In our related blog, we looked at the recent trends we’ve been seeing in cyber- security, which is struggling to cope with unprecedented need. Post-Covid, cyber is more important than ever – and it was already underinvested. Now, however, threats are on the rise, and they are getting more creative, leaving customers, businesses and companies increasingly vulnerable.
Not only are salary and day-rates hitting new heights, but newer, richer roles are emerging in cyber, with a shift toward people who are not only technical but who can also liaise directly with clients and report directly to management.
The consultative and forward-thinking approach is becoming more important as cyber becomes more ‘centre-stage’ – companies are moving away from experts who are hidden away, as they have a lot of value to offer, which is being recognised at last.
In terms of more technical skills, we’ve seen a growing focus on supply chain cyber security risks with our current clients – and we expect this to continue to grow.
In terms of future skills forecasting, we’re anticipating even more demand in:
- Risk Identification and Management
- Technical Fundamentals
- Data Management and Analysis
- DevSecOps (introducing security earlier in the life cycle of application development)
- Cloud
- Automation
- Threat-hunting
- Interpersonal skills, business acumen, and agility
Interestingly, we’re also seeing the emergence of a new discipline: Security Ops – the hybrid of DevOps and Cloud with security, as organisations want their cyber infrastructure teams to be able to communicate with the business and supply a “customer ready” solution.How to stay relevant in the market
“In cybersecurity, if you’re standing still, you’re moving backwards.”
Employers need people who have a real world, user-focused approach – not a textbook approach. They want a team of cyber experts who really understand the potential impact of cybersecurity threats on their business and users – not only now, but in the future, and in many potential scenarios.
The employment landscape is increasingly favouring those who can explain the value of their work to clients and senior managers directly. Success is favouring engaged experts who continually examine and challenge their environment, constantly learning and evolving:
- Showcase your ‘soft skills’ – these are increasingly important as cyber professionals are respected for their role in business continuity and commercial success.
- Share and shout about your successes: what problems did you encounter and how did you approach them? Get involved in blogs, LinkedIn groups, professional groups, post your code on GitHub…make yourself known to professionals in your discipline.
- Self-development is key, so continue training and learning on the job, and make sure to recertify in the major technologies.
The landscape has changed: it’s not enough now to just be good at your core discipline. Make sure you are showing the range of competencies you can offer beyond your technical skills. It’s time to be proud of what you can do, as it’s now more valuable than ever.
Read our related blog for a view on what we’ve witnessed in the cyber market over the last 12-18 months.
If you’re looking for your next career change, we’re here to help. Experis is the global leader in professional IT resourcing and solutions, operating in more than 50 countries worldwide. Thanks to our expert industry knowledge, history of success and strong relationships with organisations large and small, we’re well-equipped to share market insights like these and match specialist IT professionals into permanent and contract assignments. Browse all our current job opportunities here.
