I’d like to know what career pathways, what education, certification is needed in order to become a CyberSecurity consultant, either part time or full time. How does one build clientele? How does one begin to earn a name for his/herself? What are the first steps? What are some of the major challenges and how does one overcome them?
Answers
I’d suggest that you network at the target company or industry. Use LinkedIn to find people already working there and reach out to them. Ask them the process they used to get hired and ask them to help you navigate the hiring process and if they are willing, ask them to submit you as a referral. These activities require much more time on your part but in my opinion would greatly increase your chances for success. Good luck!
Hello Mark,
Many thanks for your question. IBM has several career options that would fall under the heading of consultant. They cross many of our products and services organizations. In fact, depending on your specific discipline there could be a wide range of flexibility. I'm fully open to discuss various strategies for managing your transition.
John
USAF Veteran
Hello Mark - personally for me I've found there's not much difference between work in the military and work in the civilian world. There are times when you work 9 to 5 and other times you are heads down working through the weekend. You'll still have to manage "work/life" but I don't think it will be as difficult as you imagine. In fact, I might even say you'll have more flexibility in the civilian world then you did in the military.
Mark - Great to meet you virtually and thanks for serving. I will defer to some other IBM colleagues in the cybersecurity space who might have more specific advice to offer on cybersecurity certificate and pathways.
I made a transition from 0-3 to civilian life years ago and found some basic research and strategy skill that might help with your question: use no-cost platforms like LinkedIn or Indeed to research exactly the question you pose. In addition to actively sharpening your own digital profile on Linked In, actively comb through job postings, and look at peers that have the job you want 1) see what credentials they profile 2) see how they discuss their accomplishments 3) see how they frame their value 4) look at their career paths. Companies are very clear in about which certificates they want to see in their job postings. Hope this is helpful from a general sense.
Mark, great question..........9 to 5 is just a boundary of time. Being a consultant allows more flexibility and time for finding answers. Being a consultant is self governed and time management skills. I have always been a consultant after leaving the Navy. Wouldn't have it anyother way.........again, thanks for asking!
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