With cyber threats and data breaches constantly in the news, organizations focus much attention on shoring up their cybersecurity defenses. This means there is a strong demand for skilled IT security professionals across many industries. Here is what employers typically look for when hiring for these critical roles:
Technical Knowledge & Skills
Up-to-Date Expertise
IT security is a rapidly evolving field, so employers want candidates who maintain current knowledge of the latest threats, attack vectors, security tools, policies and best practices. Hands-on experience with techniques like ethical hacking, risk assessment, incident response and digital forensics is very valuable.
Fundamental Security Concepts
At a minimum, employers expect a solid understanding of core information security principles like CIA (confidentiality, integrity, and availability), access controls, authentication, cryptography and data protection methods. Expertise in areas like network security, cloud security, application security and security architecture are also desired.
Relevant Certifications
Industry certifications provide independent validation of an IT security professional’s skills and knowledge. According to the good folk at ProTrain, highly regarded credentials that employers routinely look for include CompTIA Security+, Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP), Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), and CompTIA security certification programs.
Risk & Compliance Knowledge
Beyond just technical security skills, employers need personnel who understand risk management frameworks, regulatory compliance requirements (HIPAA, PCI DSS, GDPR etc.), security controls, policies, and procedures for safeguarding sensitive data based on the organization’s industry.
Problem-Solving & Analytical Skills
Identifying & Mitigating Risks
A core responsibility for security professionals is continuously monitoring for potential vulnerabilities and threats, then implementing appropriate safeguards to reduce the organization’s overall risk exposure. Strong analytical, critical thinking and problem-solving abilities are critical.
Incident Response & Forensics
When security incidents occur, employers need staff who can swiftly investigate, contain the incident, and guide the response and recovery efforts. Skills in areas like malware analysis, log examination, evidence preservation and recreating attack scenarios are very important.
Automating & Streamlining Security
IT security teams are commonly tasked with identifying ways to automate and optimize security processes through scripting, tools integration and process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce human error.
Communication & Collaboration
Translating Technical Concepts
Security professionals must be able to explain complex technical security concepts and terminologies in simple, clear language that non-technical executives and end users can understand. Excellent verbal and written communication abilities are essential.
Cross-Team Coordination
Implementing effective security requires coordination across different teams and departments, including IT, legal/compliance, human resources, product development, etc. The ability to collaborate smoothly with diverse stakeholder groups is highly valued.
Training and Awareness
A key aspect of any organization’s security strategy involves ongoing security education and awareness initiatives to ensure all personnel understand security best practices, policies, and their role in keeping the organization secure.
Other Valued Qualities
Critical Thinking & Attention to Detail
Security involves carefully analyzing processes, systems, and data flows to identify even the slightest potential vulnerabilities that could be exploited. An inquisitive mindset and meticulous attention to detail are crucial.
Ethical Decision-Making
Security personnel must be able to reason through ethical dilemmas and make principled decisions that balance business needs with security requirements in a manner consistent with the organization’s values and risk tolerance.
Passion and Drive for Continuous Learning
In the ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, a willingness to constantly learn, research emerging threats, and develop new skills is absolutely essential for long-term success and relevance.
Conclusion
While technical competence is certainly vital for IT security roles, employers also highly prioritize candidates with strong problem-solving abilities, communication skills, and a commitment to ongoing professional development. Those who can combine in-depth security knowledge with skills in areas like risk assessment, incident response, process automation and stakeholder collaboration are extremely valuable.
