5 Signs You’re Ready for a Cybersecurity Career
If you’re reading this, chances are you’ve thought about pursuing a new career in tech but aren’t sure where to start. Instead of trying to guess whether or not cybersecurity training suits you, consider the following signs that you may be ready to embark on this exciting in-demand career path.
1. You Feel Stuck in Your Current Career
Do you find yourself scrolling through new job opportunities or daydreaming about ways to increase your earning potential? Perhaps you should consider a fresh start or a way to advance your career.
It’s not uncommon for recent grads or professionals of any background to feel like they’re missing out on untapped potential. This can signify that you’re feeling stuck and ready for a new challenge. Why not start a meaningful career in cybersecurity?
![frustrated person sitting in front of her laptop as she is looking for a new career](https://d66zyqiyr62hs.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/frustrated-female-1024x683.jpg)
The industry currently has more open positions than skilled workers to fill them. Even if your current experience isn’t in tech, you could be on your way to a new career in cybersecurity in less than a year.
According to the 2022 Technology Spending Intentions Survey, 69% of organizations are increasing their cybersecurity budgets. The industry is bursting with opportunity and is open to anyone willing to develop the skills needed to break into this in-demand industry.
2. You Want Remote Work Without Compromising on Salary
The secret is out: organizations of all sizes and industries can function effectively with remote workers. So, if you’re looking to earn a cybersecurity salary while working remotely, it might be time to consider a career change.
According to salary.com, entry-level salaries for Cybersecurity Analysts in New Jersey average $80,740 a year. Additionally, ziprecruiter.com reports the average annual pay for cybersecurity jobs in New Jersey is $111,189 a year.
While salaries always depend on experience, skill, location and many other factors, the need for trained cybersecurity professionals continues to increase, meaning remote and hybrid work arrangements are here to stay.
If anything good came from the recent pandemic, it was employee demand for more flexibility in their work schedule. Changes have resulted in an office environment we have never seen before, with more hybrid remote job positions.
3. You Are Endlessly Curious
Are you inherently inquisitive and endlessly searching for answers? If so, you’ll be fascinated by the tools, software and methodologies cybersecurity professionals use.
If you’re always ready to learn something new and challenge the status quo, a career in cybersecurity can help quench your endless curiosity. Professionals in this industry are never satisfied with easy answers when looking for the best solution.
The industry is on the hunt for lifelong learners with a strong desire to solve problems and prevent them from happening in the first place.
Cyberattacks are often the work of inquiring minds who thrive on breaking into secure systems. Satisfy your curiosity by training to outsmart attackers.
![Cybersecurity professional writing code at his computer](https://d66zyqiyr62hs.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/coder-employee-1024x683.jpg)
4. You’re a Natural Problem-Solver
Natural problem solvers are often described as non-linear thinkers with a strong ability to view problems from every perspective. If you thrive on solving puzzles, learning new languages or mastering logic exercises, a career in cybersecurity could be a great fit for you.
Do you consider yourself someone who likes to follow a step-by-step approach to solving problems? Do you view problems as an opportunity in disguise?
Cybersecurity professionals exhibit meticulous attention to detail, from mitigating attacks and identifying bugs to decoding ciphers. Each approach relies on creative solutions.
If this excites you, put your problem-solving skills to work and start training for a career in cybersecurity.
5. Communication is One of Your Strengths
Working as a cybersecurity professional requires strong communication skills. From entry-level positions, such as Cybersecurity Analyst roles, to senior positions, including Chief Information Security Officers (CISO), every cyber professional should master converting technical knowledge into meaningful information.
A successful professional effectively explains strategies, findings and solutions to other teams and departments within an organization. If you are a master communicator who can speak and write clearly and concisely, elevating your skills with cybersecurity training might unlock a whole new set of career opportunities in tech.
Start Your Cybersecurity Career with Job-Ready Skills
Notice how we did not mention needing tech or cybersecurity experience? That’s because, with the right training, anyone can become a cybersecurity professional.
With the NJIT Cybersecurity Professional Bootcamp, you’ll gain the skills to become a cyber professional in just 10 months—regardless of your current experience level.
Throughout this accelerated, part-time program, you will follow an updated curriculum taught by expert instructors who currently work in the field. As you train with experts via project-based challenges, you’ll solve real-world issues faced by professionals.
![Cybersecurity bootcamp student sitting at desk, working on laptop](https://d66zyqiyr62hs.cloudfront.net/wp-content/uploads/student-1024x683.jpg)
Thanks to our comprehensive curriculum, students are equipped with the skills needed to pursue globally-recognized cybersecurity certifications.
For even greater success, tap into our extensive career services throughout the program. By the time you’re ready to find a job, you will have perfected your resume and LinkedIn profile and gained the confidence to interview with ease.
Still on the fence? Take our 30-hour Introductory Course to test-drive our online curriculum. You’ll get a feel for the learning environment and preview the opportunities available to help you decide if this career path is right for you. Fill out the form below to get started.
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