The Career Compass #23: DeepSeek, Cybersecurity Careers & Career Coaching: What You Should Know

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Welcome to the 23rd Edition of The Career Compass!

Another week, another opportunity to take control of your cybersecurity career! Whether you’re just starting or looking to move up, this edition is packed with expert insights, industry trends, and career strategies to help you make informed decisions. Let's dive in!

In the News and Trends

DeepSeek: China’s Open-Source LLM and Its Security Implications

DeepSeek has entered the AI space as one of China’s most prominent open-source large language models (LLM), rivaling Western AI models like OpenAI’s GPT and Google’s Gemini. Its open-source nature allows for accessibility and innovation but also introduces significant security concerns, particularly regarding data privacy, misinformation, and cybersecurity risks.

Global Adoption vs. Security Risks—While DeepSeek’s open-source approach encourages development and transparency, it also raises concerns about potential backdoor vulnerabilities, state-sponsored cyber activities, and the spread of AI-generated disinformation. The model's accessibility allows both ethical researchers and bad actors to explore its full capabilities, making security a major discussion point.

Implications for Cybersecurity – With LLMs becoming more advanced, DeepSeek could be exploited for cybercriminal activities, including:

• Automated phishing campaigns that generate compelling fake emails.

• Malicious code generation, potentially helping attackers create sophisticated malware.

• AI-powered social engineering, where chatbots could impersonate real users.

Regulatory Scrutiny – Governments worldwide closely monitor how DeepSeek and similar models operate under global cybersecurity frameworks, AI ethics policies, and data protection laws. China's role in AI development is a growing concern for Western regulators, leading to debates on AI governance and international security policies.

As DeepSeek gains traction, it highlights the ongoing challenges of balancing AI innovation with security and regulation. Organisations adopting AI-powered tools must know the risks and implement strict safeguards to prevent misuse.

Cybersecurity Workforce Trends: Growth, Automation, and the AI Effect

As the demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, the industry faces challenges and transformations. The workforce gap remains significant, but automation and AI-driven solutions are beginning to change how organisations approach hiring and skills development.

🔹 Unfilled Cybersecurity Roles—Reports indicate that a large number of cybersecurity jobs remain unfilled globally, straining existing security teams. However, as AI-driven security tools become more sophisticated, companies are rethinking workforce strategies, integrating automation with human expertise rather than solely focusing on headcount increases.

🔹 A Shift Toward Skills-Based Hiring—Organisations are shifting away from traditional degree requirements and focusing more on certifications, practical skills, and problem-solving abilities. Cybersecurity boot camps, online courses, and self-taught skills are becoming more valued, opening doors for career changers and newcomers.

🔹 The Role of AI in Cybersecurity Training – AI-driven learning platforms are being used to personalise training, simulate real-world cyberattacks, and enhance skill-building at scale. Companies are investing in AI-enhanced cybersecurity education to close the skills gap more efficiently and prepare professionals for evolving threats.

Cybersecurity professionals who stay ahead of these trends—by embracing continuous learning, hands-on experience, and AI integration—will be well-positioned for career growth in the coming years.

The Surge in Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) Attacks

Cybercriminals are increasingly offering ransomware-as-a-service, allowing less sophisticated attackers to execute high-impact ransomware campaigns.

Lower Barrier to Entry – RaaS enables attackers with limited technical knowledge to launch ransomware attacks by purchasing pre-built malicious tools. Industries Most at Risk – Healthcare, education, and financial services remain the top targets due to their reliance on sensitive data. Prevention Strategies – Organisations must prioritise stronger endpoint protection, employee training, and robust data backup strategies to mitigate risks.

Staying informed about these developments is crucial for cybersecurity professionals and businesses looking to protect themselves from emerging threats.

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Video of the Week: Top 5 Cybersecurity Certifications in 2025

Are you looking to break into cybersecurity in 2025? Certifications are one of the best ways to build credibility and land your first job. In this video, I’ll walk you through the Top 5 Entry-Level Cybersecurity Certifications that will boost your chances of success in the industry.

