How can Cybersecurity professionals ensure they are being paid fairly?

Pay is not everything. I have helped many people move away from high paying jobs because they were either overworked or unhappy in them. Yes, you need to be paid fairly but use that as only one criteria for evaluating a job.

In my perspective, ensuring fair compensation in cybersecurity involves a proactive understanding of personal value. I believe research into industry standards using platforms like Glassdoor and networking with peers is crucial. Acquiring knowledge about average salaries, benefits, and expectations in your specific role, considering factors like experience and location, empowers you to negotiate confidently. Regularly updating your skills, staying informed about market trends, and showcasing your contributions can further strengthen your position, ensuring that you receive fair recognition and compensation for your expertise in the dynamic field of cybersecurity.

Seek mentors who can provide guidance not just on technical aspects but also on career growth and compensation strategies. Humanize your mentorship journey by acknowledging the personal connections that influence your professional trajectory.

There are a variety of factors into pay to consider first - How much demand is there in your local (state/city/metro) market... that is what even international tech companies look at - What is the average in your local market Now with that in mind, consider how you can sell yourself in perspective to the common tasks someone at your level does across the industry and how many ways you are deserving to be in the top 10 percent of that level's pay bracket for your region, for example. Selling yourself based on feelings is not going to get you far, but hard facts and examples likely will! Lastly - it is a business deal negotiation, expect them to come low and you have to use the above and common negotiation tactics, just like other contracts.

Well payment is key when you are being employed. It's better to know when you are signing at your first contract, you can also consult with the board on your payments based on the companies size.

When being hired or even when you've been hired, regularly check job boards for their pay offerings. That way, you can know if you're being paid fairly, as per your job role and company size.

There is a lot of inaccurate salary information out there. It could be outdated or irrelevant due to the location/ size of the business/ type of industry. These things all play a part. If you want live salary data, speak with specialist recruiters within your location. For example, if you work in cyber security and are based in Australia, talking with someone like myself who engages with hundreds of people monthly would make sense. I speak to companies about budgets and people about their salary requirements. Ask a specialist recruiter; it's free.

It's not about you and your wants. It's about you and the problems you can solve or outcomes you can deliver. If you can demonstrate your value through the impact you can make Vs wanting a higher salary because your friend at Amazon is on a higher salary, you're much more likely to get what you're looking for. If you have examples of where you have saved money/ time or generated revenue, you directly impact the business. That's where you value is.

Remember, it's not just about the financial compensation. Working within the right environment which is enjoyable, supportive and you are working amongst people you can learn from is also very important, but never under sell yourself??