What do you do if your network security skills are undervalued after a layoff?

1 Assess your skills

The first step is to take a realistic look at your current network security skills and identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can use online tools, such as the NIST Cybersecurity Framework or the CompTIA Security+ certification, to evaluate your knowledge and abilities in different domains of network security, such as risk management, threat analysis, cryptography, or incident response. You can also ask for feedback from your former colleagues, mentors, or peers in the industry. This will help you understand where you stand in relation to the market demand and the skills gap.

2 Update your resume

The next step is to update your resume and highlight your network security skills and achievements. You want to make sure that your resume reflects your value proposition and showcases your relevant experience and projects. You can use keywords, metrics, and examples to demonstrate your impact and results. You can also use a resume builder or a template to create a professional and eye-catching resume that stands out from the crowd. You can also tailor your resume to each job application and emphasize the skills that match the job description.

3 Expand your network

Another important step is to expand your network and connect with people who can help you find new opportunities or refer you to potential employers. You can use social media platforms, such as LinkedIn or Twitter, to follow and engage with network security experts, influencers, or organizations. You can also join online communities, forums, or groups that focus on network security topics and issues. You can also attend webinars, podcasts, or events that showcase the latest trends and best practices in network security. You can also reach out to your existing contacts and let them know that you are looking for a new role.

4 Learn new skills

One of the best ways to increase your value and marketability as a network security professional is to learn new skills or update your existing ones. You can use online courses, books, or blogs to learn about new technologies, tools, or frameworks that are relevant to network security. You can also pursue certifications, such as the CISSP, CEH, or CISM, that validate your skills and credibility in the field. You can also work on personal or open source projects that showcase your skills and creativity. You can also participate in challenges, competitions, or hackathons that test your skills and expose you to real-world scenarios.

5 Showcase your portfolio

Finally, you need to showcase your portfolio and demonstrate your network security skills and achievements to potential employers. You can use a website, a blog, or a platform, such as GitHub or Medium, to display your projects, code, or articles. You can also use a video, a podcast, or a presentation to explain your work and share your insights. You can also use testimonials, endorsements, or awards to highlight your reputation and recognition in the industry. You can also use a cover letter, an elevator pitch, or a personal statement to convey your passion and motivation for network security.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?