How to get job as entry level candidate in cybersecurity

Recruiters are noticing that while there are vacancies in information security, very few are entry level. Almost every job asks for prior experience.

Here's why.

1. Information security is mostly driven by laws and regulations.
2. Information security is still considered as an offshoot of IT. So much so, that having an IT experience is a definite '+'.
3. Infosec is a cost centre. Outsourcing is always a juicier option, than maintaining staff, in-house.
4. Security is like brushing your teeth or taking a daily bath - everyone knows the benefit, still very few people do it (unless forced, either by society or by regulation), unless they get compromised. It's a different ball-game then.
5. When an employer looks to bolster their security status, they hire
   1. The leader (CISO), if they are in a regulated industry or a decent size company. Hiring happens, top-down (senior-most, then senior, then junior, followed by junior-most).
   2. Someone slightly experienced, but cheaper than an executive.
6. Due to point 1 above, budgets are limited. Skill stacking is a given, resulting in cocktail JDs. Budgets get depleted by the time it comes to juniors.

One must read the below posts, related to job and work in general. Read them, chew them (in mind, of course).

The End of Work

My big, depressing, and optimistic theory for why it’s so hard to find and keep a job that makes you happy

Daniel Miessler

Job Security in Cyber Security is Changing

At what point is your “secure” job at risk?

Jai MintonJai Minton

Doesn't mean all is lost, though.

Here are some ways for an entry level guy to enter into this field. Remember - very few people can do all the things that are listed below. So, even if you could do 'some' things out of below list, congratulate yourself every-day. And push on.