Five Essential Steps To Land Your First Cyber Security Job

CEO and cofounder of Cyber Leadership Institute, a fast-growing community of cyberleaders from more than 50 countries.

As cyberattacks intensify, so does the demand for cybersecurity professionals. According to the 2023 Cyber Security Workforce Study by ISC2, one of the largest cyber security associations, roughly 4 million cybersecurity experts are needed worldwide.

Predictably, an increasing number of recent graduates and midlife career changers are seeking to break into this booming sector, lured by promises of six-figure salaries and flexible work arrangements. But landing a cyber security job feels like a distant dream for most hopefuls.

Here are five tips to improve your chances of landing a cybersecurity job.

1. Sharpen your analytical skills through online cyber games.

Participating in capture-the-flag (CTF) cyber security contests is a fantastic way to show initiative and sharpen your analytical skills. These online competitions provide safe spaces for cyber enthusiasts to outthink and outwit their peers by probing systems for weaknesses and fending off adversarial attacks.

One of the most popular hacking competitions happens at DEFCON, a technology summit where more than 6,000 hackers and security professionals gather annually in Las Vegas. CTF contests can sharpen your analytical, cyber defense and problem-solving skills, further isolating you from the competition.

Immersing yourself in a group of like-minded peers will reinvigorate your passion and broaden your network. I believe it is becoming increasingly important that your resume shows capture-the-flag achievements to demonstrate your practical understanding of cyber defense tactics.

You should find a hacking contest commensurate with your technical knowledge and work up as your confidence and skills improve. Google, for example, offers a range of high-quality hacking challenges for beginners and seasoned professionals.

2. Get your hands dirty.

Have you ever wondered why most cybersecurity professionals hail from networking, systems administration or coding backgrounds? Because cyber security is all about protecting systems. The deeper your IT knowledge, the higher your chances of excelling in cyber security in the same way a doctor who deeply understands human anatomy is more likely to give a better prognosis.

Reference YouTube videos to set up a simple home network. Once you have verified connectivity between your servers and client machines, intentionally install vulnerable applications and practice ethical hacking techniques. Tinkering with tech improves your IT, vulnerability discovery and cyber defense skills, differentiating yourself from your academic counterparts.

3. Get certified.

Cybersecurity certifications equip you with cyber risk management fundamentals and demonstrate a commitment to learn and keep up to date with the rapidly evolving cybersecurity industry. According to ISC2, 70% of U.S.-based cybersecurity professionals are required to have a certification by their employers.

Choosing which certificate to pursue can be tricky, though, given the number of them. Your aspirations and professional background must inform the path you take. If you aspire to become a penetration tester, for example, a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) or GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) may be most relevant. However, a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) may be most suitable if you want to pursue a career in cyber security governance.

4. Stop trying to cut corners.

Consider alternative paths if you have been applying for cyber roles without luck. Apply for a systems administrator, IT audit, technology risk or any other role whose skills are transferable to cyber security.

After a couple of years, I’ve seen how switching over to cyber security becomes much easier. Once you step into that intermediate role, show up with heart and establish yourself as the go-to person in that department. Organize coffee catchups with your cyber security colleagues and connect with them personally. Learn about their roles, key challenges and the best parts of their jobs. This will help you identify a niche aligned with your passion. When a new cyber role opens, they will likely think of you first.

5. Network your way into interviews.

People generally prefer to hire those they know, like and trust. Your networks will ultimately prove more valuable than any degrees or professional certs you might hold.

Most cyber security professional associations like ISC2 and ISACA have vibrant grassroots chapters. RI recommends that you regularly attend local cyber security meetups and develop professional relationships that could lead to your first cyber security breakthrough.

Raise your visibility by volunteering to organize events or pick up other administrative functions. According to a study, volunteers have a 27% better chance of finding a job than those who don’t. Once you have cemented professional bonds, politely ask some contacts to pass your resume to their human resources. Internal recommendations carry enormous weight.

Looking Forward

Cybersecurity has evolved greatly over the last decade. It’s no longer a secluded space for geeks in hoodies toiling from their basements. It’s now a critical function that powers business survival. To stand out, you must proactively cultivate a blend of technical, critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

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