How I Transitioned Into Cybersecurity From a Non-Technical Background.

In 2022, I transitioned from a non-technical role into cybersecurity. I had my first degree in German Language😮, I know you're shocked and curious about how I was able to successfully transition, Well it just happened😊. It was a bold move, but it was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

I had always been interested in hacking/cybersecurity (P.S. I blame all the sci-fi movies I had seen for this), but I didn't think I had the skills or experience to make a career out of it. I decided to do research on Cybersecurity, and the results I got left me with some fears, first I had no technical background, and I didn't know where to start. But then I found out that there are many paths to pursue in cybersecurity and this is based on your interest and skill set, which need not necessarily be technical.

Cybersecurity is so much more than just hacking and breaking stuff. With my experience so far, I can confidently say that cybersecurity is more of a "people" job. It comprises numerous paths and best practices to safeguard the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of networks, systems, and information. There are many soft skills from your previous role that are needed in cybersecurity, such as your ability to communicate (both verbally and in writing), present, understand, and solve problems. Your management skills, leadership skills, and creativity are all reasonable soft skills needed to have a successful cybersecurity career. You need to know that in cybersecurity, there is something for everyone.

If you are considering cybersecurity as a new career path, Here are a few tips for transitioning into cybersecurity without a technical background:

1. Find your passion: The first step is to find something within the cybersecurity industry that you're genuinely interested in. This could be anything from the technical aspect to risk management to even cybersecurity sales. Once you've found your passion, you can start to focus on developing the skills and knowledge you need to pursue a career in that area.

2. Learn the basics: Once you've found your passion, it's important to learn the basics of cybersecurity. This includes understanding key concepts like networks, protocols, and security threats. There are many free resources available online that can help you learn the basics of cybersecurity such as TryHackMe, Introduction to Cybersecurity by Cisco, Simplilearn, and Youtube.

3. Get hands-on experience. The best way to learn cybersecurity is by doing it. There are many ways to get hands-on experience, such as participating in online challenges or internships. Consider participating in online cybersecurity challenges such as Hackthebox, HackerRank, CTFtime, and Cyberlympics. These will help in simulating real-world scenarios and improve your skills.

4. Join a community: There are many online communities and forums dedicated to cybersecurity where you can connect with other professionals, ask questions, share resources, find opportunities, and even learn from others' experiences.

5. Seek out mentors: Having a mentor can make all the difference in your career. Look for someone with experience in the cybersecurity field who can offer guidance and support as you navigate your career path.

6. Stay up to date: Cybersecurity is an ever-evolving field, so it's important to stay up to date with the latest trends and developments. This can include reading industry publications, attending conferences and events, and participating in professional development opportunities.

7. Don't give up: Transitioning into a new career can be challenging, but don't give up. Keep learning, keep networking, and keep applying for jobs. With hard work and dedication, you can achieve your goals.

I hope these tips are helpful for you and other non-technical people looking to get started in cybersecurity! If you have any specific questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to ask.