How can you effectively network when transitioning to an Information Security role?

Identifying your goals and interests is like setting a destination on your career map. It helps you know where you want to go and makes your networking efforts more effective. Imagine you're planning a road trip. You wouldn't just hit the road without knowing your destination, right? Similarly, in the professional world, having clear goals in Information Security helps you focus your networking efforts. Do you want to be an expert in ethical hacking, or maybe you're more interested in risk management? When you're clear about your goals, it's easier to connect with the right people. Plus, knowing your goals makes you more memorable in networking situations.

Discovering your goals and interests involves uncovering your inner passion. Personally, I seek to contribute my best skills to make a meaningful impact on others and inspire them to give back to the community. As humans, we all strive for something. Why not guide someone to the right opportunities, connect with the right people, and share your knowledge? In the professional realm, attending networking events or community groups focused on collaboration provides a broader perspective. This exposure introduces you to individuals with diverse careers and goals, helping you pinpoint your true aspirations. Taking proactive steps in life is essential; you must actively seek your passions to discover your authentic self.

When I transitioned into my first information security role, I joined newsletters, mailing lists, subscribed to InfoSec podcasts, followed market-leading InfoSec companies on LinkedIn, and googled the top 10 InfoSec people to follow on social media. I figured if I wanted to be knowledgeable about what was currently going in Information Security, I needed to get that information from trusted sources. When I would subscribe to a podcast and hear a guest say something relevant, I would then reach out to network with them. If I read an article from a source that spoke to me, I would also ask the person who wrote it a question on social media and try to connect with them. Doing this repeatedly unlocked even more avenues for me to network.

Think of it this way: if you're driving somewhere, you check the traffic reports or use GPS to avoid roadblocks and find the best route. Similarly, in the professional world, staying informed about the latest trends, news, and developments in Information Security is crucial. When you research and follow relevant sources, like industry blogs, news websites, and social media accounts, you're essentially arming yourself with the latest information. This not only makes you more knowledgeable but also helps you speak the same language as others in the field. It's like being part of the conversation rather than just an onlooker.

Attending technical events as a newcomer offers opportunities to network with professionals, gain insights into industry trends, learn from experts through workshops or talks, and discover potential mentors who can guide your career. Additionally, it provides a platform to showcase your skills, stay updated on cutting-edge technologies, and build a supportive community within your field of interest.

Your worth isn't determined by the number of followers you have. Approach every engagement and connection as if you were just starting your journey. Stay authentic, personalize your messages, and follow up with connections after meeting them. There may come a time when you want to transition your life goals, and someone in your network could be the key to introducing you to opportunities that align with those aspirations.

Not everyone has the privilege of easily accessing resources to achieve their goals, and not everyone is in an ideal life situation. If you're an experienced professional, consider sharing your knowledge. There are aspiring professionals and young adults who may aspire to be in the same career as you. If you were to mentor or teach someone, how effective would you be? This principle extends to the professional world as well. Do you conduct regular one-on-one meetings with your team? Are your documentation skills strong? Do your team members feel comfortable approaching you and others? Embracing discomfort and providing value through insights or experiences can help identify your own shortcomings and make you a better individual.

Learning non-stop is your ticket to making solid connections in your new field. In stuff like Information Security, you've got to keep updating what you know... It's like the unwritten rule. When you're always learning, it's not just about getting better at your job. It's like you're sending a signal to others: "I'm serious about this, and I'm keeping up with the latest." People notice that kind of dedication. And here's the thing: when you're into continuous learning, you naturally connect with others who are on the same wavelength.