The biggest misconception keeping talented professionals out of cybersecurity
Every week, I speak with professionals who want to transition into cybersecurity, from project managers to compliance professionals.
Although their backgrounds are different, the conversations usually begin in exactly the same way.
“I don’t think I have enough experience.”
It’s one of the biggest misconceptions in our industry.
For many people, the word experience has become synonymous with eligibility. They believe employers expect years of technical security work before they’ll even consider an application.
After spending more than 15 years leading cybersecurity governance, risk and compliance programmes across multiple industries, I’ve learnt something that often surprises people.
The professionals who successfully transition into cybersecurity aren’t always the ones with the longest list of certifications.
They’re the ones who understand how to position the experience they already have.
Employers don’t simply hire cybersecurity knowledge.
They hire people who solve business problems.
Think about what organisations actually need every day.
The difference between transferable skills and visible value
One of the biggest mistakes career changers make is assuming hiring managers will automatically connect the dots.
Unfortunately, they rarely do.
Imagine someone writes:
“Managed multiple projects across different departments.”
That’s good experience.
But compare it with:
“Led cross-functional risk initiatives involving senior stakeholders, balancing operational priorities while ensuring regulatory compliance.”
Exactly the same person.
Exactly the same experience.
Completely different perception.
Confidence doesn’t come from collecting certificates
I’ve lost count of the number of conversations where someone has told me,
“I’m just waiting until I finish one more certification.”
Security+ becomes CySA+.
CySA+ becomes CISSP.
Then ISO 27001.
Then cloud certifications.
Then governance certifications.
Learning is valuable.
Continuous development is part of every successful cybersecurity career.
But there comes a point where another qualification no longer solves the real problem.
If you don’t know how to demonstrate your value…
