A diverse cybersecurity workforce brings varied perspectives, skills, and insights, enhancing innovation and adaptability. It strengthens defenses by addressing complex threats and fostering a more inclusive, resilient digital environment. 

In an era dominated by digital technologies and interconnected systems, the importance of a career in cybersecurity cannot be overstated. As we increasingly rely on the internet for communication, commerce, and information sharing, the need to safeguard our digital assets and sensitive data becomes paramount. Cybersecurity professionals play a critical role in defending individuals, organizations, and governments against the growing threat of cyberattacks.

One of the primary reasons why a career in cybersecurity is essential is the pervasive nature of cyber threats. Malicious actors, ranging from individual hackers to organized cybercrime syndicates and even nation-states, constantly seek to exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems and networks. These threats encompass a wide range of activities, including data breaches, ransomware attacks, identity theft, and intellectual property theft. Cybersecurity experts are at the forefront of developing and implementing strategies to detect, prevent, and respond to these threats, thereby safeguarding the integrity and confidentiality of digital information.

The increasing digitization of critical infrastructure further underscores the significance of cybersecurity. Industries such as finance, healthcare, energy, and transportation rely heavily on computerized systems to operate efficiently. A breach in the security of these systems could have catastrophic consequences, including financial losses, disruption of services, and even threats to public safety. Cybersecurity professionals work to fortify these critical systems, ensuring their resilience against cyber threats and minimizing the potential impact of attacks.

Moreover, the evolving landscape of technology introduces new challenges that necessitate innovative cybersecurity solutions. With the advent of the Internet of Things (IoT), artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing, the attack surface for cyber threats has expanded exponentially. Cybersecurity experts must stay ahead of these technological advancements, adapting their skills and knowledge to address emerging risks. This dynamic nature of the field not only makes it intellectually stimulating but also highlights its continuous relevance in the face of evolving cyber threats.

Another aspect contributing to the importance of a career in cybersecurity is the protection of personal privacy. As individuals store an increasing amount of personal and sensitive information online, the risk of unauthorized access and misuse of this data grows. Cybersecurity professionals play a crucial role in developing and implementing measures to protect individuals’ privacy rights, ensuring that personal information remains confidential and secure.

The global interconnectedness of our digital world emphasizes the need for a collaborative and international approach to cybersecurity. Cyber threats transcend geographical boundaries, and cybercriminals often operate from locations that make prosecution challenging. Cybersecurity professionals contribute to global efforts by sharing threat intelligence, collaborating on best practices, and developing international frameworks to address cyber threats collectively.

In conclusion, a career in cybersecurity is of paramount importance in today’s digital age. Cybersecurity professionals are the guardians of our digital infrastructure, working tirelessly to protect individuals, organizations, and nations from the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats. As technology continues to advance, the demand for skilled cybersecurity experts will only intensify, making it a rewarding and vital career path for those committed to securing the digital future.

Now go for it!!

Start the job search with one or more of these skills you will need to work in cybersecurity.

 

• • Ability to reason.

• • An affinity for logic

• • Understanding of cyber security with an inquisitive mind

• • Detail oriented

• • Technology skills

• • Incident handling skills

• • Risk, governance and audit skills

• • Network and IT infrastructures

• • Investigative or forensics skills.

• • Project Management skills

Choose your path

 

