Welcome to the fifth edition of Career Compass by Avidity! 🚀 In this issue, we’re diving into how you can excel in job interviews, tackle career burnout, and keep up with the latest in cybersecurity. Whether you’re preparing for a career move, feeling the effects of burnout, or simply staying informed in cybersecurity, we’ve got the tips and insights you need.

Mastering Job Interviews: How to Stand Out in the Follow-Up

You’ve aced the interview; now it’s time to make a lasting impression. Here’s how to craft an effective follow-up to keep your name top of mind:

1. Personalise Your Message: Always mention specific topics discussed during the interview. This shows that you were engaged and helps the hiring manager remember you.

Example: “Thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. I particularly enjoyed our discussion on [specific project or challenge].”

2. Reaffirm Your Interest: Use your follow-up to reiterate your enthusiasm for the role and why you’re the perfect fit. Highlight any skills that directly relate to what was discussed.

3. Add Value: If you have any resources or ideas related to the topics covered in the interview, don’t hesitate to share them. This can showcase your proactive approach and thought leadership.

4. Timing is Key: Send your follow-up within 24 hours of the interview. This ensures you stay fresh in the interviewer’s mind while demonstrating your promptness and professionalism.

Effective follow-up can be the difference between being a candidate and being the chosen candidate—take that extra step to stand out!

Career Advice: Overcoming Burnout and Staying Motivated

Burnout is a real challenge, especially in high-pressure industries. Here are some practical strategies to stay motivated and protect your well-being:

1. Recognise Early Warning Signs: If you consistently feel exhausted, detached, or unproductive, these are classic signs of burnout. Recognising them early is crucial to prevent escalation.

2. Set Realistic Boundaries: Creating work-life boundaries is essential for maintaining long-term motivation. Switch off after work hours and take breaks when needed.

Personal anecdote: During an especially busy recruitment period, I found myself on the brink of burnout. Setting a clear boundary to end work at a specific time each day helped me regain control, recharge, and ultimately become more effective.

3. Reconnect with Your Purpose: Revisit why you chose your career in the first place. Aligning your day-to-day activities with your long-term career goals can bring a renewed sense of purpose.

4. Take Regular Breaks: Incorporate short breaks throughout the day to reset. It might be a short walk, meditation, or simply stepping away from your desk.

News Update: The Recent Qantas Data Breach

This month, Qantas, one of Australia’s largest airlines, experienced a significant data breach, affecting the personal information of many customers. Here’s what happened and how it may impact you:

• What Happened: The breach involved unauthorised access to a third-party system that contained personal details such as names, addresses, and frequent flyer information of Qantas customers.

• Impact: Although financial information was not compromised, the exposed personal data could be used for phishing attempts or social engineering attacks. Customers are urged to be extra vigilant about any unusual activity related to their accounts.

• What You Should Do: If you are a Qantas customer, consider taking the following precautions:

• Change Your Password: Update your Qantas account password and other accounts that may have used similar credentials.

• Beware of Phishing: Be cautious of unexpected emails or messages claiming to be from Qantas, especially if they request personal information.

• Monitor Your Accounts: Check your frequent flyer account and other associated accounts for unauthorised activity.

Data breaches like this remind us of the importance of strong passwords and vigilance when it comes to personal information. Stay informed and protect yourself by following best practices in cybersecurity.

U.S. and Microsoft Seize 107 Russian Domains in Major Cyber Fraud Crackdown

In a significant move to disrupt cybercriminal activities, the U.S. government, in collaboration with Microsoft, has seized 107 domains used by Russian cybercriminals in various fraud operations. Here’s what you need to know:

• What Happened: The operation targeted a network of domains used for cyber fraud schemes, including phishing campaigns and attempts to harvest personal and financial data. Threat actors linked to Russia reportedly used these domains to trick victims into divulging sensitive information.

• Impact: This seizure is part of a broader effort by U.S. authorities and Microsoft to reduce the threat of cybercrime from state-backed or state-tolerated actors. The crackdown aims to protect individuals and organisations from falling victim to these sophisticated scams.

• Why This Matters: This coordinated action helps dismantle cybercriminals' infrastructure, thereby reducing the risk for everyday users and businesses. However, it’s essential to remain vigilant, as cybercriminals often quickly adapt and set up new domains.

These operations demonstrate the evolving nature of the battle against cybercrime and the importance of international cooperation in keeping the digital space safe.

Featured Video: How to Land an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Job in 2024

Breaking into the cybersecurity field can seem daunting, but you can land that coveted entry-level job with the right strategy. In my latest YouTube video, I share the essential steps you need to take to position yourself for success in the cybersecurity industry in 2024. From building the proper skill set to gaining relevant certifications and experience, this video will guide you through the process.

🎥 Watch the full video here

Whether you’re just starting out or making a career shift, this video will provide actionable tips to help you land your first cybersecurity role.

We hope you found this edition of Career Compass by Avidity helpful and inspiring! Interviews, burnout, cybersecurity, and staying updated on news like the Qantas breach are all important aspects of professional growth. We want you to feel empowered to tackle these challenges confidently.

Feel free to reach out with any questions or topics you’d like us to cover in future editions. Don’t forget to check out my latest YouTube video, and share this newsletter with colleagues who might find it valuable.

Keep levelling up your career. See you in the next edition!