EP 59: Five things to know before you get into cybersecurity

https://www.yourcyberpath.com/59

About This Episode

In this episode, we learn about the five things you should know before getting a job in the cybersecurity industry.

First, we discussed what the reality is in terms of entry-level cybersecurity jobs. Even entry-level cybersecurity roles require previous experience in a related position. These include network administrator, system administrator, or auditor, and show employers you are ready to move into cybersecurity. Unlike many industries, there is no direct entry-level positions in cybersecurity, and this can confuse a lot of people and make it difficult to get their career started. To land an entry-level cybersecurity position, you will need extra knowledge and expertise before you can get hired.

Second, we discussed the relative importance of a cybersecurity degree in landing your first cybersecurity position. Contrary to popular belief, a higher-level education without any matching experience is not the key to landing your first position. In fact, in most cases, certifications are more likely to help you land an interview than a degree.

Third, we discussed the importance of experience in landing your first position. As a hiring manager, the three things that are evaluated are your experience, certifications, and degrees, in that order. We also discussed some ways for you to gain experience even if you haven’t landed your first position, yet.

Fourth, we discussed some realistic salary expectations for you to have when looking for your first cybersecurity position. Many new entrants to the cybersecurity industry have misguided expectations of the salary they can command in their first position. When determining your initial salary, employers will consider your experience, certifications, and degrees, as well as the location of the corporate headquarters, your local office, or your home office when making an offer.

Finally, we discussed some different jobs that exist in the cybersecurity industry world that go beyond penetration testing. For some reason, most new entrants to the cybersecurity industry believe that penetration testing is the only cybersecurity role, but that simply isn’t true. In the final part of this episode, Jason and Kip discuss some of their favorite cybersecurity roles that people can find as they enter the industry.

* There are no real entry-level cybersecurity jobs

* A cybersecurity bachelor or master’s degree is not essential to getting hired

* You must have some experience to land your first position

* You need to have realistic salary expectations

* There are more than just penetration testing roles in cybersecurity

 

What You’ll Learn

·     A more realistic view of the cybersecurity industry

·     What to expect in a typical cybersecurity role

·     What things hiring managers consider in hiring a candidate

·     How your salary is determined for a position

·     How to best position yourself to land your first role in the industry

Relevant websites for this Episode

Your Cyber Path (https://www.yourycberpath.com)