To HR managers and hiring systems, certifications provide instant filters and credibility. Cybersecurity roles grew so fast that employers needed simple screening tools. As one analysis notes, with millions of unfilled jobs looming, certifications gave recruiters “an easy way to screen applicants for infosec jobs”. In practice, many Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) are programmed to spot cert keywords (e.g. CISSP, OSCP, Security+) and boost those resumes. A certificate reassures employers that a candidate has at least covered an industry-standard curriculum.

What Does Recruiters Look For In Cybersecurity Professionals

Surveys of cybersecurity hiring managers reveal a clear trend: experience and skills often outrank paper credentials. For example, a recent study cross the US, India and other countries found that 90% would consider hiring a candidate with only prior IT experience and 89% with only a relevant entry-level certification even without a degree over someone holding just a formal education. In other words, recruiters prefer demonstrable know-how (whether earned through work or by passing cert exams) much more than a generic diploma.

Moreover, soft and transferable skills have vaulted to the top of hiring criteria. As per the reports that three of the top five skills employers want are non-technical: teamwork, problem-solving and analytical thinking. These leadership and critical-thinking abilities actually ranked above specific technical knowledge like data security or cloud security in one survey. A candidate who can think critically and collaborate well may impress an interviewer more than someone who has only memorized facts.One industry analysis noted that 62% of employers say candidates lack hands-on cybersecurity experience, even if they have theory. In short, start building practical skills now. Getting certificates can help you get noticed, but demonstrating real-world ability is what often gets you hired.

5. Cryptography and Data Protection: Understanding encryption, key management and secure protocols is sought after. Employers also prize familiarity with data privacy standards and compliance (e.g. GDPR, HIPAA).

6. DevSecOps and Automation: Integrating security into the DevOps process (DevSecOps) is a growing focus. Skills with CI/CD pipelines and automation/orchestration platforms (e.g. Kubernetes security, SOAR tools) are increasingly requested. Approximately 10% of cybersecurity job postings now explicitly require AI/automation skills, reflecting the rise of AI-driven tools and machine learning for security.

NG Networks’ own analysis similarly lists firewalls, troubleshooting networks, router management and broad cybersecurity fundamentals as must-haves. In short, technical breadth plus depth is required.

2.  Use Online Learning Platforms: Once Engage with guided practice on platforms like TryHackMe or Hack The Box. These sites offer progressive “learn paths” and CTF (Capture The Flag) challenges that simulate real vulnerabilities. Completing rooms teaches concepts and gives you credentials to showcase. For example, report write-ups on GitHub or platform badges earned. Cybersecurity veterans say solving even a few beginner CTFs is more impressive than a dozen certificates, because it proves problem-solving under the hood.

3. Join Cybersecurity Programs: Take advantage of structured courses that emphasize hands-on work. For example, NG Networks’ Cybersecurity Specialist Program (CSS) is designed as the final step in its learning roadmap. After you’ve mastered networking basics, CSS dives deep into practical topics like incident response, threat hunting, encryption and much more. Graduates gain real-world skills to “tie together everything needed to protect an organization’s data”.

• Fundamental Networking & Security: You must be comfortable with TCP/IP networks, Ethernet, routers and switches. Knowing how to configure a firewall, VPN or VLAN is basic table stakes. Troubleshooting network connectivity issues is also key.
  
• Systems & OS Proficiency: Be fluent with at least one server OS (Linux/Windows) and their command lines. Understand system hardening, logs, user permissions and services.
• Cloud Platforms: AWS, Azure or GCP skills would be really helpful. Gain experience configuring cloud VMs, storage and IAM policies, and securing cloud resources (for instance, AWS Certified Security – Specialty builds these competencies).
  
• Security Tools & Processes: Hands-on use of security technologies is expected. This includes SIEM log monitoring, IDS/IPS, endpoint protection, VPNs, encryption tools and vulnerability scanners. Know at least one packet analyzer (Wireshark), one pen-test framework (Metasploit, Burp), and one forensics toolchain.
• Threat Detection & Response: Skill in analyzing alerts and investigating incidents is a differentiator. You should understand the basic incident response process (contain, eradicate, recover) and have practiced live-fire exercises.
• Cyber Defense Concepts: Topics like identity/access management (IAM), public-key cryptography, and security architecture (e.g. zero-trust networks) should be in your toolkit. Stay updated with the evolving threats like ransomware tactics, supply chain attacks, and AI-driven attacks.
• Soft Skills & Problem Solving: Communication, teamwork and analytical thinking are indispensable. You’ll often explain technical risks to non-experts or work in cross-functional teams.
• Adaptability & Continuous Learning: Security changes daily. Show initiative by quickly learning new platforms (e.g. DevSecOps tools) and adapting to business needs. On-the-job learning (through mentorship or labs) should be a constant.