15 pointers to help you launch your career in cyber security

The sophistication and targeting of cyber threats are rising. Because career in cyber security, companies must make significant investments in strong cyber security in order to safeguard workers, secure digital assets, and maintain their good name.

These techniques are the brainchild of skilled experts known as cyber security specialists, whose services are in high demand across multiple businesses. With the skills gap in cyber security still widening, this is an excellent moment to launch your career. You’ll learn what credentials, training, and experience you need to launch a successful career in cyber security with this comprehensive guide.

How do I get into cyber security?

There are plenty of options to enter the diverse profession of cyber security, ranging from entry-level positions to more advanced career pathways. Here are our best recommendations to get you started on the road to success:

Develop a solid foundation of knowledge

It’s crucial to first grasp the foundations before embarking on your cyber security adventure. Seek out opportunities to acquire knowledge about the fundamentals of computer systems, networks, and security. You’ll have the know-how and self-assurance to advance your education and profession with this solid foundation.

Take charge of your learning

You have lots of options to learn on your own terms and take charge of your own growth through self-directed learning. Use internet tools, textbooks, and online courses to your advantage to become well-versed in cyber security. Check out the variety of cyber security courses offered by FutureLearn, which are designed to provide you the tools you need to succeed in the workplace.

Gain industry-recognised certificates

Certifications assist in proving to potential employers your expertise and abilities. Keep an eye out for credentials like the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) and Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), which are respected in the cyber security field.

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Develop your practical skills

While theoretical knowledge is important, nothing prepares you for the profession like real-world experience. Look for volunteer work, internships, or online courses with hands-on learning to equip yourself with the skills employers need to succeed in your field.

Stay up-to-date with industry trends

The world of cyber security is always changing. Keep abreast of various industry developments by subscribing to podcasts, blogs, and cyber security news sites in order to stay competitive.

Build your professional connections

Expand your professional network to gain access to career and mentorship opportunities. Participate in local security gatherings, cyber security conferences, and online forums and communities by taking an active role.

Find your cyber security niche

Developing a specialty might help you stand out from the competition while applying for jobs. Choose a particular area of cyber security that piques your interest, such as cloud security, incident response, network security, or penetration testing.

Create a home learning environment

Create a space for practical study at home to aid in the future development of your practical abilities. You’ll be able to practice and refine your cyber security tool skills by doing this.

Take on personal projects

Employers can see how committed and skilled you are from your personal efforts. Developing security applications, participating in bug bounty programs, or donating to open-source security technologies are some ways to construct a portfolio.

Apply for entry-level positions

You’re prepared to apply for entry-level jobs as a security analyst, IT support expert, or junior penetration tester after solidifying your knowledge and abilities. Make sure to highlight your projects, practical experience, and certifications in your application.

Develop your coding and scripting expertise

You can grow in your career by using programming languages to learn how to perform in-depth security analysis and automate activities. Learn some of the most popular programming languages, such Python and PowerShell, so that you can handle more complex cyber security jobs.

Gain workplace-ready skills with hands-on labs

The key to cyber security is implementing your expertise in the workplace. Participate in interactive laboratories, online courses, and cyber challenges provided by websites such as Hack The Box, TryHackMe, or OWASP Webroot to hone your practical abilities.

Hone your soft skills

It’s common for cyber security professionals to have to explain intricate cyber principles and vulnerabilities to stakeholders who aren’t technical. Try to improve your soft skills, including problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking, to achieve this.

Commit to lifelong learning

The world of cyber security is always changing. To stay competitive, keep yourself informed about new developments in cyber dangers and technology by attending webinars, workshops, online courses, and ongoing self-improvement.

Join online cyber security communities

Become involved with seasoned cyber security experts by joining online forums on sites like Reddit and LinkedIn. You can talk about job prospects, ask questions, and exchange insights.

Can you get into cyber security without a degree?

Yes, you can work in cyber security without having a formal degree. Because of the industry’s dynamic nature, practical skills, pertinent certifications, and real-world experience are highly valued.

Therefore, you don’t need a degree in a related field like computer science to succeed in a cyber security career. However, it can be helpful.

What should I specialise in within cyber security?

Your areas of interest should guide your choice of niche. Discover whatever niche most interests you by gaining real-world experience in fields such as network security, incident response, cloud security, and other areas.

Are coding skills necessary for a career in cyber security?

Coding knowledge is not required, however it will enable you automate processes and carry out in-depth security analysis. Consequently, knowing how to use Python and PowerShell can improve your skills and help you stand out from the competition.

What are the soft skills that matter in cyber security?

Cybersecurity experts frequently have to educate non-technical people on complicated cyber issues. Consequently, you can use soft skills like excellent communication to help others in the business understand the significance of cyber security.

It’s also possible that your job will require you to make snap decisions under duress, so having the ability to think critically and solve problems would be helpful.

How can I prepare for the future of cyber security?

The field of cyber security is always evolving due to developments in technology and shifting threats. You must create an adaptable and proactive security strategy to meet future demands if you want to be best prepared for this.

Use online courses to embrace lifelong learning, adjust to new situations, and keep abreast of the ever-changing environment.

Develop your cyber security skills with FutureLearn

With a profession in cyber security, you can safeguard a company’s digital assets and help it succeed. If you’re prepared to embark on your career as a cyber security specialist, check out our selection of cyber security courses to help you acquire skills that employers will value. This is where your new career journey begins. To get started, look into these courses on cyber security.