Cybersecurity experts are in high demand as private, public and government sectors scramble to secure their systems and data in the wake of widespread cyber attacks. Industry analysts project that cybercrime will cost the world $6 trillion annually this year. There is such demand for cybersecurity professionals that research shows Information Security Analyst as among the technology jobs currently, based on salary, employment rate, growth, stress, work-life balance and job prospects. Due to the high demand and the many perks that are being offered to professionals with the right combination of education and experience, there has never been a better time to start a career in cybersecurity.
What makes cyber security different from some other IT careers is the need for a skillset that includes communication, problem-solving, and leadership. That’s because the most vulnerable point to attack IT security and computer security is usually the person sitting in front of the keyboard! So, while technical skills are useful, the ability to influence human behaviour is equally important.
Earning a degree in cybersecurity is often the first step toward starting a career in this lucrative and in-demand field. And if you have a degree and experience in information security, the options are plentiful and diverse. Most prospective cybersecurity leaders start with an undergraduate degree in information technology, information systems and/or computer science. After obtaining an undergraduate degree and gaining experience in the field, a master’s degree in cybersecurity operations and leadership or information technology is the next step toward expanding your career opportunities and increasing your appeal to employers hiring for higher-level positions.
You can take the leadership and operations route, in which a diverse skill set and a passion for lifelong learning are required. In this role, you must possess strong leadership capabilities and have a thorough understanding of information technology systems and processes, as well as advanced cybersecurity skills and knowledge. Job options include Chief Information Security Officer, Information Security Analyst, Global Information Security Director, Cybersecurity Consultant, Lead Software Security Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, Cybersecurity Engineer, Network Administrator,Cybersecurity Analyst, Cybersecurity Specialist, and Security Auditor.
There is also the cybersecurity engineering route best suited to those who have engineering experience and are interested in learning how to build secure systems in order to eliminate threats. Information security engineers with a good understanding of what it means to build a secure system may find jobs as Lead Software Security Engineer, Cybersecurity Architect, and Cybersecurity Engineer.
To land a job in cybersecurity, you might also want to consider earning industry certification in a specific area or subject matter that you are interested in. Some of the most popular and sought-after cybersecurity industry certifications include CompTIA Security+, CISSP (Certified Information Systems Security Professional), CISM (Certified Information Security Manager), CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor), GIAC (Global Information Assurance Certification), and CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker). In addition, there are many vendor-specific certifications, such as those offered through Cisco, RSA and Symantec that are attractive to employers. What you will need and what employers will require depends upon the role or roles that you are targeting. Keep in mind that an extensive list of credentials might not be essential; for entry-level jobs, you can use your credentials and talent. It’s also important to show initiative because employers like self starters. Look into numerous books and courses on cyber-related skills that can enhance your resume, like reverse engineering malware and tracking malicious activities on the internet. Employers want those that have basic skills with the potential to become proficient cybersecurity engineers and investigators through self-study and team-led reinforcement of those principles.
Keep your options open because many jobs in cybersecurity are technical, but some aren’t technical at all. The industry needs people with a wide variety of skills like communication, interpersonal, leadership, investigatory, and business understanding. The truly difficult challenges in cybersecurity relate to the leadership of and collaboration between people, and on the most strategic level, it’s about risk management.
Networking is important in almost every industry, and cybersecurity is no exception. While online networking is great, in-person networking is even better. Try getting involved in meetups, attending conferences, and asking current security professionals for advice. You should get to know as many people in the industry as you can by getting involved in open source or community projects.
