The pandemic has had a dramatic impact on unemployment rates, and millions of Americans are still without jobs. Many of us have been forced to rethink our career paths, and are looking to enter into an industry where they’ll have job security should this happen again. However, one thing is clear, cyber security jobs are here to stay.

How has the cyber security industry benefited from the pandemic? 

Cyber security has been one of the few industries that have actually benefited from the pandemic. Threats like ransomware, phishing, and malware have quickly adapted to a remote environment; much faster than the employees could. In fact, recent FBI studies have shown that cyber attacks have seen a staggering 400% increase in the last few months. Google even reported that it blocked close to 18 million malware and phishing emails in the span of a week. This wake up call has forced businesses to put more focus on improving their security measures and hire professionals who are highly skilled in this area.

Is a career in cyber security worth exploring during the pandemic?

Although a traditional four-year college degree has it’s benefits, it’s not an ideal situation for many job seekers right now. So if you’re looking to get into something quickly and are financially strained, cyber security might be the move. Most entry-level cyber security jobs don’t require a four year degree. You can learn all the necessary cyber security skills you need through online classes and certifications. Because cyber security is ever-changing, you definitely won’t experience a shortage of resources. 

How are companies handling the need for more cyber security professionals?

The ability to find an entry-level role will get easier, as higher level positions will need to pass entry level tasks down so they can handle the big ones. Because cyber security attacks are such a major issue right now, the C-suite executives will likely give cyber security professionals in the organization more autonomy, and allow them to source for entry-level positions. Executives are well aware that remote working may become a permanent solution for the unforeseeable future. At the beginning of the pandemic, we saw a lot of temporary cyber security hires, with the idea that we’d be going “back to normal” soon. But now, companies are looking to keep cyber security professionals in long term roles. 

If I’m going to apply for an entry-level cyber security role, how do I stand out to employers? 

While it is important to be knowledgeable on technicalities and tools in cyber security, it’s more important to employers that you have a core understanding of the threats and topics the industry is dealing with right now. Also, be as honest as you can. Don’t oversell yourself or try to hide your weaknesses. Be up front about what you do and don’t know, and how you plan to educate yourself. You’ll also want to prove that you can work well remotely. 

Is your organization in need of additional cyber security measures during the pandemic and beyond? Thinline Technologies can help! Contact us online today.