Cybersecurity Architect

Cybersecurity Sales Engineers

AVERAGE SALARY: $104,090 in the USA and $133,976 in Canada

Cybersecurity Blockchain Developer

“Blockchain technology is a distributed and decentralized ledger system that can record transactions between multiple computers. Blockchain started out as the technology behind bitcoin but has popularly grown into a promising mitigation technology for cybersecurity.
Human error remains the leading cause of data breaches. Blockchain fully automates data storage hence reducing the human element in these data storage systems.”
“According to Juniper Research the damage caused by cyber-attacks in 2019 amounted to $2 trillion.”
The Cybersecurity Blockchain Developer is the person who secures digital transactions by creating systems to record and store blockchain data in a way that prevents changes or hacks. The skills required include software development, code bases, open-source projects and understanding of languages such as C++, Java, JavaScript.
A Cybersecurity Blockchain Developer is RESPONSIBLE FOR: Developing interfaces and applications using blockchain technology. The person is also responsible for designing and implementing a secure blockchain network. An ideal Blockchain Developer would be someone having outstanding knowledge of blockchain technologies and P2P networks.
AVERAGE SALARY: USA – more than $96,000 per year, Canada entry level $78,000 (can go up to $136,000), UK over 68,000 pounds; Switzerland – normal salary $180,000 per year.
MINIMUM EDUCATION:
There are two types of Blockchain developers: Blockchain software developers and Core blockchain developers. They have distinct duties. Both are involved with blockchain advancement.
SPECIAL SKILLS: There are four different categories of blockchain networks: *Public blockchains *Private blockchains *Consortium blockchains *Hybrid blockchains.
Public blockchains: Anyone with a good internet connection is allowed to send exchanges or become a validator (partake in the execution of an agreement protocol). The persons who maintain these networks and use a POS or POW algorithm are compensated financially.
Private blockchains: These are restricted. Member and validation access is confined.
Consortium blockchains: A system that is semi-private and has a controlled user group but works across different organizations.
Hybrid blockchains: These have a blend of characteristics. The activities of the chain can fluctuate depending on what segments of centralization-decentralization are used.
Julien Legrand, Security Governance Lead at NEAT writes in his blog: “No matter how it is utilized, the key component of blockchain technology is its ability to decentralize. This feature removes the single target point that can be compromised. As a result, it becomes utterly impossible to infiltrate systems or sites whose access control, data storage and network control are no longer in a single location. Therefore, blockchain may be one of the most efficient mitigation strategies for cyber threats in the coming days. Nevertheless, blockchain, just as with any other new technologies, faces many startup challenges as it undergoes the painful process of growth.”

Cyber Network Engineer

A Cybersecurity Network Engineer designs and implements new network solutions and/or improves the efficiency of current networks. Average salary USD$86,000 per year.

RESPONSIBLE FOR: Protecting systems from cyber threats including hacking attempts, malware, and bugs. The person should be able to identify existing issues and build safeguards to protect against future threats. This involves testing and configuration of hardware and software systems.

MINIMUM EDUCATION: Complete a bachelor’s degree in systems engineering or computer science. CompTIA A+ is an entry-level certification.

SPECIAL SKILLS: Analytical skills for examining computer systems and networks to identify vulnerabilities

· Attention to details

· Ability to anticipate security risks and to implement new methods to neutralize them

· Ability to quickly uncover network flaws and to fix them

· Ability to train co-workers and leaders on threats and protection protocols.

AVERAGE SALARY:

· One to four years of experience: $74,000

· Five to nine years of experience: $88,000

· Between ten and nineteen years of experience: $103,000

· More than twenty years of experience: $114,000

Cybersecurity Penetration Tester

 

Performs penetration tests on computer systems, networks, and applications. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in computer science. computing and information systems. Penetration Testers are in great demand in industries that handle high volumes of classified, personal, sensitive, or proprietary information.
Average annual salary for a Tester is USD $84,690

RESPONSIBILITIES: Penetration Testers design and plan Penetration Tests that help businesses and organizations to identify and resolve security vulnerabilities and weaknesses that affect their digital assets and computer networks. Some penetration testers work for special firms that provide penetration testing services to clients. Other penetration testers work as permanent employees as part of internal cybersecurity or information technology (IT) teams. The Tester works with other employees to improve the organization’s cyber security.

MINIMUM EDUCATION: A Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or Engineering, Cybersecurity or IT is usually enough to begin a Pen Testing career.
Working in entry-level IT, network management and network administration positions for at least one year helps to build experience.

