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The Career Compass - Edition 59

👋 Welcome

Welcome back to The Career Compass! This week, we’re diving into one of the biggest decisions in cybersecurity, should you build your career on the Red Team (offensive security) or the Blue Team (defensive security)?

I’ll also share a powerful roadmap to help you build real momentum in your career, a quick look at how AI is changing the cybersecurity landscape, and a few mindset tips for when progress feels slow.

Let’s get started.

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News & Trends

AI is Changing the Cybersecurity Game Fast

Artificial Intelligence is no longer just a buzzword. It is transforming both how attacks are launched and how defences are built. Here is what is happening right now:

• AI powered attacks are increasing, with cybercriminals using autonomous “agentic” AI systems to make attacks more sophisticated and adaptive.
• Defenders are trying to keep up. Only about 14 percent of CISOs feel prepared to safely integrate AI into their operations, creating a large gap and opportunity for professionals who understand both cybersecurity and AI.
• The talent shortage remains a challenge. The World Economic Forum reports that cyberattacks per organisation have doubled since 2021, yet the global shortage of skilled professionals continues to grow.

🔍 Spotlight Stat: According to IBM’s 2025 Security Report, the average data breach now costs over $6 million AUD, the highest ever recorded. Organisations are spending more on defence than ever before, creating strong demand for skilled cyber professionals.

Takeaway: Whether you work on the Red or Blue side, learning how AI impacts security and how to use it responsibly will help your career stand out in 2025.

The Cybersecurity Workforce is Evolving

Demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, but the skill sets employers are prioritising are changing quickly.

• Cloud and identity security roles have grown by over 25 percent in the last year as more organisations shift to hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
• Soft skills such as communication, teamwork and stakeholder management are becoming essential, especially for analysts and engineers working with business teams.
• Entry-level pathways are expanding. More companies are offering structured graduate or transition programs to attract professionals from IT support, networking and even unrelated industries.

Takeaway: The cybersecurity job market is not just growing; it is diversifying. Whether you are new to the field or looking to move up, now is the time to align your skills with where the industry is heading.

The Cybersecurity Roadmap No One Talks About

Many people say “get certified,” but a smarter approach is to follow this path:

Step 1: Map the Battlefield
Understand the different cybersecurity roles and figure out where you fit. You might prefer Red Team, Blue Team, SOC Analyst, GRC or Threat Intelligence.

Step 2: Build Your Foundation
Learn how computers, operating systems and networks actually work. These fundamentals are your armour.

Step 3: Get Hands On
Set up a home lab, experiment, break things and learn by doing.

Step 4: Immerse Yourself
Join online communities, attend meetups and network with others already in the field. The right connection can open the right door.

Step 5: Certify Smart
Once you have built a foundation, validate your skills with targeted certifications such as
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Google Cybersecurity Certificate
Choose one that aligns with your goals and interests.

How to Build Momentum When You Feel Stuck

Everyone hits a point where things slow down. You send out applications and hear nothing back, or you are unsure what the next step should be. When that happens, focus on regaining momentum rather than perfection.

Here are three things that make a difference:

1. Audit Your Direction
Take a step back and check if the roles you are applying for truly match your skills and strengths. Many people apply too broadly and lose focus. Refine your aim and go after positions that genuinely fit.

2. Refresh Your Story
Your resume and LinkedIn should tell a consistent story about who you are and what you bring. Focus less on listing tasks and more on results, achievements and impact. Make it easy for employers to picture you in the role.

3. Build Confidence Through Small Wins
Confidence grows through action. Reach out to someone in your network, practise an interview question, or update one section of your LinkedIn profile. Small wins build momentum and get you moving again.

If you are stuck, progress comes from clarity and action, not luck.

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Inside you will find:
• A clear roadmap to career success
• Tips to stand out to hiring managers
• Strategies for salary negotiation and interview preparation
• Templates and worksheets you can use immediately

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Challenge of the Week

This week, take 30 minutes to focus on action instead of theory:

1. Choose a side, Red or Blue, that interests you most.

2. Look up three job postings in that area and list the top five skills mentioned.

3. Pick one skill and find a free lab, YouTube tutorial or challenge to practise it this week.

4. Share what you learned in a cyber community such as LinkedIn, Discord or Reddit, and engage with someone else’s post.

Each small step builds confidence and direction.

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!