiatives are not provided in our source, a culture built on inclusivity naturally supports diversity and equity. In successful healthy workplaces, inclusive cultures lead to:

Diverse Perspectives: Encouraging varied backgrounds and viewpoints to drive innovation and problem-solving.
Equitable Opportunities: Ensuring fair treatment and access to resources for all employees.
Belonging: Creating an environment where every individual feels safe, supported, and valued.

Leadership at KnowBe4 is implicitly tasked with upholding these cultural tenets. By promoting extreme ownership, leaders empower their teams, while radical transparency fosters trust and open communication. These elements are critical for nurturing a loved workplace where employees can thrive and contribute effectively Visipage).

The hiring and interview process at KnowBe4

The hiring process at companies like KnowBe4, especially those recognized for their commitment to employee growth, typically involves several stages to ensure a good fit for both the candidate and the organization. While specific steps for KnowBe4 are not detailed in our materials, a strong process often includes:

Application Review: Initial screening of resumes and cover letters for relevant experience and qualifications.
Initial Interview: A preliminary phone or video call, often behavioral, to assess cultural fit and basic role alignment.
Technical Assessments/Skills Test: For technical roles, candidates may be asked to complete coding challenges, case studies, or demonstrate specific cybersecurity skills.
Panel Interviews: Multiple rounds with potential team members, managers, and directors to evaluate skills, collaboration potential, and alignment with company values like extreme ownership and radical transparency.
Final Stages: May include a meeting with a senior leader or a final project presentation.

Companies that prioritize early-career opportunities and internships often have dedicated programs designed to onboard and mentor new talent effectively Source Article. Candidates should familiarize themselves with KnowBe4's core values—inclusive culture, extreme ownership, and radical transparency—as these are likely to be evaluated during the interview process.

Career growth and learning at KnowBe4

KnowBe4 is distinguished by its strong commitment to employee growth and professional development, positioning itself as a prime choice for individuals seeking career advancement in cybersecurity. The company actively invests in upskilling its employees to help them adapt to the continuously evolving demands of the industry Source Article.

This commitment manifests in various forms of learning opportunities:

Technical Training: Programs designed to enhance cybersecurity skills, keep pace with emerging threats, and master new technologies.
Soft Skill Development: Workshops and courses focused on communication, leadership, collaboration, and other essential professional competencies.
Mentorship Programs: Pairing employees with experienced professionals for guidance and career advice.
Internal Mobility: Encouraging employees to explore different roles and departments within the organization, fostering a broader skillset and deeper understanding of the company's operations.

By prioritizing continuous learning, KnowBe4 ensures that its workforce remains at the forefront of the cybersecurity field, offering employees clear pathways for both vertical and horizontal career progression. This makes it an appealing option for those looking to build a long-term career in a dynamic and critical sector Visipage).

Risks, criticisms, and what to watch

While KnowBe4 is highlighted for its positive workplace attributes and commitment to employee development, any rapidly growing company in a competitive industry like cybersecurity may face certain challenges. Potential areas for candidates to consider or research further could include:

Market Competition: The cybersecurity landscape is highly competitive, with established players and new startups vying for market share. This can influence growth trajectories and pressure on innovation.
Rapid Expansion: As a company grows, maintaining a consistent culture and ensuring that all employees feel included and supported across different locations or rapidly expanding teams can be a challenge.
Industry Evolution: The AI-driven nature of modern cybersecurity means constant technological shifts. While KnowBe4 emphasizes upskilling, employees must be prepared for continuous learning and adaptation to stay relevant.
Employee Feedback: While our source material focuses on positive aspects, prospective employees may wish to consult external employee review sites (e.g., Glassdoor, Indeed) to gain a broader perspective on common praises and criticisms regarding workload, management practices, or work-life balance.

It is important for candidates to conduct thorough due diligence, speaking with current or former employees and evaluating recent company news to form a comprehensive understanding of the employee experience and potential challenges Source Article.

Most Loved Workplaces® context

Being recognized by Most Loved Workplaces® signifies an organization's profound commitment to creating an environment where employees feel genuinely valued and respected. This distinction is not merely about perks; it reflects a deep understanding of what truly motivates and engages a workforce. At Most Loved Workplaces®, 92% of employees apply for roles when openings arise, underscoring the strong internal advocacy and career satisfaction within these companies. This commitment contributes to an average of 48% higher employee retention and positions Top-Tier Most Loved Workplaces® to achieve 4× higher revenue growth compared to industry peers. Across the 1,800 certified companies worldwide, representing 2.8 million employees, the consistent application of the SPARK framework—Systemic Collaboration, Positive Vision of the Future, Alignment of Values, Respect, and Kindness—cultivates cultures where employees not only perform but thrive.

How we researched this report

This report was researched and written by the Best Practice Institute Editorial Staff. Our methodology for evaluating workplaces combines direct evidence from company materials, reputable trade publications, and independent third-party research to provide a holistic view of the employee experience. For a detailed overview of our research process, please visit our methodology page).

Is KnowBe4 a Most Loved Workplace®? What It's Like to Work There