SPECIAL SKILLS: Special soft skills needed for this position include a desire to learn, the ability to work with a team, strong verbal communication and good writing skills.
Deep knowledge of exploits and vulnerabilities, good knowledge of scripting and coding and advanced knowledge of the operating systems used in conducting their assessments are some of the hard skills needed by a penetration tester. The person should also have knowledge of Networking and Network protocols.
Major industries that employ Penetration Testers include financial services, healthcare, and government. Large numbers of penetration testers are also hired by companies in the technology sector.
In 2021 the major employers of Penetration Testers were Amazon; Paylocity (founded in 1997) and IBM (International Business Machines).

Links to Jobs in Cybersecurity

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LinkedIn

Indeed

Workopolis

Ziprecruiter

Cybersecurity jobs

Dice

 

My first interview. Keys to getting that first cybersecurity job.

Chapter 1. The first steps.

Being prepared applies to everyone.

It was my first interview and I remember clearly my dark blue pants, bright floral shirt and the big green tie. You see, I got the invitation for my interview on short notice and my wardrobe consisted of school uniforms and t-shirts. So, I asked my neighbors and friends to each lend me something to wear for my big moment. Armed with my four-inch afro, my white bobby socks and brown paper folder to hold my documents, I was ready to make my debut on the world stage

My appointment was 9.30 am and I was told to bring my resume, which I believed was a document that listed my name, address and the schools I attended. As I waited anxiously in a room filled with other young people completing forms and slowly going into smaller meeting rooms, I began to feel that I was four-inch competing for something and part of a race. Shortly after my fears were realized as I was invited into a private room and met three people who asked me so many questions that by the time it was over, I wasn’t even sure who I was. All I remember was someone saying II we have your information and we will get back to you.

Your first interview should be and can be a wonderful experience that helps you on your career path. With just a few pointers, this book can guide you through some of the pitfalls of interviews and put you one step ahead of the people who are vying for the same position.

Our guide covers the do’s and don’ts of the interview process and can provide you with the tips that will make a big difference in the interview process.

Understanding what to wear, how to speak and present your resume are all factors which are critical factors for success.

The interview process is not one event, it may involve several meetings and may start on the phone, move through video presentations online and end up eventually at the office.

But remember, even if you get the position, the interview continues while you are at work so that you keep the job and continue up the ladder of success.

Chapter2. My resume, my voice

Your resume says who you are and where you want to go.

If you want to stand out, your resume with your profile offers you the best opportunity to be noticed. Whether it’s in a functional or chronological format, try to have your resume tailored towards the job you are trying to get and demonstrate to the prospective employer that you are the right candidate.

A last-minute job application without a proper review of an old resume is the fastest way to ruin chances of success. The new resume shows off your profile and increases your chances of being noticed. Generic resumes are no longer being used, successful candidates create a tailor made resume with a focus on the job you are applying for.

Work history

A strong work history demonstrates your abilities even if they don’t compliment your career path. For example, working at a fast-food restaurant shows your ability to offer customer service, manage cash and be part of a team. A baby sitter shows maturity, patience and a good work ethic while no work history makes potential employers wonder if you’re ready for the real world.

Add accomplishments, even if they appear strange. Like winning a singing competition may open up a conversation about your interest in the arts or winning athletic medals can get recruiters talking about your interest in healthy foods.

Use catchphrases

Employers get hundreds of resumes everyday so do some research on the organization you are applying to and include words that could grab their attention. If you’re applying to a bank, you could use words like cash, credit cards, balance and reconcile. If you worked in a fast-food restaurant and operated the cash register, you would have handled all of the above. The prospective company’s website is a good source of information.

Get important points noticed

Most recruiters look at the top half of your resume first and usually view it in 20 seconds so highlight your achievements and experience first and then include other information. After listing, your contact information, add a summary of your main qualifications and work experience that may be relevant to the job you are applying for.

Your education, honors and awards should follow along with any volunteer work.

