Is it Too Late to Start a Career in Cyber Security?

You are not alone in thinking that starting a career in cyber security is out of reach since you need more experience in information technology. In Asia and the Pacific (APAC), thousands of skilled workers focus on cyber security to advance their careers. Even if you don’t have a background in IT, choose a career in cyber security because it offers exciting chances and lucrative pay. By April 2021, the number of open cyber security positions worldwide would have risen to nearly 4 million. This is a good moment to enter this rapidly expanding field.

Let’s discuss how someone without IT experience might transition into cyber security.

Consider first if cyber security is something you genuinely care about

You will only go far in the cyber market with a deep desire to safeguard your organization and meet customer expectations. Companies will only have faith in an applicant with that kind of initiative. A genuine interest in cyber security will also make it much simpler to absorb the vast amount of technical data and practice-based expertise that will be required.

Deloitte claims that some of “their” top cyber security experts got their start in the industry without ever having studied computer science in college. Instead, they had a natural inclination to learn more, a genuine interest in the topic, and the flexibility to adjust to novel circumstances quickly. This demonstrates that a background in computer science is optional. A genuine interest in cyber security and the ability to demonstrate that interest via relevant work experience will go far.

Consider making a career transition into cyber security by doing homework and acquiring the necessary technical and soft skills.

It takes study and practice to reach an expert level in any discipline. Gaining expertise in networking, system administration, data management, data analytics, reporting, and security and keeping up with developments in these areas is crucial. However, an increasing scarcity of cyber skills means that enthusiastic newcomers can quickly advance their careers by applying for entry-level cyber security employment after developing the necessary fundamentals.

While coding and programming abilities aren’t required for every cyber function, they’re highly desirable for positions like a Cyber Security Analyst, Penetration Tester, Cyber Security Threat Hunter, Forensic Analyst, Cyber Incident Responder, and more.

There is a wealth of information available online to help you learn to code and program in industry-standard languages (such as C+, C++, Python, Ruby, R, PHP, and SQL), but if you’d rather not waste time searching for the suitable materials and instead hone your cyber skills in a hands-on setting, consider enrolling in our cyber security certification program in partnership with UTS.

Achieving technical proficiency may seem impossible, but it is not the final goal. You may even have the transferable soft skills necessary to make a career change into the cyber business. Soft skills frequently set cyber workers apart when applying for their first employment in the industry. The ability to learn on the job, leadership traits, problem-solving attitude, managerial skills, capacity to communicate with stakeholders at all levels, and strong motivation to keep learning and achieve goals are all highly sought after by employers.

It is always possible to make a change.

Depending on the country you call home, you could be looking at a retirement age of 61 or higher. Even if you have to keep working for a while longer, investing in your education now will pay dividends in the form of higher employability, job happiness, and, in the case of cybersecurity, job security.

Could you take care of the individuals who matter to you?

As an adult, you have much more of a beginning to any venture. Could you explain what inspired you to do it and your plan for making it all come together? Than just figuring out your professional life. You have loved ones who are important to you and rely on you materially and emotionally. You need their approval before committing to a larger research project so that you may count on their continued assistance.

At the outset of any venture, explain what inspired you to do it and your plan for making it all come together. It would be best if you also were upfront about the drawbacks of your decision, such as needing to cut back on social events or spending money. A strong ally and someone you can share your victories with is the reward for doing this.

Could you tell others about your plans and timetable through pictures and charts? This clarifies your stance and why you may decline the dinner invitation for next weekend.

Have some stake in the outcome

I only owe money for the courses I took. In my experience over the past decade, the first financial commitment to a program (whether it was delivered online or in person) was the best indicator of my likelihood of completing it. You should allocate a specific amount of your current income to your career advancement and hold yourself accountable for making the most of that investment.

Remember your original motivation.

As things get tough, you may wonder if continuing is worthwhile. If you are ready to face such a low point, that’s good. If I’m feeling anxious, I find it helpful to write down my concerns and read the resolutions out loud.

You can start early connections with professionals in your sector.

It’s easy to get bogged down in the theory or dryness of the content if you’re taking a lengthier study program while still working in another industry, especially if you need a live instructor or a group of people to exchange with. Attending related events like meet-ups or smaller conferences can help maintain your interest. Even if you’re still learning the material, establishing connections with experts in the industry will introduce you to like-minded individuals and give your studies more context.

Get some work experience in the field of cybersecurity

Having mastered the basics of cyber security, you should now move on to more advanced topics. This is where you show off all the hard work and effort that makes you a desirable cybersecurity candidate. The next steps are as follows:

Independent tasks will help you hone your technical expertise and build practice time.
Volunteering or an internship might help you learn on the job while confirming your interest in cybersecurity. It’s also a great way to get your foot in the door with influential people in your field.

Meet other people in your field at conferences (virtual or in person)

Get in touch with other successful people and network with them. Seminars and discussions geared toward the industry are one method for accomplishing this goal. You can visit one of our events or see if anything is happening in your area. Becoming involved with the local cybersecurity community can be accomplished quickly by joining relevant LinkedIn groups.

Locate a mentor

There’s no more excellent teacher than a working professional in cyber security. If you do this, you may stay abreast of new developments in your area and gain access to helpful information and expert advice to further your career. This process of finding a mentor takes time. To get started, start or join intelligent online community discussions. Learn about the experiences and challenges faced by people you look up to in the cyber business by reading about their careers.

Conclusion: It’s never too late to start a career in cybersecurity

It takes work to make a profession switch as an adult. It’s unsettling to go away from something you know and are good at into something new where you know you’ll be at a disadvantage just because you got started later. Even after ten years in the field, cybersecurity experts frequently experience imposter syndrome and doubt their abilities. Accepting that there is always more to learn as early as possible is beneficial. Please Popular. Avoid dwelling on the negative and focus on taking steps that move you closer to your objectives.

Let’s look at our salary guide to make the most of your job search and land your dream job.

Populer Cyber Security Salaries Guide

Completing a cyber security course and becoming industry-educated is the quickest method to get started in the cyber field. Demonstrating your ability to guard, defend, and respond to cyber security threats is essential to advancing your cyber professional career. Also, remember to get tips on salary negotiation and learn what to expect from a career in the cybersecurity industry.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What specific technical and soft skills do individuals need to acquire to successfully transition into cybersecurity, especially if they lack an IT background?

Transitioning into cybersecurity requires a combination of technical skills such as networking, system administration, data management, data analytics, and security. Additionally, soft skills like problem-solving, communication, leadership, and the ability to learn on the job are crucial for success in the field.

What certifications or training programs are recommended for individuals looking to enter the cybersecurity field without IT experience, and how can they determine the most valuable certifications for their career path?

Recommended certifications include CompTIA Security+, Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), and Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP). Researching industry demands, job requirements, and reputable training providers can help individuals determine the most valuable certifications for their chosen career path.

What are some common challenges that individuals may face when transitioning into cybersecurity, and how can they overcome them?

Common challenges include the need for technical proficiency, lack of relevant work experience, and competition in the job market. Overcoming these challenges requires dedication, continuous learning, networking, gaining practical experience through internships or volunteer work, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals in the field.

What factors contribute to salary and job prospects in the cybersecurity industry, especially for individuals without IT experience, and how can they maximize their earning potential and career growth?

Salary and job prospects in cybersecurity are generally lucrative and promising, especially considering the increasing demand for skilled professionals. Factors contributing to earning potential and career growth include salary negotiation skills, industry certifications, relevant experience, and continuous learning. By focusing on these factors, individuals can maximize their opportunities for advancement in the field.