Are You Ready for a Cybersecurity Job in 2024?

Summary

In this informative video, Josh Mador shares valuable insights on breaking into the cybersecurity field. He emphasizes the importance of having a solid foundation, such as Security Plus level knowledge, and highlights the significance of building a strong resume and portfolio. Mador also discusses the role of certifications, networking, and practical experience through labs and projects. He provides a framework to assess one's employability and suggests actionable steps, including leveraging free resources and creating content to showcase skills. The video is a guide for aspiring cybersecurity professionals to enhance their chances of securing a job in the industry.

Takeaways

• 😀 Josh Mador, the speaker, has experience helping people secure jobs in cybersecurity and has worked in various domains within the field.
• 📚 Josh and his team have created free exam test banks and practice questions for certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and others.
• 🔒 The speaker emphasizes that cybersecurity is a broad field with different domains, and not every role requires the same skill set, such as coding or Linux proficiency.
• 📈 For beginners, having at least Security Plus level knowledge is recommended, which can be obtained for free through resources like Professor Messer or the Google Cybersecurity program.
• 💼 The key to breaking into any field, including cybersecurity, is to focus on getting interviews and passing them; other factors are facilitators to these goals.
• 📝 Creating a strong resume and having good interview skills can compensate for a lack of a strong social network or connections in the industry.
• 🎓 Education and certifications can be important, but not always necessary; what's crucial is demonstrating knowledge and skills relevant to the role.
• 🛠️ Building a portfolio is essential, especially for those without experience. Creating content or projects and showcasing them can demonstrate passion and expertise.
• 📚 Josh mentions his course, which includes labs and projects that can be done independently, to help build a candidate's skills and portfolio.
• 💼 An ideal resume for a newcomer in cybersecurity should include certifications, projects, and knowledge of relevant frameworks and standards.
• 🚀 The speaker encourages applying for jobs with a well-prepared resume and portfolio, emphasizing that high-level positions are attainable with the right skills and passion.

Q & A

What is the first step recommended by Josh Mador for someone looking to break into the field of cybersecurity?

Josh Mador suggests that everyone trying to get into cybersecurity should have at least Security Plus level knowledge, which can be obtained for free from resources like Professor Messer or the Google Cybersecurity program.

What are the two main things one needs to focus on to break into the field of cybersecurity according to the transcript?

The two main things to focus on are getting an interview and passing the interview. All other factors like social networking, resume quality, certifications, and technical skills are facilitators to achieve these two goals.

What does Josh Mador suggest for someone who cannot afford to get CompTIA Security Plus certification?

Josh Mador recommends acquiring the level of knowledge equivalent to CompTIA Security Plus and then noting on the resume 'CompTIA Security Plus in progress' to get an initial foot in the door.

Why is creating a portfolio important for someone trying to break into cybersecurity?

Creating a portfolio is important because it showcases one's experience and skills in the field. It can include personal projects, content creation, or any other relevant work that demonstrates a candidate's abilities and passion for cybersecurity.

What is the role of practicing labs in preparing for a cybersecurity interview?

Practicing labs helps to build a strong intuition and understanding of the subject matter. It allows candidates to become more proficient in their technical skills, which can be effectively communicated during an interview.

What does Josh Mador suggest for someone who wants to stand out when applying for cybersecurity jobs?

Josh Mador suggests that candidates should go the extra mile by doing projects that show initiative and passion. This could involve setting up a mini SOC in the cloud, practicing incident response, or engaging in other hands-on projects that can be discussed during interviews.

What is the importance of having a good resume when applying for cybersecurity jobs?

A good resume is crucial as it is often the first impression a potential employer gets of a candidate. It should highlight relevant education, certifications, projects, and skills that align with the job requirements.

What are some free or low-cost certifications that Josh Mador recommends for enhancing a resume?

Josh Mador recommends certifications like FEMA Incident Management System, Qualys Vulnerability Management, and noting CompTIA Security Plus 'in progress' on the resume as ways to enhance one's qualifications without high costs.

What is the significance of the employability framework mentioned in the transcript?

The employability framework serves as a guide to help individuals understand their weaknesses and areas that need improvement. It helps them to focus on what is important and decide where to allocate their time and resources to increase their chances of breaking into the cybersecurity field.

Why does Josh Mador emphasize the importance of passion and initiative in cybersecurity?

Josh Mador emphasizes passion and initiative because they convey a candidate's genuine interest and commitment to the field. Employers are often impressed by candidates who have gone beyond the basics to gain practical experience and demonstrate their dedication to cybersecurity.

What is the potential earning range for a first job in cybersecurity according to the transcript?

The transcript suggests that it is possible for someone to earn between $70,000 to $100,000 for their first job in cybersecurity, depending on their skills, experience, and the effort they put into preparing for their role.

What is the role of social networking in the job search process for cybersecurity?

Social networking can play a significant role in the job search process. Having a strong professional network, such as knowing the CEO of a company, can greatly increase the chances of securing a job. However, if one does not have such connections, they can compensate by having a strong resume, good interview skills, and a solid portfolio.