Since the start of the pandemic, the technology landscape has evolved substantially, growing more rapidly than ever before. Within this industry, Cybersecurity professionals are some of the most highly in-demand, with Microsoft and LinkedIn believing the number of cybersecurity jobs will grow more than 6.38 million in the next 5 years, a growth of 750%.
As Chief Security Officers (CSOs) around the world are building out teams of highly skilled cybersecurity experts to help buffer their organization’s security, there is an obvious skills gap emerging within this small, specialized talent pool.
If looking to get into cybersecurity or grow a career within this rapidly growing industry, we have identified 7 highly in-demand skills that can help set an applicant apart.
Written communication skills/technical writing
Companies often require their security teams to document their processes in detail and communicate complicated technical processes to nontechnical professionals. Translating technical ideas and jargon in a way that is easy to understand for non-technical stakeholders is an important skill for cybersecurity professionals to develop.
If looking to improve technical communication skills, consider taking this course on Udemy, or another online technical writing certification program. Once a course is completed, the certificate can be added into the skills & certificates portion of one’s LinkedIn and resume.
Operating system knowledge
Proficiency in multiple systems can increase a candidate’s appeal to employers who may want to change their systems in the future, or have employees working on a variety of different software and systems. Applicants with diverse application and software knowledge are increasingly valuable as many companies are embracing digital innovation in 2021.
Many operating systems and software companies offer free online tutorials or trial periods, such as Microsoft, Linux, and Android. While the depth of knowledge required will vary by role, a basic understanding of various programs may help differentiate oneself.
Database management
Database management requires precision and typically requires the ability to read and use SQL.
Consider enrolling in Code Academy or another similar certification class. This website offers lessons in Python, JavaScript, HTML, CSS and many more.
Crisis response
Cybersecurity professionals must be able to handle any IT threats quickly, calmly and efficiently. Strong candidates should be able to demonstrate their ability to tackle malware, ransomware, phishing, Advanced Persistent Threats, Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, and more.
Consider taking a course introducing the basics of how to contain and safely analyze malicious links or suspicious files, such as this one.
Mobile device management
Especially as remote work is likely to continue to increase in popularity even after the pandemic, cybersecurity professionals will be needed to help secure individuals’ smartphones, tablets, and laptops. Having experience or a strong knowledge of mobile device and personal network security will be increasingly important moving forward.
Consider earning a Mobile Device Management Certification, available online here.
Digital forensics
Strong candidates should be familiar with IT forensics and tools used to find inconsistencies or dangerous activity on the network.
Common forensic toolkits to become familiar with include Autopsy and The Sleuth Kit.
Certifications to consider
The CompTIA Cybersecurity, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), and Global Information Assurance Certifications (GIAC) are all highly in-demand certifications for those looking to advance their career within cybersecurity.
Many certification courses can be taken online and are valuable additions to a resume.
This is a highly promising time for IT and cybersecurity professionals to get a foot in the door or advance their career within a growing industry as a valued professional. Upskilling on these much-needed skillsets can help set a candidate apart.
If you’re interested in advancing your career in cybersecurity, view our open roles here.
