Jump Back
Based on conversations I have had with hundreds of candidates, a clear trend is emerging: technology professionals are increasingly interested in transitioning from infrastructure roles to cybersecurity.
Why?
Many IT roles are now increasingly saturated. On the other hand, with a rise in cyber threats and attacks, cybersecurity has become a critical concern for everyone, creating a talent shortage in cybersecurity that needs to be filled.
Making the transition is from infrastructure to cybersecurity is achievable. Here are some considerations to help you on your journey:
Get Certified
Earning certifications like CompTIA Security+, CISSP, or CEH can validate your knowledge and make you a more attractive candidate. The specific certification you pursue will depend on your area of interest in cybersecurity. Check out our advice about identifying which certification is best suited to you and your career goals.
Put Your Hand Up
Look for opportunities within your current role to gain hands-on experience. Show initiative by volunteering for security projects, vulnerability assessments, and security incidents. If these opportunities aren’t accessible to you at work, you can solve cybersecurity challenges independently and contribute to open-source projects to gain experience.
Networking
As with any career transition, it’s important to establish relationships with professionals in the field so that you can gain knowledge of how it operates. Attending conferences, webinars, meetups, other networking events, and platforms like LinkedIn can help with this. You never know what career opportunities may arise from expanding your network.
Transferable Skills
Evaluate how your current skills measure against those required of cybersecurity professionals in your role. This helps you identify the skills you need to refine and the ones you should get. Create a strategy to address any shortfalls between your present abilities and what you need as a cybersecurity professional. Then, follow the plan. It might involve obtaining a higher degree, going to a cybersecurity bootcamp, or learning through online courses.
Be Persistent
Any career transition can take time and effort. Stay committed and have patience; good things come to those who wait!
More about Lorraine…
Lorraine O’Leary is a Senior Associate in the Infrastructure & Security division of Barden’s talent advisory and recruitment firm.
Graduating with First Class Honours in BSc Business Information Systems from UCC, Lorraine’s academic aptitude for technology laid a solid foundation for her career trajectory. In February 2021, she joined the Barden team and has been a driving force behind the growth of the emergent technology practice within Barden, contributing significantly from its inception.
In her role, Lorraine serves as a trusted advisor to technology professionals and clients, providing guidance and unbiased advice throughout their careers. In particular, she works directly with infrastructure and security professionals throughout Ireland. Connect with Lorraine on LinkedIn or via lorraine.oleary@barden.ie