More and more organizations are turning to technological solutions to perform key functions. This has played a role in the cyber security industry’s boom. Companies what to protect themselves from cyber attacks.
With the explosion of opportunities in the industry, there’s not enough qualified workers. This means it’s the perfect time to begin a career in the industry, which is financially lucrative and offers plenty of opportunities to progress. Read more in this blog by TRS staffing. With that said, below are four ways to get started in the industry:
- Identify Your Transferable Skills
You don’t have to have cyber security experience to get your foot through the door. However, many people do enter the industry from jobs that required similar skills. This includes information analysis and systems administrations.
If you can link your past experience and existing experience to the industry, then you should be able to get your foot through the door. Having transferable skills is a great way to land interviews and jobs.
Let’s not forget to mention that entry-level positions are plentiful. Some of these positions include junior penetration testers or account executives. Such jobs allow you to learn along the way.
However, it’s always good to have past experience. This is why you should considering going into a volunteer position or an internship. Asides from that, you can volunteer to help your employer’s IT department, when you have extra time on your hands.
- Free Ways To Learn About The Cyber Security Industry
You should take the time to learn as much as you can about the industry. Don’t worry because there are free ways to do this, such as looking at blogs that cover cyber security. Two good blogs include Brian Krebs and Troy Hunt’s. Just make sure the blogs you decide to check out are providing their visitors with up-to-date info, as this will be the most beneficial for you.
It’s also worth following IT experts on social media. Many experts provide great advice. Plus, you can ask them questions you may have about the industry.
- Connect With Other Professionals
Another good way to get your foot into the door is by meeting people who work in the industry. Joining sites such as LinkedIn can be useful for this. However, you should try to go to in-person networking events.
A good starting point is going to conferences. There are many events across the country you can attend too. Such events hosts workshops, have speakers and allow you the chance to network.
Find out if there are cyber security professionals work in your company. You don’t want to harass them while they’re on lunch. Instead, just conduct well-timed questions. This could provide you the opportunity to receive good advice.
In short, try to get to know professionals on a personal level. Doing so can give you a leg-up when an opening pops up in the IT department.
- Gain Qualifications
If you want to gain a competitive advantage over other prospective employees, then become qualified. The qualifications you should get depends on your chosen career. If you don’t know what path to go down yet, then don’t worry because all you should do is find a course that covers general subjects relevant to cyber security. There’s no shortage of these types of courses you can take.
You can even enroll in a one-day course. Such courses will provide you with a good foundation. Also, take part in group discussions with experts in the industry, either within your organization or via social media. Doing these two things can provide you with incredible insights.
