The Career Compass #48: The Cybersecurity Myth-Busting Issue

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Hey everyone,

Cybersecurity is one of the most exciting, fast-growing industries out there — but it’s also full of misinformation that holds people back. I see it all the time as a recruiter and career coach: talented people who could succeed in cyber never even try because they believe the wrong things.

In this edition, I’m busting some of the biggest myths that might be slowing down your career progress — and showing you the reality of what hiring managers actually look for.

Feature Article – 5 Cybersecurity Career Myths That Are Stopping You From Getting Hired

Myth 1: You need 10 years of experience to get started.

❌ Wrong. Most entry-level cyber jobs ask for 1–2 years of IT experience — sometimes less.

✅ Reality: Employers care more about transferable skills (IT support, networking, customer service, problem-solving) than a decade of prior cyber experience.

Myth 2: You must be a coding genius.

❌ Wrong. Not all cybersecurity roles require coding — in fact, many don’t.

✅ Reality: For roles like SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, or GRC Analyst, analytical thinking, communication, and tooling knowledge matter more than deep programming.

Myth 3: Certifications guarantee you a job.

❌ Wrong. A cert without skills is just a piece of paper.

✅ Reality: Certifications (like Security+, Google Cybersecurity Certificate, or CC) are powerful door-openers, but only if combined with projects, labs, or proof of hands-on learning.

Myth 4: Cybersecurity is only for “tech people.”

❌ Wrong. Some of the most successful cyber professionals I’ve placed came from backgrounds in law, business, or customer support.

✅ Reality: The field is broad. GRC, awareness training, compliance, and risk management often need strong communication and business skills.

Myth 5: The market is too saturated — there are no jobs.

❌ Wrong. While applications are competitive, demand is still growing fast.

✅ Reality: The key is differentiation — tailoring your resume, showing real skills, and proving you can learn quickly will put you ahead of most candidates.

📌 Takeaway: Don’t let myths stop you. The hiring managers I work with aren’t looking for “perfect cyber ninjas” — they’re looking for people who are eager to learn, can work with a team, and show curiosity.

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Career Action of the Week

Bust one myth for yourself. Ask: What story am I telling myself that’s holding me back?

• If you’ve been waiting until you “know more coding” → apply anyway.

• If you think “I don’t have enough experience” → showcase transferable skills.

• If you assume “I need another cert” → pause and add proof of hands-on practice.

Cybersecurity Insight – The Hiring Manager’s Perspective

As a recruiter, I can tell you: the candidates who get hired aren’t always the ones with the longest list of certs or the fanciest degrees.

They’re the ones who:

✔ Show curiosity and problem-solving

✔ Communicate clearly

✔ Demonstrate some hands-on learning (labs, projects, volunteer work)

It’s less about being the “best on paper” and more about showing you’ll grow with the job.

Video of the Week: CompTIA CySA+ in 2025: Is It Worth It for Your Cybersecurity Career?

Want to move beyond Security+ and land your first analyst role in cybersecurity? The CompTIA CySA+ might be your next step.

In this video, I break down everything you need to know about the CySA+ certification in 2025 — from what the exam covers, to the skills you’ll gain, and whether it’s worth the investment for your career.

As a recruiter with 14+ years of experience I’ll share the real insider perspective on how employers view CySA+ and which roles it actually opens doors to.

What You’ll Learn:

• What the CompTIA CySA+ is and how it compares to Security+

• Key skills you’ll gain (SIEMs, log analysis, incident response)

• Who should take CySA+ and who might skip it

• Career paths and salaries for CySA+ holders

• My honest take as a recruiter: is CySA+ worth it in 2025?

🎯 If you’re aiming for a SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, or Threat Hunter role, this video will give you the clarity you need before booking the exam.

Shareable Career Nugget

“Cybersecurity isn’t just for coders or experts — it’s for problem-solvers who keep learning.”

Coaching Spotlight

Feeling stuck in your career, or struggling to break into cybersecurity? I offer 1:1 coaching sessions to help you:

• Tailor your resume and LinkedIn for cyber roles

• Practice interviews with insider feedback

• Map a step-by-step path to land your first role

🎯 Book your free 15-minute exploratory call here: Click here

Career Trends – The Rising Demand for Cyber Talent

If you’ve been worried that “there are no cyber jobs” — here’s the reality:

📊 According to recent industry reports, demand for cybersecurity professionals is growing faster than almost every other IT field. By 2025, the skills gap is projected to hit 3.5 million unfilled roles worldwide.

What does this mean for you?

• If you’re breaking into the field, there’s opportunity — but you need to differentiate yourself.

• If you’re already in IT, this is the perfect time to pivot. Your existing skills (networking, troubleshooting, problem-solving) are valuable stepping stones.

• If you’re mid-career, investing in cyber upskilling could future-proof your career.

📌 Big takeaway: Don’t let myths convince you otherwise. The jobs are there — it’s about preparation and positioning.

Thanks for reading, and as always, keep levelling up your career.

Best wishes
Luke Gough
Recruiter / Career Coach / Founder of The Career Compass

P.S. Remember to share The Career Compass with your network, and let’s work together to empower more careers!