Why you need to consider a career in cyber security, now!

If you are thinking about a change of career and looking to go into an industry where jobs are plentiful, growth opportunities are exciting and earning potential is unlimited then cyber security is a sector that you’d be foolish not to consider.

The great shortage: It is estimated that by 2021 there will be over 3.5 million¹ positions unfilled in this industry across the globe.  Additionally, 59%² of organisations believe their companies are at risk of a cyber-attack due to the shortage of talent within their organisation.

You are entitled to ask how this huge shortage has come about and why organisations haven’t done enough to curb this threat by hiring people to protect their infrastructure.

The problem is that the technology, software, cloud computing and user habits are changing faster than people can adapt to in this new industry.  Traditionally, organisations would hire IT professionals with many years of experience or university graduates with a degree in software, computing or programming.  Whilst this maybe a standard approach in many other careers, in the world of cyber security, the technology is moving faster than a graduate can complete a degree, and experience from 5 years ago, is no longer relevant. 

No experience required: Recruiters are therefore realising the fact that they will only fill these talent shortages by hiring, street-smart, savvy, quick learning individuals who may not have the experience but have good problem solving and communication skills and are passionate about the industry and hold some up-to-date qualifications related to the industry. 

These individuals then have the attributes to quickly adapt to the needs of the industry and play their part in keeping the growing number of hacking attempts at bay.

Opportunities will grow: As the number of cyber incidents grow and the impact they have on organisations intensifies, the demand for cyber security experts will only increase and companies will have no choice but to become more open-minded to the types of people they hire.  This will be the only way the huge global shortage can be filled.

A pathway into this industry: It is estimated that currently, over 33%¹ of all cyber security executives across the world arrived into this industry via a non-technical career.  It is estimated that this number will only increase as demand outstrips supply. 

It is therefore primetime for those individuals that have an interest in the industry, who may have no IT experience but have good problem solving and communication skills, to get some up-to-date professional qualifications and take advantage of the opportunities that lay ahead.

Professional courses: Whether you have absolutely no experience in the industry or you are an IT professional, speak to one of our cyber security specialists and we will provide you expert advice on which pathway would be most suitable for you. 

We have a wide range of options that fit around your budget, your career goals and learning options, including online or classroom training options all available.

Call us on +44 (0) 20 3198 7700 to speak to one of our Career Consultants today, to discuss your career goals or get started.

Source: ¹ Forbes, ² ISC2