Cyber security is a constantly growing field. Because nearly every business employs computer and internet technologies, cyber security is vital across all industries. Couple this with increasing rates of cyber security threats, and you have the definition of job security.
If you are hoping to launch your cyber security career in 2023, you can utilize the following tips to round out your resume and present yourself as the ideal job candidate.
Create a Cyber Security-focused Resume
The most overlooked step in optimizing your job search is to create a resume tailored to each position you apply for.
If you already have a resume, you can use it as a starting point. If not, you can use this easy online resume creator to quickly and easily compose your document.
Either way, you should edit your resume to focus on displaying your cyber security skills and experience in the field.
Resume keywords are essential. When first composing your cyber security resume, try to include as many general resume keywords as possible. These include:
- Networking
- System Administration
- Master System Administration
- Operating Systems (Mac OS, Windows, Linux)
- Virtual Machines
- Kali Linux
- Ethical Hacking
- Penetration Testing
- Malware Analysis
- Security Research
- Computer Forensics
- Network Security Control
- Routers
- Firewalls
- Filters
- Intrusion Detection/Prevention Systems
- Virtual Private Networks (VPNs)
- Coding and Programming Languages (C, C++, Python, JavaScript, PHP, HTML, Go, SQL, Assembly)
- Cloud Security
- Cloud Platforms (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud)
- Application Development Security
- Blockchain Security
- Internet of Things (IoT)
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Risk Analysis
- Information Security
- Security Incident Handling and Response
- Security Audit
Of course, you shouldn’t rely entirely on these basic keywords, either. Examine the job posting for potential keywords, including educational requirements, years of experience, specific programs or programming languages, etc.
You should audit your resume in this way for each job you apply to, rather than sending out multiple copies of a generic resume.
Learn and Increase Your Skills
If some of the above keywords left you scratching your head, don’t worry! You can pursue continuing education to increase your knowledge and skills.
One way to do this is to take online courses in cyber security, including programming languages, networking, web development, and cloud computing.
You should also reach out for cyber security certifications and cybersecurity assignment help at the same time. Many vendor-neutral IT certifications are offered through providers such as The Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). These are well-known and well-respected in the industry, and the skills you learn are transferable across operating systems and programs. These certifications include:
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Advanced Security Practioner (CASP) and
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Server+
Another well-known certification is the Cisco CCNA.
Don’t forget to include your certifications in a dedicated “Certifications” section on your resume. Not only does this look good to your future employer, but these may be some of the resume keywords they are searching for!
Gain Experience Through Your Current Circumstances
Experience is a critical part of your resume, especially if you are breaking into the cyber security field for the first time.
If you have already worked in cyber security – even if it was only a small part of your job – you’re golden. For your new resume, focus on highlighting the cyber security tasks and accomplishments that your current or former position entailed.
What if you have not worked in cyber security before? There are a few ways you can gain experience even now, as you prepare to apply for your next job.
Personal Projects
If you have an interest in cyber security, you no doubt enjoy using a personal computer with internet access. You may already be working on personal projects that can serve as valuable experiences, such as establishing and maintaining the security of a personal website.
Alternatively, you could volunteer to perform a cyber security audit for a local charity or small business, and offer solutions for any problems that you find.
Be sure to include these experiences on your resume under the heading of “Hobbies,” “Projects,” or “Volunteering.”
Freelancing
Even before you pick up a full-time cyber security job, you can put your skills to work as part of the gig economy. Create a website, place online ads, or advertise your services by word of mouth.
Include your freelance experience on your resume, under the “Work Experience” heading. If your freelance business has a name, composing the entry is simple. If not, you may be able to use the client’s business name for long-term projects or simply leave it off. “Freelance Cybersecurity Consultant,” says it all.
Ask for Training or Opportunities at Work
If currently employed outside the cyber security sector, you may be able to gain valuable experience at your current job.
If training is an employee perk, ask to be trained in cyber security. After this investment, your department will likely put your skills to work.
Alternatively, you could inform your boss of your cyber security skills and let them know that you would like to do more for the company in that field. You might even point out observations of a specific threat and offer solutions.
