Having the right cybersecurity qualifications can help you land your career in no time. Not to mention that the demand is growing, while the supply of qualified experts is lacking.
So how can you promote yourself in the cybersecurity field? How can you develop strong cybersecurity qualifications?
According to Cybersecurity Ventures, cybersecurity will have 3.5 million unfilled jobs by the end of 2021. In addition, a study shows that the field had a 0% unemployment rate since 2011.
How to Get Started in Cybersecurity
Many land a career in cybersecurity by earning a bachelor’s degree, then a master’s degree. On the other hand, some others started by self-learning.
Whichever is your case, now is the best time to land a career in the field.
The best qualification to get started is neither a diploma nor a certificate. To be a good cybersecurity expert, you have to be continuously curious and eager to learn.
Apply for a Job
If you have the basic qualifications and there is a vacancy in some sector, apply.
What about the degrees?
Know that even today’s largest companies do not require degrees anymore. As long as you have both the skills and the passion, you are good to go.
How to Boost Cybersecurity Qualifications?
Consider some tips below.
1. Join the Cybersecurity Community
Perhaps you can join local meetup groups in cybersecurity. These groups, for instance, cater to both seasoned and newbies in cybersecurity.
Most often, employers want to know whether applicants actively join cybersecurity events or not. Also, it can help you widen your network, which can help you embrace a career with like-minded ones.
2. Research and Research
Research the company you are applying for and the job position they are hiring. For example, you can do so by researching the company on Google, Linked In, or Shodan.
3. Stay Updated
Cybersecurity is a changing field. What works today may not work the same way tomorrow. Hence, keeping yourself updated is essential.
Stay ahead with the latest trends and practices. Perhaps you can opt to subscribe to cybersecurity newsletters and articles. Some prefer weekly podcasts and blogs.
Whichever is your preference, make sure to keep yourself on top of the trends.
4. Let your Resume Attract
Your resume speaks a lot of who you are and your skills. So make sure that it contains the areas of interest that the job posting is calling. At least, avoid any unnecessary information.
For example, make sure to have the following areas:
- Introduction
- Relevant work experience
- Professional memberships, publications, and certifications
- Technical skills
5. Develop Hard Skills
A cybersecurity’s hard skills may involve the following, for example:
- Coding or scripting skills
- The fundamentals of technology
6. Develop Soft Skills
Any work or profession isn’t only about technicalities. While you can learn technical skills over time, most often, soft skills weigh greater.
For example:
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
- Leadership skills
- Organization skills
7. Demonstrate Practical Experience
A professional experience is not necessary. Perhaps you can show up any projects and skills you learned over time. But, of course, make sure it is relevant to cybersecurity.
8. Be Professional
Make sure to make a good impression on your interview. So dress up appropriately and act professionally.
