Cyber security is one of the promising industries with great employment opportunities. If you are thinking of having a successful career in cyber security, then you should adhere to the following:
1. Research
Success in any profession comes from investing enough time and effort into understanding what the job entails. You need to research the various disciplines of cyber security to know which areas of work suit your knowledge and skills. It will also help you come across a worthy candidate for the job since you show significant interest in the subject. Understanding what the career is about will help you decide which discipline to follow. So, learn as much as you can about information sourcing and management, data assurance, information protection. Encryption, data confidentially, and penetration. A great source to keep up to date with current news is Barclay Simpson.
2. Get Qualified
Get the requisite training and attain the required qualifications for the profession; these will play a vital role in advancing your career. When enrolling for sources in cyber security, consider taking those that the industry recognizes. Some of the top certificates worth attaining include Global Information Assurance Certification GPEN and the CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker).
3. Have Rounded Skills
Specialization in the cyber security profession is essential for a successful career. It helps you to be regarded as a guru in your particular field thus shows that you are well-rounded in both knowledge and skills. For instance, if you are working in IT, then use that work position to build your expertise and develop core skills as you focus on greater things in your career in cyber security. If you are in any other related discipline, then consider taking a course that will help you sharpen your IT knowledge and skills and enhancing your professional portfolio.
4. Learning Through Apprenticeship
Apprenticeship presents you a chance to learn the trade of the industry via a more “hands-on” approach. You get to put theoretical things into practical applications that you gain the knowledge for the profession while also obtaining the necessary expertise. Check with the National Apprenticeship Service to see if there are apprenticeship opportunities. They will help you gain more than just what you learn in the college setting. Moreover, you get to discover what cyber security is all about through practical applications as you get paid.
5. Work Experience
If apprenticeship is not on the table, then consider a work experience placement. It is the best alternatives to apprenticeships since it also allows you to learn while on the job thus helping you have a better idea of the fundaments of working in the cyber security industry. With such a setting, you get to interact with seasoned professionals in the industry. However, you will not enjoy any pay but what you gain in terms of experience and expertise are invaluable.
6. Internships
Aside from the apprenticeships and work experience placement options, you can get the experience for the trade via internships. With this option, you may or may not enjoy a salary, but again the knowledge, experience, and expertise acquired makes it worthwhile and adds to your resume.