What do you do if you want to leverage temporary and contract work to advance your Cybersecurity career?

In advancing your cybersecurity career through temporary and contract work, start by setting clear goals aligned with your career trajectory. Then, actively seek gigs in cybersecurity, continuously upskill, network effectively within the industry, consistently perform at a high level, and reflect on your experiences to adjust and improve. It's about being proactive, adaptable, and committed to growth.

Taking a step back to evaluate your career objectives is a crucial move before venturing into contract work within cybersecurity. Reflect on what you aim to accomplish through these temporary engagements. It could be about acquiring new competencies, gaining insights into a specific cybersecurity area, or getting hands-on experience with certain technologies. Having a clear understanding of your goals will serve as a compass in choosing contracts that not only match your immediate interests but also bolster your long-term career growth. View each contract as a strategic step towards your professional development, making informed choices to ensure that every project you undertake enriches your career path.

Platforms like Fiverr and Upwork can be a great way small gigs to upskill yourself in cybersecurity and get some experience. I also recommend finding small to medium businesses on LinkedIn and pitching your cybersecurity services to them. This will give you a great way to practice your sales skills and improve your communication

iscovering contract and temporary roles in cybersecurity requires a strategic approach to job hunting. Begin by exploring job boards, leveraging LinkedIn, and participating in discussions on industry-specific forums, where such opportunities frequently surface. Networking plays a pivotal role as well; immerse yourself in the cybersecurity community by attending conferences, becoming active in professional groups, and establishing connections with recruiters known for their focus on contract positions.

It can be overwhelming not knowing where to continue your education. Before making a significant financial investment in education and certification, ask yourself what the end goal is and what you are trying to accomplish. If you’re seeking a degree just to have one but don’t prioritize gaining experience, I recommend looking into WGU. This provides you with the opportunity to attend college classes while also earning certifications. If you’re looking to build skills without spending money, utilize online platforms like TryHackMe or HackTheBox. Additionally, attending conferences or joining a cyber organization is a good way to enhance your skills.

Staying ahead in the dynamic realm of cybersecurity demands a commitment to ongoing education. For contractors, this means a consistent effort to enhance skills and knowledge is crucial for maintaining relevance and competitiveness. Embrace the wealth of resources available, such as online courses, industry certifications, and specialized workshops, to stay updated with emerging threats, cutting-edge technologies, and evolving best practices.

Some of the most successful interviews and opportunities arise because I knew someone or know someone who knows someone. Utilize opportunities like joining a local organization, attending conferences, or connecting on Discord channels. If you’re a college student, use the time to get to know your peers in your major. They are most likely to get a job, and now you have connections into that company. Networking can allow you to build YOUR brand and will make you marketable.

Temporary work is still experience. Your work is your brand and a reflection of who you are. Even though time is limited, take the opportunity to connect and learn from the people around you. Having these experiences and positive connections can be a long-term investment later in your career.

Another way to get into this field is through your own networking too; organisations will reach out to you if you are a high profile professional, or someone who is actively progressing in your career through certifications etc.