Unlocking the Secrets to Breaking into the Lucrative Field of Cybersecurity
Experts in cybersecurity recruiting and executive roles have shared invaluable advice on entering the highly sought-after realm of cybersecurity. In a landscape where cybersecurity jobs are in high demand, the industry’s youthfulness and constantly shifting risks can present challenges for securing entry-level positions.
Certifications such as CISSP and CompTIA Security+ come highly recommended by cybersecurity professionals as essential steps for aspiring individuals looking to carve a path in this field that offers lucrative pay and stability amidst the dynamic tech industry.
Considering a career in cybersecurity but unsure where to begin? While opportunities in cybersecurity are abundant, breaking into the field can be a daunting task due to its relatively short history. According to Jon France, Chief Information Security Officer at ISC2, the industry’s youthfulness can make it tricky to attract talent and fill positions.
The ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity threats requires professionals to stay abreast of the latest tactics utilized by malicious actors. This constant evolution also contributes to the scarcity of entry-level positions, making internships and other avenues for newcomers challenging to secure.
To address the shortage of cybersecurity professionals, some companies have developed in-house training programs to upskill junior staff. However, smaller organizations with limited cybersecurity departments may face challenges in implementing such initiatives.
Recruiters and executives in the cybersecurity sector emphasize the importance of hands-on experience over formal education, with some suggesting that college degrees may not be necessary for entering the field. MK Palmore from Google Cloud’s office of the CISO highlights the significance of practical experience, which can be challenging for newcomers to obtain.
While many newcomers aspire to roles in cloud testing, incident response, or cybersecurity analysis, industry experts recommend starting in less glamorous areas such as IT support or help desk technician roles. Additionally, diverse backgrounds in IT, network security, systems administration, military service, or incident response can serve as valuable entry points into cybersecurity.
For successful navigation of the cybersecurity career path, developing core skills in network engineering is crucial. Understanding network operations and system integrations are fundamental for effectively defending against cyber threats.
In conclusion, while there is no one-size-fits-all approach to breaking into cybersecurity, gaining hands-on experience and exploring diverse paths can pave the way for a fulfilling career in this high-growth industry.
Jenkins expressed concern about college graduates entering the IT field and facing a plethora of unfamiliar apps, highlighting a gap between their training and real-world challenges. Cybersecurity certifications serve as a means to validate a candidate’s expertise in a specific area through online or in-person exams. These certifications can be obtained through self-study, boot camps, or university programs that incorporate them into the curriculum. While acquiring certifications may be costly for new candidates, it is seen as a valuable investment in enhancing skills. Employers often prioritize candidates with certifications like CompTIA Security+ and Certified Information System Security Professional, which demonstrate a deep understanding of system integration. Additionally, Certified Information Security Manager is recognized as a “gold standard” for showcasing technical proficiency. Some cybersecurity professionals believe that the technical aspects of the job can be learned over time, emphasizing the importance of fostering a learning mindset in the industry. In light of the evolving nature of cybersecurity, hiring managers are seeking transferable skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and communication to complement the rise of AI technology. A survey of cybersecurity professionals revealed that many hiring managers lack clarity on the skills required to thrive in an AI-driven environment. This uncertainty has led to a shift towards prioritizing adaptable skills that can support AI adoption rather than solely focusing on technical competencies. For those interested in cybersecurity, connecting with the author via a non-work email at aaltchek@businessinsider.com is encouraged.
