Security consulting is becoming increasingly popular and important. There is a rise in cybercrimes, which pose serious threats to businesses and organizations. According to statistics, in 2021 alone, at least 4,100 data breaches globally exposed over 22 billion data records.
Due to such occurrences, it is necessary to employ consultants. A cybersecurity consultant is a professional tasked with analyzing and testing vulnerabilities. Such vulnerabilities occur in computer systems, networks, and software programs. These consultants aim to produce the best solutions to protect an organization’s data against hackers.
So, what can you do to become a security consultant?
Steps to Take to Become a Consultant
There’s no specific career path to follow to become a successful security consultant. However, here are five steps that you should consider:
1. Pursue a Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree
A degree can give you an upper hand in securing an entry-level position, unlike in recent years when certification was not mandatory. Practical skills are necessary, but earning a degree in the relevant field gives you technical skills.
If you want to become a security consultant, pursue a degree in computer science, information technology, or cyber security. Engineering is also an excellent field to look into if this is your career of choice.
2. Gain Work Experience
After completing your course, look for opportunities related to cyber security. Sometimes, you might not find specific security consultant work. However, this shouldn’t be a major concern since security-related jobs are also suitable.
The main aim is to interact with different tasks and gain additional skills. So, when a consultancy opportunity comes up, you’ll be ready for the job.
3. Acquire Relevant Certification
You might want to consider gaining hands-on knowledge and skills that come from acquiring a certificate. Some recognized certificates for cybersecurity worth pursuing include:
- Global Information Assurance
- CompTIA Security+
- Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification
- ISACA certifications
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
- GIAC Security Essentials Certification (GSEC)
- Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
4. Start a Private Cybersecurity Consultant Service
After gaining skills and hands-on experience, it becomes less difficult to start your own company. Starting your consultancy firm gives allows you to deal with clients directly.
Within no time, you’ll build your customer base and establish your career in cybersecurity. Although working in established companies has benefits, becoming your own boss also has its share of advantages. So, consider taking the leap by starting your own firm.
Job Skills that Make You a Better Security Consultant
Having enough interpersonal and technical skills makes you a better consultant. In addition, you must develop systems that are up to date with the latest technologies in the cybersecurity field.
You must also have great communication skills, making it easier to work with your team. Other relevant skills include:
- Ethical standards in coding and hacking
- Knowledge of potential cyber threats
- Skills in operating systems, like Windows and Linus
- Expertise in programming languages
- Knowledge of encryption techniques
- Project management and leadership skills
- Desire to improve and learn new skills
Starting your career in the field of cybersecurity needs passion and the drive to keep skills updated. Although getting a degree is not a must, it places you at an advantage against other consultants. At the end of the day, your well-rounded skills will make you successful.
