Overview
This article offers a grounded perspective on the cybersecurity job market, addressing saturation, misinformation, and the importance of foundational IT experience.
The Influencer Narrative vs Reality
An overly optimistic narrative has taken hold in cybersecurity, often amplified by influencers and bootcamps. While visibility and encouragement are not inherently bad, they frequently fail to reflect the real hiring conditions faced by most candidates.
The Reality of Market Saturation
Cybersecurity has become heavily saturated, especially at the entry level. Many aspiring professionals find themselves stuck in long job searches with few callbacks, despite doing everything they were told would work. This disconnect creates frustration, disappointment, and financial strain.
The Role of Foundational IT Experience
Successful cybersecurity careers are often built on foundational IT roles such as helpdesk, systems administration, or network engineering. Job descriptions routinely list these roles as prerequisites, yet this reality is often overlooked in promotional messaging.
What Mentorship Reveals
Through mentoring, it becomes clear that many individuals who pivot into foundational IT roles gain valuable experience and confidence. Some ultimately prefer these roles and find greater satisfaction and compensation than expected. For others, these roles become a natural bridge into cybersecurity.
Not Every Path Leads to Security and That Is Okay
Only a small percentage of candidates may ultimately transition into cybersecurity roles. This is not failure, but part of discovering where skills, interests, and strengths truly align.
AI and the Next Wave
As interest shifts toward AI focused roles, similar patterns of hype and saturation are likely to repeat. The lesson remains consistent, build real skills early and stay adaptable.
Honest Guidance Over Fantasy
The goal of mentorship is not profit or hype, but honest guidance rooted in reality. Sustainable careers are built through persistence, resilience, and a willingness to adapt, not shortcuts.
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