With cybersecurity becoming an increasingly important industry, it is no surprise that more and more people are looking to enter the field. (ISC)² recently held its first webinar to promote an open dialogue and space for those leaning toward a career in cybersecurity, career changers and anyone interested in joining the field. For those looking to step into a cybersecurity career, here are some helpful tips and resources:
Build Your Cyber Network: Start on social media, reach out to those in your existing circle who work in the field, and make a post showing your interest along with your training goals. Check out the (ISC)² Community for engagement opportunities, volunteer opportunities, and more. When you’re ready to step out from behind the keyboard, find and join your local cybersecurity meetups.
Work Your Way in the Door: Research companies that you are interested in working for and find a position that fits your current skillset. Use your position to progress into cyber while you continue your cyber education. Internal recruitment is utilized for filling entry- and junior-level cybersecurity roles by 18% of hiring managers surveyed.
The More Traditional Route: Most Human Resources departments do still seek to fill their entry-level cybersecurity roles via staffing and recruitment agencies and from applications submitted to them directly. Be sure you are highlighting your transferable skills in your resume and don’t be shy to include in-progress trainings.
Entry-level Job Titles and Tasks: Entry-level cybersecurity job roles include security analyst, security specialist, security architect, security auditor, forensic specialist/analyst, junior penetration tester, security engineer, IT auditor, IT security manager, and systems administrator. Common tasks include alert and threat monitoring, documenting processes and procedures, using scripting languages, incident response, and reporting.
Free Training and Scholarships: (ISC)² offers free training and a free exam for those interested in earning the entry-level Certified in Cybersecurity certification via the One Million in Cyber initiative. The Center for Cyber Safety and Education, the charitable arm of (ISC)², encourages and supports students pursuing a degree with a focus on cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field.
Upcoming Events and Opportunities: (ISC)² will be hosting webinars on March 13, April 19, and May 5 to discuss career opportunities in cybersecurity, available training tools, what to expect on exam day, and more. For more on how to find your way into a cyber career, visit the (ISC)² website.
Key Points:
• Build your cybersecurity community through social media and local meetups.
• Utilize internal recruitment for entry- and junior-level roles.
• Highlight transferable skills in your resume and include in-progress trainings.
• Look for entry-level job titles such as security analyst, security specialist, and security engineer.
• (ISC)² offers free training and a free exam for those interested in earning the entry-level Certified in Cybersecurity certification.
• The Center for Cyber Safety and Education offers scholarships for students pursuing a degree with a focus on cybersecurity, information assurance, or a similar field.
• (ISC)² will be hosting webinars on March 13, April 19, and May 5 to discuss career opportunities in cybersecurity and available training tools.