Hey everyone, I'm reaching out for some career advice. I've been in IT for about 5 years now, starting at a small nonprofit where I worked my way up to IT Manager. I don't have a degree in IT, but I did take some cybersecurity classes a while back, although I didn't graduate. Currently, I'm working remotely as a security engineer, earning about $75k a year where I live comfortably due to the low cost of living. However, I'm eager to progress in my career and increase my salary significantly. I feel like I've learned a lot on the job, but I know there are gaps in my foundational knowledge. I'm in my mid-30s and sometimes struggle with imposter syndrome, which makes me unsure about my next steps. I'm looking for insights on what direction I should take and what skills or certifications might help me move forward in IT. Also, my current job doesn't offer any educational benefits or leadership development programs.
4 Answers
You're definitely not behind! You have unique experience which is valuable. Focus on specific areas like cloud, security, or infrastructure. Fill in any knowledge gaps with relevant certifications or personal projects. Use your real-world experience to help you climb the ladder more quickly.
Are you currently involved in governance or SecOps activities?
I'm doing SecOps!
The most important thing is to keep learning through self-study or getting certifications. A lot of IT pros experience imposter syndrome, so you're not alone! Since you don't have a degree related to IT, certifications can help you pass through HR screens more effectively. Choose a certification path and stick to it. If your current company isn't providing you with raises, considering new job opportunities might be your best bet. With the right certs, you could realistically make six figures within a few years.
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