How I Would Learn Cyber Security If I Could Start Over in 2024 (6 Month Plan)

Summary

This video script offers a strategic guide for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to land a job in just six months, even without prior experience. It emphasizes building a strong resume, acquiring hands-on skills through platforms like Google's Cybersecurity Search, and broadening knowledge with GRC Mastery. The speaker advises viewers to apply consistently to jobs, engage in virtual internships, and attend cybersecurity events for networking—all while maintaining a balance between learning and enjoying the journey.

Takeaways

• 🚀 Start with the Google Cyber Security Search for beginners with zero IT knowledge to get hands-on practice with Linux, Python, and MySQL.
• 📚 Skip CompTIA Security Plus for now to focus on gaining practical skills that are in demand for cybersecurity jobs.
• 💼 Create a professional resume to showcase your skills and training, which is crucial for standing out to hiring managers.
• 🔍 Apply to cybersecurity jobs early and consistently to build confidence and learn the job market, even if you feel unprepared.
• 🌐 Utilize LinkedIn and other job platforms popular in your country to search and apply for cybersecurity positions daily.
• 👨‍🏫 Become a generalist by gaining a broad set of skills to qualify for a wide range of cybersecurity jobs, especially in small to medium-sized organizations.
• 📈 Enroll in GRC Mastery to acquire practical skills in governance, risk, and compliance, which are essential for a cybersecurity career.
• 📝 Complete the Capstone project in GRC Mastery to add a practical project to your resume, demonstrating your hands-on abilities.
• 🛠️ Participate in free training like the Qualys Vulnerability Management course to familiarize yourself with industry tools.
• 📚 Take beginner-friendly courses from platforms like TryHackMe to build practical skills in security analysis and incident response.
• 🏢 Engage in virtual internships offered by major companies to gain experience and add projects to your resume without cost.
• 🎓 Pursue intermediate level training in the final stages of your job search to deepen your expertise and increase your chances of landing a job.

Q & A

What is the main goal of the video?

The main goal of the video is to demonstrate a step-by-step plan for landing a cybersecurity job in 6 months, even without prior experience, degrees, or certifications.

What is the first step recommended in the video for someone starting with zero IT knowledge?

The first step is to take the Google Cyber Security course, which provides a foundation in cybersecurity and hands-on practice with Linux, Python, and MySQL.

Why is it suggested to skip the CompTIA Security Plus initially?

The CompTIA Security Plus is a beginner-level theoretical course. The focus should be on gaining hands-on skills that are in demand for cybersecurity jobs, which can be acquired later once foundational skills are established.

What is the importance of creating a resume early in the process?

Creating a resume early helps to showcase skills and training, making it clear to hiring managers that the candidate is serious about a career in cybersecurity.

How should the job experience section in a resume be structured according to the video?

The job experience section should list only the tasks and skills relevant to a cybersecurity job, even if they represent a small percentage of the actual work done in previous roles.

What is the significance of applying to cybersecurity jobs early in the learning process?

Applying early helps to build confidence, understand what companies are looking for, and learn to play the numbers game, increasing the chances of landing an interview.

Why is it recommended to become a generalist in cybersecurity initially?

Becoming a generalist allows a candidate to qualify for a wider range of cybersecurity jobs, especially in small to medium-sized organizations that require a broader skill set.

What does GRC Mastery offer that makes it a valuable resource in the learning process?

GRC Mastery offers practical skills in governance, risk, and compliance, with a focus on what the job market is asking for, including a Capstone project that can be added to a resume.

How does the video suggest incorporating the skills gained from GRC Mastery into a resume?

The skills and the Capstone project completed in GRC Mastery should be added to the resume under a 'practical projects' section, demonstrating hands-on experience.

What is the role of virtual internships in the job search process described in the video?

Virtual internships provide free mini-projects that can be completed and added to a resume, showcasing practical experience and making the candidate more attractive to employers.

Why is it important to continue applying to jobs while taking intermediate level training courses?

Continuing to apply to jobs while training ensures that the candidate stays proactive in the job market, updating their resume with new skills and increasing the chances of landing a job.

What is the bonus step suggested in the video for enhancing the learning experience?

The bonus step is to have fun and enjoy the journey by attending cybersecurity events and conferences, which can provide networking opportunities and additional learning experiences.