Certifications won’t get you a job. Your knowledge, ability to showcase your knowledge, and your connections are what will get you the job. Studying for IT certifications shouldn’t be your priority. Instead, you should build a strong understanding of the fundamentals, learn some tools, and build positive relationships with people. Through your learning, practice, and peer review, you will develop knowledge that can be used to pass certification exams.
While certifications can beef up your resume and demonstrate a commitment to your profession, most hiring managers and interviewers won’t be impressed or care too much about them. You might get asked about them while reviewing your resume but the hiring interviewers are going to be assessing your knowledge, skills, and ability to partner with others.
Employers are on the lookout for problem-solvers, innovators, and those who can adapt and grow. They also want to find people that can work with them and others. It mostly comes down to answering these questions for hiring managers:
- Is this person easy to get along with, or do they have difficulty making connections?
- How long will it take to train this person for the position?
- How much guidance will this person require?
With that said, there are some things you can do to increase your chances of getting hired.
Build Strong Foundations
First and foremost, you need an understanding of the tech you work with. It’s not just about memorizing terms or passing exams; it’s about genuinely grasping the concepts, understanding the ins and outs, and being able to troubleshoot and innovate. Real-world problems won’t come with a multiple-choice solution laid-out for you, so your ability to think critically and apply your knowledge is what will set you apart.
Build a Portfolio
Having the skill is one thing, but showing it off is another. Build projects, contribute to open source, blog about your learning journey, or even create content that demonstrates your expertise. These tangible proofs of your ability speak volumes more than a certificate ever could. They show potential employers not just that you know what you’re doing, but that you’re passionate and proactive about it.
Build Connections
The cybersecurity community is incredibly interconnected. Engaging with the community through meetups, forums, and social platforms can open doors that certifications alone cannot. It’s possible that opportunities will arise through these connections. Someone you meet at a conference or online could be the bridge to your next big break.
The Bottom Line
As you work on your career in cybersecurity, focus on what moves the needle. Dive deep into learning, showcase your skills in real-world projects, and connect with people in the community. These are the keys to not just landing a job, but building a fulfilling career. Certifications might have their place, but they’re not the whole story. Let’s write our own success stories, ones that are rich in knowledge, experience, and connections.
