While companies continue to develop digital strategies to remain competitive within their respective industry, they must also be on alert for the potential risks of hackers. Since the internet and other forms of technology make businesses more open to security breaches and threats, companies are increasingly investing in top information and/or network security talent to help keep their businesses protected from unauthorized third parties.

Therefore, if you’ve ever considered a career in, or a transition into one of these security roles, our Information Technology recruitment specialists encourage job seekers to consider certain certifications that can set your skill set and knowledge base apart from competitors. For example, if you are interested in an information security role, “the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) certification will give you a sharp edge over other IT professionals as it has the widest range of usability in the IT field,” says John Carey, a Director at ES Technology, a division of The Execu|Search Group. “Alternatively, the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) or the Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certifications are what’s hot in the current marketplace if you are considering network security or information systems (IS) audit roles.”

With this in mind, now’s the time to learn more about the certifications that may help make you stand out in your job search.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – This certification is in highest demand as it is one of the most difficult to attain. To become certified, you will be required to either:

• Successfully complete an exam, acquire 5 years of full-time work experience in an information systems type role (e.g., Information Security Officer, IT Risk Management, Compliance Analyst, etc.), and complete the (ISC)² Code of Ethics, OR;
• Receive a four year Bachelor’s degree in a stem related field and complete the (ISC)² Code of Ethics.

“Employers are looking for candidates with a combination of skills in operations security, risk management, cloud security, security management practices, or telecom, in addition to your certification,” notes John.

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – An increase in stricter governmental privacy and security regulations have resulted in a rise in the demand for IS audit professionals. For example, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act are just two pieces of legislation that have impacted the ways businesses use security measures and rely on their IT staff members. As a result, employers are seeking IS Auditors with the CISA certification to assess and monitor business systems.

Therefore, the CISA certification will give you a competitive edge over your peers who don’t possess this designation. The process includes successful completion of the CISA examination in addition to meeting the work experience requirements and completing the CISA Application for Certification. “With this credential clearly highlighted on your resume, you can potentially boost your earning potential, stand out in the hiring process, and enhance your professional recognition,” says John.

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) – Having the right professionals in place to catch a potential threat is precisely why companies are turning to ethical hackers. Organizations are looking for trustworthy IT specialists to identify holes in internal systems by hacking the organization’s network before their illegal counterparts get the chance to. Fortunately, the CEH certification shows your proficiency in keeping networks secure and your ability to ensure confidential information is kept safe. In order to attain this certification, you must pass an exam and possess 2 years of experience in the network security field (e.g., Network Security Engineer, Cyber Threat Analyst, IT Security Privacy & Risk, etc.).

Our IT recruiting specialists also recommend building your knowledge on various computer firewalls and sharpening your skills through online modules. For instance, the CCNA Security Modules and a number of firewall certifications (e.g., Pix, Norton, Cisco, etc.) are just a number of ways candidates can demonstrate a working knowledge of systems in this area. Pair at least one of these certifications with the CEH certification, and you will be better positioned to stand out throughout your job search.