Insider Insights: Navigating the Interview Process for Cybersecurity Positions

Introduction

As a hiring manager with two decades of experience in cybersecurity across various sectors—including financial services, healthcare, and consulting—I’ve seen firsthand what separates exceptional candidates from the rest. If you’re aiming for a long-term career in cybersecurity, consider the insights below. These tips are designed not just to help you secure an interview, but to distinguish yourself in a competitive field.

1. Showcase Your Technical Expertise

A fundamental expectation for any candidate is a solid foundation in technical skills. This can be demonstrated through certifications or relevant work experience. Certifications indicate you have a grasp of specific concepts, while practical experience reveals how you’ve successfully employed this knowledge in real-world situations.

Ultimately, I’m looking for a comprehensive view of your skills: the technologies you’ve worked with, the challenges you’ve overcome, and your ability to articulate these experiences clearly during discussions. Moreover, a strong understanding of the processes and protocols that support information security efforts will set you apart.

2. Hone Your Communication Skills

In the digital age, while AI can assist in crafting basic communications, the ability to articulate thoughts, both verbally and in writing, remains essential. There’s a strong correlation between your spoken and written communication; if you’re not practiced in both, it may affect how you’re perceived in professional settings.

Perfectly composed emails generated by AI mean little if you struggle to convey your ideas in meetings or discussions. Regular practice in articulating your thoughts is crucial for proving your proficiency.

3. Foster Collaboration with Business Units

During interviews, I often observe candidates who can discuss technical topics in depth but fail to explore how they interact with other departments. In cybersecurity, our role isn’t merely to enforce rules but to collaborate with business stakeholders to evaluate and address risks effectively. This means understanding how to engage with various business functions, prioritize needs, and identify options for risk management.

If you cannot discuss this collaborative aspect convincingly, it significantly diminishes your candidacy.

4. Present Yourself Professionally

Your overall demeanor and presentation play a pivotal role in how you are perceived. Consider how you would prepare for a meeting with C-suite executives—what attire would you choose? How would you articulate your skills? Non-verbal cues are just as important as verbal communication.

The days of tech professionals hiding away in dark basements with snacks are long gone. Now, whether you’re an ethical hacker, systems administrator, or a sales subject