How to Become a Cybersecurity Specialist

In the digital age, cybersecurity specialists are as essential as watchdogs. But, what exactly do they do? Cybersecurity specialists maintain online frameworks and data for organizations and corporations around the world. 

Depending on the size of their company, a cybersecurity specialist can be a white or grey hat. They may take on many roles and even advise on the best and latest ethical practices. In simple terms, a cybersecurity specialist keeps tabs on a company's online framework while helping other employees stay on top of imminent threats. 

The world is increasingly becoming dependent on the internet and mobile computing. Cybersecurity is more urgent, which boosts the demand for more cybersecurity experts by extension. In North America alone, there are more than 200,000 unfilled positions. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts an average 12% growth from 2018 through 2028, which far outpaces the national average for other professions. To help you navigate all this, here is a detailed breakdown of how to obtain your certifications and traverse the dynamic field of cybersecurity. 


Obtain Relevant Certifications 

While job openings have exceeded 3.5 million as of 2021, you cannot simply walk in the door and get hired. Organizations care about your ability to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills. That is where certification comes in. 

Accreditations such as the security+ certification and CySA+ certification prove that you are qualified for the job. These certifications are instrumental in the industry. Comprehensive certifications enable you to be proficient in your specialty and be proactive in mitigating threats. 

The most professional approach is having a holistic training program that covers both practical and theoretical job training. Such a program builds up your knowledge to handle incidences as they occur. A holistic program will enable you to adapt to technological advancements and equip you with the necessary capabilities. 

Refine Your Technical and Soft Skills 

Your soft skills matter as much as your technical expertise. You will need to communicate well, be comfortable training coworkers, and coach them on best practices. 

On one hand, hard skills generally epitomize your ability to use specific technology, secure coding practices, perform vulnerability assessments and route computers with various operating systems. On the other hand, soft skills are equally essential in enabling you to succeed. Collaborative problem-solving and interpersonal skills are critical in helping you connect. 

At the same time, cybersecurity specialists are often needed during a crisis, especially when there are network and data system issues. In other words, the ability to thrive under pressure is critical. 

Gain relevant experience 

Cybersecurity is a colossal, complex puzzle where the pieces are always moving. Such complexity necessitates the ability to adapt and fit the pieces together. Before hiring managers decide who to bring on board, they will want to evaluate your knack for solving problems. 

Having CompTIA security+ training is an essential component in showcasing your ability to tackle problems with an analytical and methodical approach. Commonly, an interviewer will ask you to work through a simulated environment during the technical stage of the hiring process. 

In an interview published in The Hashed Out, hiring manager Ross Thomas states that there are many different parts of security within the IT field. CompTIA CySA+ certification through CompTIA CySA+ training is a good baseline for understanding almost all facets of the technology world. 

Thomas argues that understanding how things work on a fundamental level allows you to gain great insight into the strengths and weaknesses of an online framework. In other words, understanding the systematic approach to solving complex problems will help you climb the cybersecurity ladder. 

Learn continuously 

Cybersecurity evolves every day. Why? The continuous emergence of new technologies and hacking techniques forces constant change. Cybercriminals release over 350,000 new Trojan horses and malware every day, which means cybersecurity professionals must continually learn new ways of securing information systems and online frameworks. 

In the dynamic world of cybersecurity, you can only attain success through continuous learning. Get familiar with the strategies ethical hackers use to identify vulnerabilities and you will also seal potential loopholes. Continuously learning will also help you acquire new opportunities to progress in your career. 

Conclusion 

According to a recent PayScale questionnaire, cybersecurity specialists report a high level of job satisfaction. There are currently over 3.5 million cybersecurity job openings, showing a market growing at an astronomical speed. However, the skill gap between qualified cybersecurity professionals and the existential demand is increasingly widening. 

This trend means more opportunities, colossal compensation, and high annual pay ranges for cybersecurity professionals. With so many options and incentives, transitioning into the cybersecurity field will undoubtedly work to your advantage.

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