Keep the same font

Unless you are applying for a position in Arts, Advertising or Marketing, you should always keep the same font. This makes your presentation look organized and assist with the flow of the presentation. The most widely accepted fonts are Tahoma, Ariel and Georgia but Times New Roman in 10- to 12- point size is the font most recommended.

You never get a second chance to make a first impression

Your resume speaks on your behalf so double check the final document for spelling errors and grammatical errors. Recruiters will send your resume to the trash bin once errors are directed so that you don’t end up in their organization and make the same errors.

Make it appealing and keep your resume to one page, two pages if you have more than 5 years’ experience. Be professional but show that you are fun and personable and demonstrate that you have some knowledge about the position you are applying for.

What to Avoid

Don’t try to be funny

Making inappropriate comments or jokes may not go down well with your recruiter.

Matters of race, gender, sexual orientation and religion should always be avoided whenever possible.

These comments may reflect poorly on a recruiter and breach ethical grounds as the recruiter may be questioned in the future about the reasons why you were employed.

Use plain paper or professional resume paper

Your presentation on a bright blue paper will not go across well with recruiters. Trying to look pretty may look unprofessional. It says you’re not ready for the working world.

Chapter 3. The interview

An interview can be an intimidating experience, whether you’re in high school, college or just graduating, this experience allows you and your recruiter the opportunity to determine if you are both a good match.

Validating your skills

Prior to the interview, you would have completed the “pre-interview” phase which includes the submission of your cover letter, resume and other documents to the recruiter.

Interview Questions

Most recruiters have already prepared their questions and they will not be based on your religion, gender, color, sexual orientation or race.

You should be prepared to answer questions similar to the ones listed below.

What makes you different from the other candidates we are interviewing?

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?

How do you think your previous employer would describe you?

What do you think your responsibilities will be in our organization?

Do you have any experience working with a team?

If you could choose your own manager, what type of person do you work best with?

Can you describe the work environment that you prefer?

Some questions are designed to make the interview process more conversation based and we have included examples of behavioral questions:

How do you view conflict and can you describe a time when you had to deal with issue?

Describe how you motivate others?

If you disagreed with a manager, how would you handle it?

Tell me what you liked and disliked about your last job.

How do you manage and track your time?

Employers are required to follow all applicable laws and treat every applicant equally and fairly except where sex is a genuine occupational requirement, or if a disability may disqualify the candidate.

In some cases, you will participate in a phone interview.

The Phone interviews

So, you have agreed on a specific time and date for the phone interview and confirmed the number you or your recruiter will call. The next step is the actual call.

The phone interview is a critical step in the job application process and requires the same level of professionalism required in the face-to-face interview.

You are strongly recommended to agree on a time that allows you to prepare for the interview and find a location that is quiet and has minimal distractions. If you are using a cell phone or cordless phone, make sure your signal strength is strong and clear. Have a copy of your resume present so that your facts match the information in the recruiter’s possession. Write down information on the organization so you appear knowledgeable about the people you are going to work for.

Make sure that the phone is fully charged and avoid talking other calls during the interview. Speak clearly and sound professional in your responses. Make a list of questions that you may want to ask about the organization and the position but wait until the recruiter has completed their questions and ask you if you have any questions that you may want to ask.

The Face-to-Face Interview

So, your finally here and your resume has gotten you this far and now your expected to bring your resume to life and be everything and more than what was on paper. Here are some tips to get you prepared for that special day.

Punctuality

Always be on time, try to be at the location at least 30 minutes before just in case there is a lot of traffic or you get the wrong address. If possible, visit the location before to make sure you have the correct address. Ask for the person meeting you at least 10 minutes before the meeting so they know your punctual.

Dressing for your appointment can be tricky and depends on the type of job you are applying for. For males, wearing a suit or jacket with a tie to an office will certainly make a good impression. If it’s less formal setting, a tie is the minimum attire that should be worn with a nice, cleanly pressed shirt that’s tucked in. Females should wear a nicely tailored pants suit or a professional dress that’s appropriate for the office environment. A smart looking jacket is always a nice touch. Ladies should avoid spaghetti strap outfits and short dresses and skirts; gentlemen should avoid bright floral patterns and muscle shirts. Both should avoid wearing jeans and your hair must be neatly groomed.

