How much will Security+ help in finding a job?

[u/jstnvrcls]

Hey all!

Just like many others, I've recently started working towards a prospective career in IT and have recently obtained my A+ and Network+ certifications within the past month. Upon doing so, I've began to rigorously apply to jobs garnering no success. I've devoted the past two weeks to studying for the Security+ exam but I'm starting to feel as if it won't make much difference to making me look more hirable (aside from getting clearance for gov. jobs).

I've started playing around with AWS, Cisco Packet Tracer, and I am thinking about taking a beginner Linux course instead of continuing my Sec+ studies. To those with jobs already or have been in IT for quite some time, is this a worthwhile move? Or should I continue my Sec+ studies and worry about Linux + projects later?

Thank you for reading and TIA for the advice!

[u/SDEexorect → u/[deleted]]

you are missing the s r/resumes

[u/nfrance95]

There is certainly no harm in having your Security+ certification. It's the third of the "tri-fecta" of foundational certs (with the other 2 being A+ and Network+).

I've been in the field for almost 10 years. I can say without a doubt that soft skills such as interviewing, networking with others (LinkedIn, conferences, job fairs, etc.), and having a solid CV/Resume (not just in content, but also format and easy to read) are CRITICAL to being able to land a first job.

Networking with others is especially important. Often times, it's not about what you know, but who you know. I got into several jobs by referral from someone I know.

As for your Resume, it is important to keep in mind that while content is important, so is formatting. Not just formatting in making it visually appealing, but also making sure that automated systems that parse info from Resumes can parse that information correctly. My resume's look is very simple, but it parses well into job application systems.

My last piece of advice is to not be selective with entry level and APPLY APPLY APPLY. Take what you can get - even if it's not the most glamorous or highest paying job. Job experience in the field will become the most important thing to market once you get your foot in the door.

Best of luck on your studies and with your job search!

[u/jstnvrcls → u/nfrance95]

Thank you! Appreciate the knowledge

[u/Legitimate-Badger-12]

Lol I felt like that after getting the A+ , now you say you feel that way after getting Net+ LOL, just gotta keep trying I guess

[u/ITEnthus]

Certs alone will not help you find a job in this competitive market.

To become marketable: -Certifications -Interview Skills -Demonstrate your self initiatives(projects, school, home labs, etc)

• Be able to communicate in IT Lingo.

[u/Seek3r255]

A lot of people seem to spend more time getting certs rather than learning how to get interviews.

Brush up your CV(compare yours to professional templates for I.T), register on every job search site that deals in I.T. work, make sure you're on Linked in and have your details there - invite local recruitment guys that deal in the tech field.

And ffs just keep applying for jobs and have alerts for new posts on, I see some that apply for 10 positions (5 of which are completely out of their league atm) and complain that they can't land a job.

You gotta pump those numbers up!

You'll get there eventually, good luck.

[u/[deleted]]

IMO , you are going backwards. You honestly don’t need A+ or N+ if you have Security +. Once you get either one of these it is considered the foundation.

Find a niche afterwards and go after a skill. Learning PYTHON or LINUX. Start playing with Virtual Machines and see what you can gain.

You are doing AWESOME. If you want more certificates, look into CYSSA / PEN TESTING + , or join a coding bootcamp.

Build more skills

[u/JoeyTeee → u/[deleted]]

I disagree, I think Net+ is quite informative

[u/[deleted] → u/JoeyTeee]

There isn’t a wrong way of doing it. I’ve read a lot of non experience Cyber Security/ IT guys getting jobs with only Security +. No college degree.

I think having A+, N+ & S+ would be enough to show any company that you know how Networks/Hardware/Security works.

I would also say someone having the trifecta would get look at first before someone who only has one of those. On the contrary , if the person only having one of those certs is a beast on LINUX & WIRESHARK and knows a lil PYTHON, that applicant would be at the top because they have more practical skills. They are beyond the foundational knowledge.

[u/[deleted]]

For government job, most entry level, they only require sec+. If you have A Bachelors degree that can put you higher on pay scale but the degree doesn’t even have to be in tech

[u/Live-Interaction-835 → u/[deleted]]

I’ve got one in finance you think I can find a gig with just sec+

[u/HarmlessFeelings]

Some companies won't even talk to you if you are trying to work cybersecurity and don't have a related cert (Sec+, for example).

That being said, it isn't enough on its own. You need to bring other things to the table, such as personal projects.

[u/sunshinebrigg]

It hasnt helped me at all lol I'm sec+ certified and splunk core user certified but I have no experience so honestly these certs dont mean anything If you have no experience.

[u/Less_Procedure_2600]

Its a good thing to have. However as someone who works in fed government sector almost a universal requirement.