So you’ve made up your mind and decided to get a cybersecurity job. A wise choice considering this is a career with a lot to offer, especially now that remote working is the new normal and organizations (big and small) struggle to create safe remote work environments and keep their data safe. 

At this point, you probably already researched or even enrolled in the best cybersecurity training you can get. You started reading and watching online videos about entering the field. You are considering different career paths and figuring out which one is the best choice for you… and most likely, you are facing the big question: how can I land my first job?

To make it easier for you, we came up with 4 actionable tips that will help you transition more smoothly and understand what you will face when entering the stage of applying for different job opportunities at different organizations.  

1- Become Fluent in Technical Language 

When facing a recruiter for a cybersecurity job, you must show them you understand what you are talking about and dominate the key industry terminology, even the acronyms. It is unacceptable for a candidate not to know what terms like virtual private network, exploit, breach, firewall, etc. Before you start sharing your resume and scheduling interviews, take time to study and develop a deep understanding of the cybersecurity language. 

2- Get Certified 

We have mentioned this in the past; cybersecurity certifications are the perfect way of demonstrating to any employer that you have subject matter knowledge, having them in your resume will help you stand out from your competition, they will show your level of commitment, and, for those who are not yet convinced, many hiring managers consider them as the minimum required qualifications. 

3- Stay Informed of Emerging Trends 

Cybersecurity is a field that is constantly evolving. Part of your job would be to prevent any possible cyber-attacks. To do so, you first need to understand that hackers are always looking for new ways to hack into networks, software, and hardware. You can learn a lot by reading about the most recent hacks and defense measures. You can use that information when you are having an interview for a cybersecurity job. You can show them that you are a constant learner, committed to investigations, and staying in the know of the latest trends around the world. Comment about some of the sources you regularly read: cybersecurity websites, blogs, authors.

4- Start Working on Your Network 

Just as you would do for any other job, start growing your network related to the field. Look for old classmates or anyone you know who works in the field, connect with them on social media, chat with them, grab a coffee with them (keep social distancing measures, please), and ask them about your doubts about getting started in the field, or any other thing that will help become a successful professional. You could even consider them your mentor. Try reaching out to different people with different roles to talk with them to understand the field better you want to get into it. 

As a final thought, spend some time working on your resume, so it stands out from the pack. There are many job openings in this field, but recruiters are picky with whom they hire for a security role. Dedicate yourself to work on your technical skills, like certifications and pieces of training, but do not forget your soft skills: learn how to communicate non-technical things, how to pay closer attention to details, and how to be more skeptical.  

The COVID-19 Pandemic and remote working have demonstrated the growing need for cybersecurity professionals for all organizations (from small businesses to large corporations and government offices). While data reflects a rise in job opportunities, there is also evidence that businesses are looking to hire people that can carry out different cybersecurity roles – sort of a cybersecurity utility infielder. The right candidate must have a combination of experience, technology skills, and business and interpersonal skills.

We researched different recruiting sites to learn what are the most in-demand jobs posted so far this year. We then drew a direct link between those jobs and what skills and training you should get to qualify for these jobs. 

1- Information Security Analyst 

A Security or Cybersecurity Analyst’s main task is to plan and carry out security measures to protect the organization’s computer network and systems. Daily security analysts have to monitor their networks for security breaches and to be able to detect and investigate if an attack passes through their controls.  These highly trained professionals also create and implement a disaster recovery plan and must stay up to date with the latest hacking trends and how to prevent them. 

Most job openings for this role require candidates to have certifications such as CISSP, SANS/GIAC Certification, CISA, CISM, and CompTIA Security+.

According to Cyberseek.org, there are currently 28,758 job openings in the US.

2- Penetration Testers 

Penetration testing professionals help organizations find vulnerabilities and weaknesses in their networks and systems before hackers do. A penetration tester must plan and create penetration methods, scripts, and tests that simulate security breaches. Subsequently, they present their findings, educate others about the risks and impact of any possible attack, and carry the larger responsibility of recommending methods to fix and improve the organization’s security systems.

Most job openings for this role request candidates to have certifications such as CEH, CCNA, CISSP, CISA, CISM, and CompTIA Security+. 

According to Cyberseek.org, there are currently 13,647 job openings in the US. 

3- Cybersecurity Architects 

This senior-level position is responsible for planning, designing, testing, and implementing an organization’s security infrastructure. Anyone in this role needs to have an excellent understanding of the business and organization they are working in and the technology they are using to create an effective security infrastructure. A good cybersecurity architect thinks like a hacker thinks like a business executive, and has an IT executive’s technical skills.

Most job openings for this role request candidates to have certifications such as CISSP, CISM, SANS/GIAC Certification, CISA, ITL.

According to Cyberseek.org, there are currently 5,927 job openings in the US.

4- Cybersecurity Engineers 

Cyber Engineers are in charge of developing and implementing high-tech solutions to protect their organization from cyber-attacks (hacking, ransomware, data breach, etc.) Among their many responsibilities are to constantly monitor systems and software to identify threats and vulnerabilities, troubleshoot problems, respond to any security breach, and enable the appropriate security controls.

Most job openings for this role request candidates to have certifications such as CISSP, CEH, GIAC certifications.

According to Cyberseek.org, there are currently 52,932  job openings in the US. 

Clearly, cybersecurity is a growing field with tens of thousands of job openings. But to succeed in the cybersecurity world, you need to commit yourself to get the right training and experience, keep learning daily, and upskill your interpersonal and business side. 

Are you ready to start?