5 Tips to Break into IT and Cybersecurity

After spending over a decade in the IT industry, moving from IT generalist work to desktop support to cybersecurity, I've learned that this field is challenging and rewarding. While the tech industry always changes, one thing remains constant: it's an excellent career choice for those passionate about technology and willing to put in the work.

The Reality Check

Let me start with some honest truth: there's no magic formula for success in IT. Despite what you might read online or what some influencers may say, there's no single certification, degree, or connection that guarantees your dream job. For most of us, including myself, it takes years of working in entry-level positions to develop the expertise needed for specialization. In fact, I spent eight years in IT before crossing the $40,000 salary mark. While some people may be able to immediately get a high-paying salary in a specialized area of IT, this is not the norm. 99% of people getting into IT are going to have to start from the bottom.

But don't let that discourage you. Instead, let me share five strategies that can help set you up for success in this competitive field.

1. Build A Digital Portfolio

Your online portfolio is your digital handshake. Whether it's through LinkedIn, YouTube, TikTok, or a personal website built on platforms like Wix or Weebly, you need a space to showcase your passion, skills, and journey. The platform choice isn't as important as the content you create and share.

I would recommend documenting at least some of the following in some capacity:

• Job changes

• Acquiring certifications or degrees

• Starting, meeting milestones on, or completing projects

• Industry relevant articles and books read - with analysis

• Analysis of industry relevant topics/technologies

• Things you have learned working in or trying to get into the industry

Pro tip: If your main portfolio lives outside LinkedIn, make regular LinkedIn posts about your content to increase visibility and reach. Remember, your digital presence is often your first impression on potential employers.

2. Strategize Your IT Certifications

There seems to currently be a trend in IT and Cybersecurity specifically where aspiring professionals try to rack up as many certifications as possible - getting their A+, Net+, Sec+, and others before ever landing a job or looking at the market.

Let me be clear, certifications are often required for many jobs in IT, but going with a spray and pray approach isn't going to get you much success. On top of that, certification costs add up with exam fees, study material fees, renewal fees, continuing education costs, etc. Don't drown in costs for no reason.

Instead, you should have a strategy for how you approach certifications. Look at job postings for the types of jobs you want to have, and tailor your pursuit of certs towards those!

While certifications alone won't secure you a job, lacking certain certifications can definitely keep you from getting one. Here's what you should know:

• For networking roles: Network+ and/or CCNA are often expected

• For cybersecurity positions: Security+ is typically a baseline requirement

• For desktop support/helpdesk: A+ is usually desired

But these are just generalizations. If you're looking to break into a role, research what certifications are required for those roles before just acquiring a lot of certifications.

Here's a valuable tip: When applying for jobs, list certifications you're pursuing with "In Progress" or "Expected by [date]" on your resume. This can help you bypass automated filtering systems while showing initiative.

3. Tailor Your Resume for Every Application

Job applications aren't a numbers game – they're a matching game. Your resume needs to mirror the job description's keywords to survive automated filtering systems, which can eliminate a minimum of 50% of applications before human eyes ever see them.

For every job you apply for, you should be ensuring that your experience, education, projects, skills, etc. match keywords with what the job description is looking for.

For example, if you are applying for an identity and access management role that requires experience in Entra ID, but your resume doesn't explicitly mention Entra ID, you will not be considered for the job. Period.

Look at the job description and requirements, and make sure that your resume matches the key words found in it. HR and Hiring Manager's goal is to find the best match for the job - don't let your resume indicate that you're not a good match.

Think quality over quantity: Twenty carefully tailored applications will likely yield better results than 200 generic submissions. Yes, it's more work upfront, but the improved response rate makes it worthwhile.

4. Embrace Continuous Learning

In today's competitive job market, standing out requires going above and beyond. If you aren't learning, you aren't growing.

The most talented security architect who stops learning and growing will eventually fall behind the junior service desk analyst who is dedicated to constant learning and growth over the course of their career.

Regardless of what position you are currently in, there are resources you can use to continually learn and develop for your next role.

Use free resources like:

• TryHackMe for hands-on cybersecurity experience

• Coursera for structured learning paths

• FreeCodeCamp for programming fundamentals

• EC-Council for concept-based cybersecurity training

• TCM Security for hands-on cybersecurity experience

These platforms offer certificates upon completion to show your new skills and dedication. More importantly, they give you practical projects to feature in your portfolio and discuss during interviews.

5. Don't Underestimate Soft Skills

Technical skills might get you the interview, but soft skills get you the offer.

In my experience, focusing on three key areas has proven most effective:

• Communication: The ability to explain complex concepts simply

• Curiosity: A genuine desire to understand how things work

• Creativity: The capacity to approach problems from different angles

During interviews, weave these soft skills into your responses. Show how they've helped you tackle real challenges and create meaningful impact. This approach can help you edge out candidates with similar or even superior technical qualifications.

Final Thoughts

Breaking into IT requires persistence, strategic planning, and continuous self-improvement. While the journey might be longer than expected, the opportunities for growth and advancement make it worthwhile. Remember, everyone's path is different – focus on building your unique combination of skills, experiences, and qualities that make you valuable to potential employers.

The tech industry always needs people who are passionate, dedicated, and willing to learn. If that describes you, then you're already on the right path. Keep pushing forward, stay curious, and never stop learning.

Author's Note: This advice comes from personal experience in the IT industry, including years of mentoring new professionals. Even though the IT market is always changing and developing, these tips stay relevant for those starting or advancing their careers.