Thanks to Harriet Walker, Marketing Manager, and Becca Edwards, ADHD Coach and Delivery Partner, at InfoSec People, for this guest blog on reskilling within cybersecurity. Read on for her expert insights. This piece is apart of techSPARK’s Cyber Month.
As technology advances, we are constantly facing threats like ransomware, phishing, and attacks on our connected devices, making cyber security crucial. To stay ahead, both individuals and organisations need to keep learning and adapting. This process, known as reskilling, can be crucial within cyber security.
Why does reskilling matter? Reskilling means updating your skills to meet these new challenges. For cybersecurity professionals and those wanting to get into the cyber security industry, it’s not just about personal growth—it’s a must for staying relevant. Without ongoing learning, they risk falling behind.
How can you reskill within cyber?
Lateral industry moves
If you’re already in the industry, see what progression pathways your company can offer you in terms of training/retraining. Determine the specific area within cyber security you want to transition into. This could be moving from network security to penetration testing, or from security analysis to incident response, for example. Evaluate your current skills and expertise against the requirements of your target role. Identify any gaps in knowledge or experience that you need to address to make a successful lateral move.
Self-Study and Practice
Utilise online resources such as blogs, forums, and YouTube tutorials to learn about different aspects of cybersecurity. Additionally, practice on virtual labs and platforms like Hack The Box or TryHackMe to hone your skills.
Focus on transferable skills
By recognising and leveraging transferable skills, people from a range of backgrounds can more easily transition into cybersecurity roles or advance within the field. Employers also benefit from this approach, as they can tap into a broader talent pool and cultivate diverse perspectives and experiences within their cybersecurity teams.
Core transferable skills include analytical and problem-solving abilities from fields like engineering or finance, critical thinking, and decision-making from disciplines like law or management, effective communication, and collaboration essential for teamwork, and non-linear thinking crucial for cryptography or ethical hacking, (where the neurodiverse community excels due to their pattern recognition skills).
Apprenticeships
If you’re looking to study and work/earn while you learn, apprenticeships are a great way of qualifying while you learn on the job.
Networking
Networking provides opportunities to connect with various areas of the industry, whether through events, conferences, virtual gatherings, or local meetups like coffee mornings. These interactions offer valuable chances to learn from industry professionals in different niches within the field. Many professionals are willing to share their expertise, so it’s beneficial to connect with them on platforms like LinkedIn and maintain ongoing conversations to continue learning and building relationships.
Specialised Training Programs
Many organisations and institutions offer specialised training programs in cybersecurity, often tailored to specific roles or industries. Look for programs offered by cybersecurity firms, universities, or professional associations.
Certifications
While it’s not about badge collecting, taking the relevant courses and qualifications can expose you to the skills needed to move into a cyber security role. For example, if you’re looking at non-technical roles, this could be a great segway for you.
Volunteering/ Work Experience
You can contribute your expertise to non-profit organisations, open-source projects, or through freelancing and consulting. Practical experience getting hands-on is great for the more technical roles in cyber, participating in Capture The Flag (CTF) competitions – this can help you demonstrate your skills and build a portfolio to showcase your abilities to potential employers.
Interviews
Make the absolute most out of interviews. Ask plenty of questions! Interviews provide candidates with an opportunity to assess their own skills and knowledge. By understanding the specific requirements of the role they are interviewing for, candidates can identify areas where they may need to upskill or reskill to meet those requirements.
Mentorships
Mentorships play a crucial role in reskilling within cybersecurity by offering tailored guidance on learning paths, practical insights based on real-world experience, valuable feedback, networking opportunities, career advice, motivation, and personal development support. Mentors provide direction, encouragement, and accountability, helping individuals navigate the complexities of acquiring new skills and transitioning into the cybersecurity field with confidence and purpose.
Continuous Learning
It’s essential to stay updated on the latest trends, technologies, and threats. Dedicate time to continuous learning through reading industry publications (setting up Google alerts), attending webinars, and participating in online forums (like Discord Channels).
Be Open to Entry-Level Positions
Depending on the extent of your reskilling efforts and prior experience, you may need to start in an entry-level position within your target area of cybersecurity. Be open to this possibility as it can provide valuable hands-on experience and opportunities for advancement in the future.
Reskilling isn’t just about keeping up; it’s about staying ahead – continuous learning is essential. By embracing reskilling, both individuals and organisations can better protect themselves against evolving cyber threats.