Note: AWS/Azure certifications are not technically entry-level, but if you’re looking to specialise in cloud security, these are ones you should definitely consider.

Why Career Coaching Isn't Just Another Expense – It's Your Career's Best Investment

1. The Hidden Costs of Not Having Career Guidance

Without professional guidance, you may unknowingly be missing out on opportunities and making costly mistakes:

• Missed Promotions & Better Offers – Without a clear strategy, you could be passing up higher-paying roles or career-changing opportunities.

• Longer Job Searches – A weak resume, outdated LinkedIn profile, or lack of strategy can extend your job search by months, delaying your career growth.

• Salary Negotiation Pitfalls – Many professionals undervalue themselves, leaving thousands of dollars on the table over their careers.

A career coach helps you identify and seize opportunities, streamline your job search, and negotiate confidently to maximise your earning potential.

2. The Real ROI of Career Coaching

Career coaching isn't just about advice—it's about measurable results. Here's how clients see a return on their investment:

• Faster Job Placements – Targeted strategies, refined resumes, and better interview skills help clients land jobs much quicker.

• Higher Salaries – Salary negotiation coaching can lead to 10-20%+ salary increases.

• Successful Career Transitions – Coaching provides a step-by-step roadmap to a smooth transition for those looking to pivot industries or roles.

Think of career coaching as an investment with compounding returns—better decisions today lead to exponential career growth tomorrow.

3. How Coaching Can Transform Your Career

Career coaching isn't one-size-fits-all; it's customised to your career goals. Here are some of the key areas where coaching makes a major impact:

Personal Branding – Position yourself as a top candidate with a standout resume and LinkedIn profile.

Interview Preparation – Master behavioural and technical interviews with mock sessions and feedback.

Career Clarity – Discover your strengths, values, and goals to align your career with your passions.  

Networking Strategies – Build meaningful connections and tap into hidden job opportunities.  Leadership Development – Learn how to transition into management or executive roles.

No matter where you are in your career, coaching helps you level up where it matters most.

4. Overcoming Career Challenges with Coaching

Everyone faces career obstacles, but a coach can help you overcome them with tailored solutions:

Lack of Confidence? Coaching builds self-awareness and confidence through personalised feedback and training. Feeling Stuck in Your Career? A coach helps you develop an action plan to secure a promotion or pivot into a new role. Struggling in the Job Market? Coaches provide structure, accountability, and expert strategies to navigate the job search effectively.

Challenges become opportunities for growth and success with a coach by your side.

5. Are You Ready for Career Coaching?

Career coaching is for those who are ready to take action. Here's how to know if it’s time:

✅ You feel stuck or unfulfilled in your current role.
✅ You’re ready to make a career change but don’t know where to start.
✅ You want to accelerate your career growth and land a promotion.
✅ You’re tired of applying to jobs without success.
✅ You’re ready to commit to achieving your goals.

If any of these sound like you, career coaching could be the catalyst you need to move forward.

Want to learn more? Book a free consultation today and discover how career coaching can help you unlock your full potential!

For more resources and personalised coaching, visit www.lukegough.com or email [email protected]

Challenge of the Week

Want to level up your career this week? Take on this challenge and step outside your comfort zone:

Challenge:

• Engage with your cybersecurity community! Post an insightful cybersecurity topic on LinkedIn or Twitter, share a recent industry update, or comment on a post from a cybersecurity professional.

• Bonus: Reach out to someone in your network and start a conversation about career growth or industry trends.

Small actions like these increase your visibility, build connections, and create new opportunities!

Final Thoughts

The cybersecurity industry is booming, and with the right strategy, you can take full advantage of its growth. Whether it’s earning the right certifications, staying ahead of industry trends, or investing in career coaching, the steps you take today will shape your success tomorrow.

What’s your biggest career challenge right now? Hit reply and let me know—I’d love to help!

Thanks for being part of The Career Compass community—I’m here to support you every step of the way! Keep levelling up your career, and I'll see you in the next edition!

Best Wishes

Luke

P.S. Don’t forget to share The Career Compass with anyone who might benefit from it. Let’s grow our community and empower each other on this journey!