5 underrated skills in Cyber Security
Businesses are starting to realize the importance of IT security and the need to keep both their and their customer's information safe. The popularity of Cyber Security as a career has increased, partially driven by a ‘digital first’ way of working, fast-tracked by the COVID-19 global pandemic. Most companies now have an online presence, meaning more businesses are collecting, storing, and sharing customer and business information.
Data is a valuable commodity (with some experts referring to this resource as being ‘the new oil’). As such, it is easy to understand why companies are going to great lengths to take on professional Cyber Security experts, to implement and manage systems to keep their websites and data safe from fraudsters and hackers.
What is cyber security?
It's the practice of protecting systems, networks, and programs from digital attacks. These attacks are usually aimed at accessing, changing, or destroying sensitive information; extorting money from users; or interrupting normal business processes. As a cyber security professional, it's your job to defend against these threats by monitoring for unusual or suspicious activity, implementing security measures, and developing plans to handle any potential attacks.
But what skills do companies look for in these Cyber Security professionals? While technical abilities are obviously essential, there are a few underrated soft skills that can set candidates apart from the rest. Here are five to consider:
1- Communication:
As a cyber security professional, you'll need to be able to clearly explain technical information to non-technical colleagues and clients. This includes being able to break down complex concepts and present them in an understandable way.
2- Attention to detail:
Cyber attacks can often occur through small, seemingly insignificant details that are overlooked. As a cyber security professional, it's important to have a keen eye and attention to detail in order to spot any potential vulnerabilities or risks.
3- Problem-solving:
Being able to quickly and effectively solve problems is a crucial skill in the world of cyber security. As new threats and attacks arise, you'll need to constantly come up with innovative solutions to combat them.
4- Adaptability:
The world of cyber security is constantly evolving, and as a professional in the field, you'll need to stay up to date on current trends and adapt to new technologies and techniques.
5- Collaboration:
Cyber attacks often involve multiple parties and being able to work together with other professionals, such as law enforcement or IT teams, is important in order to effectively handle and prevent attacks.
Additionally, Cyber Security professionals are supposed to have deep knowledge of the following underrated Cyber Security skills:
1- Digital forensics:
It's the process of uncovering and analyzing evidence found on computers, networks, and digital storage devices.
2- Network security:
The practice of protecting the integrity and accessibility of network resources. This means that you are responsible for preventing unauthorized access, misuse, modification, or denial of a computer network and network-accessible resources.
3- Cryptography:
The practice of using codes to protect sensitive information and communication. It includes developing and analyzing protocols to enhance the security of communication systems.
4- Penetration testing:
Also known as "ethical hacking", it is simulating attacks on a computer system, network, or web application in order to discover vulnerabilities and weaknesses.
5- Risk management:
It's the process of identifying potential risks and implementing measures to mitigate them. This is crucial in the world of cyber security, as it helps prevent and minimize any potential damage from attacks.
While technical abilities are important, possessing these soft skills can make you stand out as a cybersecurity professional and give you an edge in the constantly evolving and competitive field. So, don't underestimate the importance of these underrated skills in your job search and career growth.
At Formatech, we offer a range of courses in cyber security. These courses equip you with the technical skills and knowledge to become a successful cybersecurity professional. Additionally, our programs also include soft skills training to help develop the important non-technical abilities needed in the industry. Visit our website to learn more about our Cyber Security courses and how we can help take your career to the next level.