Finding your first job in any field is often a challenge. But your first job in cybersecurity? With no previous experience? That may seem impossible, but it’s not.

According to the (ISC)² Cybersecurity Workforce Study 2020 , the cybersecurity workforce needs to grow by 89% to effectively defend organizations’ critical assets; however, that doesn’t mean jobs are easy to find for all eager applicants. Organizations can often set their expectations unrealistically high, making it hard to fill these roles.

A cybersecurity hire doesn’t necessarily need to have previous experience to be the right fit for the position. There are many skills and personality traits that, when combined, create an excellent candidate for entry- or early career-level cybersecurity positions. Passion for learning, determination, critical thinking and non-technical skills are increasingly viewed as essential in this industry.

We spoke to cybersecurity experts who have been in your shoes and compiled feedback from them to create a five-step guide to help you find the right cybersecurity job for you.

1. Identify a Position That Interests You – The field of cybersecurity is broad and includes many different types of roles. Find the jobs that interest you the most and focus your job search.
2. Stay Current on the Cybersecurity Profession and Industry – Once you’ve selected your desired role as your objective, research the responsibilities associated with them and learn as much as you can through mentoring and courses , including free (ISC)² webinars .
3. Find the Right People to Help You — Use LinkedIn to connect with members of cybersecurity teams at organizations where you want to work or join virtual and local cybersecurity groups to build your network. These new connections may turn out to be great mentors and future advocates for you.
4. Demonstrate Your Relevant Transferrable Skills – You may have many relatable traits and non-technical skills such as analytical thinking, creativity, communications and project management that transfer well to a cybersecurity position. Be prepared to show how your past skills and experiences have prepared you for a cybersecurity career.
5. Show Them Your Passion – Professionals with perseverance, problem-solving skills and commitment to life-long learning are assets to cybersecurity teams. Prove you have the passion it takes to learn the job and that you are committed to the mission.

Check out the full plan, along with supporting information and resources, in “How to Get a Cybersecurity Job ” and start down the cybersecurity career path.

Plus, connect with your peers on the free (ISC)² Community where you can find open cybersecurity jobs or ask mentoring questions on the career discussion board .