Sneakers and slippers would not be the best choice so wear a pair of clean shoes that match your outfit.

Be prepared to provide the names, contact numbers and addresses of three references who are not your family members. During the interview, make sure your phone is on vibrate or turned off. Never answer your phone in an interview unless it’s an emergency.

Remember the interview may take place at your school, the company office or may be an online meeting like Skype. Most interviews can be with one or more people who are knowledgeable about the organization’s requirements and the position available. Usually, the Human Resources department has one representative present to participate in the process.

On line video interviews

An online video interview should be approached with the same level of professionalism that a face-to-face interview requires.

Dos and Don’ts’

Agree on a date and time with the recruiter that allows you to prepare for the interview and ensure that your computer or tablet is fully charged because you don’t know how long the interview may last.

What’s in your background says a lot about you so look behind and make sure that its presentable. Images of marijuana plants, violent or sexually suggestive posters will not look professional.

The in-person interview

In the majority of interviews, a manager will interview you privately in an office but in recent years and depending on the industry you are applying for, the interview may be conducted in a group setting with other candidates. The group setting is used to determine how you interact with others and how comfortable you are speaking in public. In both settings you should be professional.

The recruiter may discuss the organization and engage in discussions about your commute to their office but they will soon move to questions to determine if you are a good match for their organization. All interviews are different but the objective is to gain as much information about your skills and attitudes to various situations that you have or may encounter.

Being prepared for these questions is the best way to ensure your success while attaining the position you desire so let’s take a look at some of the topics that might arise.

Validation

The recruiter may ask you questions about your grades, GPA, scholastic achievements and years in a previous job. In most cases, the recruiter will already have the answers and maybe just testing you.

Situational

The recruiter wants to understand how you deal with situations and may give you an example of something that occurred and ask how you would have handled it. For example, they might ask “if someone made derogatory remark to you about your clothes, how would you handle it?”

Behavioral

You may be asked to describe a situation when something bad happened and how you managed it. This assist recruiters in understanding how you cope and react in situations. Try to remain calm and answer honestly.

Group interviews

In some situations, you could be interviewed by a group or panel who may take turns asking you questions or meeting with you individually.

After the interviewer has finished asking you questions, they usually give you an opportunity to ask questions about the organization or the position. This process will help you and the recruiter to determine if you “are a good fit” so ask the questions that you feel will help you to make an informed decision if you are offered the position.

Some of the position related questions you could ask are;

Is there a dress code? Required working hours? Health or other benefits?

Vacation and or sick leave policy?

Salary range for the position?

The recruiter may offer you a tour of the organization and an opportunity to meet your potential coworkers and experience the work environment and ambience.

It is highly unlikely that you will be confirmed for the position on the same day and they will advise you of a date when you will be advised. If the recruiter does not advise you of this date, feel free to ask them.

After the interview

In the days following the interview, the recruiter will review your information and compare it to other candidates. This also allows you to determine if this is the position you really desire.

There are many candidates for a few positions so you should always try to find ways to make recruiters remember you. If you can collect business cards or e-mail addresses from the people who interviewed you, then send them an e-mail afterwards, thanking them for meeting with you.

You should get a confirmation within a few days whether you got the position or not. Some organizations never respond and you may have to move on to other opportunities. In some cases, you may be invited in for another interview.

If you are not confirmed for the position on the same day, they will advise you of a date when you will be contacted. If the recruiter does not let you know this date, feel free to ask them.

Chapter 4. You got the job.

Congratulations, you got the job!

It’s your first day at work and you want to shine, unless you are wearing a uniform, you should still dress professionally until you understand the dress culture of the organization. You never get a second chance for a first impression so dress well and increase your chances of developing a network of new contacts. The “monkey see, monkey do” principle is good way to figure out how to dress and this means

RESPECT the work space of others

you should do this by observing coworkers. It’s advisable to discuss the organizations dress policy with your hiring manager before you start work.

