I am very excited to have finally launched SOS. After posting SOS’ initial blog, 5 Tips to Land a Job in Cyber (err...) Information Security, there are a million more topics running through my head to discuss with you.

This final tip for landing a job in Information Security is just as important as everything else you bring with you to your interview. Be honest with your interviewer and do not try to sell yourself as someone you are not.

Jobs titled Cyber Security, Information Security, or Information Assurance have the tendency to be listed in the minority of those posted in the I.T. classifieds. When Information Security jobs are clearly identified, job requirements often consist of an ambiguous collection of acronyms, certifications, industry standards, and software products. Applicants are left either knowing at sight what all of the jargon means, or have no idea what the job actually entails.

Here is another little secret that is seldom shared. Very few people start their careers in the Information Security field. Two paths into the field are usually taken. The first path is taken by I.T. personnel that are forced to deal with Information Security either because their company was hacked, or because their company was forced to address security governance and compliance requirements. The second path is taken as I.T. professionals intentionally enhance their professional skills and marketability by obtaining Information Security education and certifications. The second path has also resulted in the emergence of educated, but generally inexperienced graduates. 

Ask yourself where your career path is leading you in I.T. and consider similar paths with Information Security careers. Understand the small differences in these categories between I.T. and Information Security and distinguish yourself by crafting your resume to show where your career interests and technical skills fit.

It’s not enough to be the best systems administrator or network engineer in the company you are working for. If you do not live where information technology jobs are, you will face fewer options and greater competition. When you begin your job search, look toward job markets where your chances will be greatest. Salaries will also trend higher where more jobs than qualified candidates exist. Use this to your advantage.