The Career Compass – Edition #47

Hey Career Navigators,

Breaking into a new field — especially cybersecurity — can feel like solving a puzzle with missing pieces. The truth is, most candidates don’t actually know what hiring managers are looking for.

That’s why this edition focuses on how to stand out in a competitive job market by understanding the recruiter and hiring manager’s perspective.

Recently, I reviewed an entry-level cybersecurity resume that had tons of technical courses but not a single mention of teamwork, communication, or problem-solving.

The result?

They made it to interview stage — but lost out to someone with less technical knowledge but stronger soft skills.

Lesson: Hiring managers want more than just certificates. They want people who can think, adapt, and work well with others.

Career Action of the Week – Translate Your Skills

This week, try this quick exercise:

1. Write down your top 3 technical skills (e.g., networking, Python, SIEM tools).

2. For each, add the problem it solves (e.g., “SIEM monitoring → helps detect security breaches faster”).

3. Practice saying these out loud as if you were explaining to a non-technical manager.

📌 Pro Tip: If you can clearly explain what you do, you’ll stand out instantly in interviews.

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Video of the Week: Want an Entry-Level Cybersecurity Job? Here’s What Hiring Managers Look For

Want to land your first job in cybersecurity? In this video, I break down exactly what hiring managers are looking for in entry-level cybersecurity candidates — from the technical skills that actually matter, to the soft skills that make you stand out, and the common mistakes that stop your resume from getting noticed.

As a recruiter with 14+ years of experience, I’ll share the insider perspective that most candidates never hear. Whether you’re aiming for a SOC Analyst, Cybersecurity Analyst, or another junior cyber role, this video will give you a clear checklist to help you get hired faster.

What You’ll Learn:

✅ Core skills hiring managers expect at entry-level

✅ The underrated soft skills that make or break your application

✅ How to tailor your resume for cybersecurity roles

✅ Common mistakes that cost you interviews

✅ My “Green Flags” checklist every candidate should know

Career Coach’s Corner – The #1 Mistake in Applications

The most common mistake I see? Generic resumes.

Hiring managers can spot a copy-paste CV instantly. Instead:

• Mirror the language in the job description.

• Put the most relevant skills and wins in the top third of your resume.

• Cut out filler (nobody needs to see “proficient in Microsoft Word” in 2025).

Remember: Your resume’s job is not to get you the job — it’s to get you the interview.

Cybersecurity Career Insight – Green Flags for Entry-Level Hires

Based on what I see in the industry, here are 5 green flags hiring managers love in junior cyber candidates:

1. Curiosity – You don’t just spot problems, you dig into why they happened.

2. Hands-on projects – Even small labs or GitHub repos show initiative.

3. Certifications that match the role – Security+, Google Cybersecurity Certificate, or IT fundamentals.

4. Clear communication – Writing or presenting your findings simply.

5. Team mindset – Willingness to learn and collaborate

These matter as much — often more — than raw technical knowledge.

 Fast-Track Tip – Networking Without Being Awkward

Don’t just “connect” on LinkedIn. Start a conversation:

1. Engage with their post by adding a thoughtful comment.

2. Send a message referencing that post (“I really liked your point on X — how do you see that affecting Y?”).

3. Only then ask for advice, insight, or a quick call.

   Relationships > Random requests.

Coaching Spotlight

Struggling to land interviews or move past the first round? I offer 1:1 coaching sessions to help you:

• Tailor your resume and LinkedIn for cybersecurity jobs

• Prepare for technical and behavioral interviews

• Build confidence and avoid common mistakes

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

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!