One of the reasons I founded Lateral Connect was because I wanted professionals to experience cybersecurity rather than simply study it. Many people believe they need a cybersecurity job before they can gain cybersecurity experience.
That’s rarely true.
You can develop practical capability through real-world projects, mentoring etc. These experiences don’t replace employment. They prepare you for it. More importantly, they give you something meaningful to discuss during interviews.
Confidence is built through action
One lesson I’ve learnt throughout my career is this: Action creates confidence. Not the other way around. Many professionals believe confidence appears before they act but in reality, confidence grows because they act.
You apply before you feel completely ready.
You attend networking events.
You practise interviews.
You seek feedback.
You improve.
Every step makes the next one easier.
Waiting until you feel perfectly prepared often means waiting forever.
The professionals who accelerate fastest
When I look at professionals who successfully transition into cybersecurity, I rarely see people chasing every available qualification. Instead, I see individuals who balance learning with application.
They continue developing their knowledge.
You can access the full article by subscribing below. 👇
A different question to ask yourself
Instead of asking, “Which certification should I complete next?”
Try asking: “What evidence can I create that demonstrates my capability?”
That shift changes everything.
My advice if you’re transitioning today
If you’re planning a move into cybersecurity, don’t stop learning.
But don’t stop applying either.
Learn. Practise. Build. Reflect. Improve. Repeat.
The goal isn’t to become the most qualified person on paper. The goal is to become someone employers can immediately imagine working alongside. That’s a completely different objective.
And it’s one that transforms careers.
About Victoria Coker
I’m Victoria Coker, Founder of Lateral Connect and a cybersecurity leader with more than 15 years of experience across Governance, Risk and Compliance (GRC), security strategy and leadership.
Throughout my career, I’ve helped organisations strengthen their security posture and supported professionals from a wide range of backgrounds in building practical experience, developing confidence and successfully transitioning into cybersecurity.
At Lateral Connect, we believe careers are built through mentoring, real-world projects, practical application and leadership development – not simply by collecting qualifications.
If you’re wondering whether you’re ready for cybersecurity, or you’re unsure what your next step should be, I’d love to connect.
You can also complete the application form in my Featured section to discover whether Lateral Connect is the right pathway for your career transition.
Stop waiting for the perfect moment.
Your cybersecurity career may begin with the experience and potential you already have.