Don’t dress sloppy; shirts tucked in, clean shoes and ladies having their mid sections completely covered are all requirements of the professional working world.

Owning a business suite is a good investment for any young person, male or female. You’re not expected to wear it every day, but if your office requires it, then you will need to buy more. If it’s not required, just be sure to look

Casual Fridays are not Crazy Fridays

Be refined and professional.

The term “Business casual” is widely used by many organizations as a dress code but it’s very vague and open to many interpretations. Some organizations have casual Fridays so before you wear shorts, floppies and t-shirts, let’s see how casual everyone is before dressing down.

Always be professional

Miniskirts, tight dresses and plunging necklines will create the wrong impression so be conservative.

Jewelry

An interview isn’t the best place to wear a lot of bright, shiny pieces of jewelry. Large earrings, silver, gold or big rings are to be discouraged. Be conservative, multiple earrings and facial piercing’s do not present a professional look.

Choose your friends wisely!

Perfumes

Strong fragrances can be distracting in an interview or an office. Some people have allergies caused by perfumes and colognes so use as little as possible.

Unless it’s for religious purposes, head gear and hats should not be worn in the office and males should get a haircut regularly.

These are some other suggestions which will help you to get through your probationary period and establish a good reputation in the workplace.

Language

You’re in an office, not your dorm room hanging out with friends. Do not shout or swear, it will only confirm your age and make others around you feel uncomfortable. Speak clearly and don’t use slang or acronyms. The same approach is required for e-mails, be clear and professional.

The tone used in e-mails is very important, try being direct and use check spelling to avoid grammatical errors. Always add a subject for easy reference and a signature line makes you look professional.

Avoid using the work e-mail address for your personal e-mail as some organizations monitor these files.

Personal space

Your desk area should always be kept neat and clutter free. Don’t hang pictures or use screen savers that may be offensive to coworkers. It is advisable that you respect the space of others and don’t hang around the work areas of coworkers unless you are invited. If you are listening to music, keep it at a minimum and ensure that others cannot hear.

It’s not your personal computer

Don’t spend your time watching videos or surfing the internet. If you are not busy, then ask for more work. You don’t want to be seen sitting at your desk doing nothing.

Don’t make fun of others.

Inappropriate Jokes

 

Racism and prejudice are serious issues in offices. Don’t make inappropriate jokes or remarks regarding someone’s race, religion, age, sexual orientation or gender.

The remarks or jokes should not be shared in person, by e-mail or on pictures in your work space. In some organizations, these are grounds for dismissal.

Phones

When you answer the phone, speak clearly, identify yourself and let the other person speak. If you’re not sure about what you’re going to say, then write it out before starting the conversation. Be polite and always allow the other person to speak.

Getting along with others

The workplace can be fun but it’s not a party. You should enjoy your job but you should not be over friendly. Make friends but don’t cross professional boundaries.

You should not start working and go after the first great looking person you see in the cubicle next to yours. Getting involved with a co-worker can raise several issues so give it a lot of thought before making that decision.

Most employees get along but not everyone wants to be your friend so don’t be surprised if there are some that resist your attempts to be social.

About the Author

Christopher Nelson, MBA, PMP, ITIL, is a management professional with two decades of executive management experience. He is an entrepreneur and motivational speaker who has worked with several companies as a senior executive to develop strategies which improve operational efficiencies.

Christopher entered the working world at age 17 and rose through the ranks to be awarded the Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award in 1998. His work has taken him from North America to China, Latin America, the Caribbean and Canada and he is regarded as one of the most respected business development professionals in many of these markets.

The Nelson True Life Series of books was created to help people from all walks of life with issues that may derail us from living happy and successful lives.

Special thanks to Julia M. Lang, PHR and Lisa A. McDonald, MBA for providing me with invaluable information to complete this book.