Information Security Entry Level Jobs: How 2 Skills Get You Hired

I still remember staring at my computer screen, scrolling through yet another information security job posting that required "3-5 years of experience" for what was clearly labeled as an entry-level position. It was my fourth month of job hunting after completing my cybersecurity certification, and I was starting to wonder if breaking into this field was actually possible without already being in it. Sound familiar?

Here's the good news: despite what those intimidating job descriptions might suggest, information security is still absolutely accessible to newcomers. After spending the last five years mentoring dozens of career-changers into cybersecurity roles (and hiring quite a few myself), I've noticed a pattern. Two specific skills consistently help candidates land those elusive entry-level information security jobs—and they're probably not what you think.

In this text, I'll share what these important competencies are, a way to expand them efficiently, and most significantly, the way to exhibit them to able employers. Whether you're a recent graduate, a profession-changer, or just curious about opportunities in cybersecurity, you may walk away with actionable insights that can dramatically improve your chances of breaking into the sector.

The Current State of Entry-Level Information Security Jobs

Let's address the elephant in the room: yes, cybersecurity has an entry-level problem. A recent (ISC)² study found that while 57% of organizations report needing more information security professionals, only 12% are actively willing to hire and train candidates with no prior experience. That disconnect is real, and it's frustrating.

But here's what's interesting—and what gives me hope. When I interviewed hiring managers about this paradox, many admitted they would happily hire someone without traditional experience if they demonstrated certain capabilities. As one CISO told me, "I can teach someone security tools, but I can't teach them how to think about problems or communicate effectively."

That insight leads us directly to the two skills that consistently get entry-level candidates hired:

1. Problem-solving with a security mindset

2. Clear communication about technical concepts

Notice what's not on this list? Specific certifications, programming languages, or years of experience. While those things can certainly help, they're not the differentiators many assume. I've seen candidates with impressive certification collections get passed over for roles, while others with minimal formal credentials land great positions because they excelled at these two core skills.

Let's dig deeper into each one.

Skill #1: Problem-Solving with a Security Mindset

Information security isn't primarily about memorizing compliance frameworks or mastering specific tools (though those things matter). At its heart, it's about identifying vulnerabilities and solving problems before they become incidents.

Developing a "security mindset" means training yourself to think about how systems might fail or be exploited. It's that voice in your head that asks, "But what happens if someone tries to break this?" when everyone else is focused on making things work.

This mindset is valuable because it's transferable across virtually every security domain—from application security to network defense to policy development.

Here's how you can develop this skill (even without a formal cybersecurity job):

• Practice threat modeling everyday systems: Look at regular processes (like office badge access or online banking) and identify potential weaknesses. What could go wrong? How might someone exploit this system?

• Participate in CTF (Capture The Flag) competitions: These gamified security challenges teach you to think like both a defender and an attacker. Sites like TryHackMe and HackTheBox offer beginner-friendly options.

• Analyze security incidents in the news: When major breaches make headlines, dig into the technical details. Ask yourself: How could this have been prevented? What controls failed?

• Set up a home lab: Create a small network environment where you can safely practice security concepts. Even basic setups with virtual machines can provide valuable hands-on experience.

I remember mentoring Melissa, a former project manager with zero technical background. What set her apart was how she approached problems. When discussing a website vulnerability, she immediately asked insightful questions about how the flaw might impact customer data and business operations, showing she could connect technical issues to business risks. That security mindset helped her land a junior security analyst role despite competing against candidates with more traditional backgrounds.

(Side note: I once failed spectacularly at explaining the importance of a security mindset during a workshop by using an analogy about home security that accidentally convinced everyone I was overly paranoid about home invasions. Learn from my mistake—choose your analogies carefully!)

How to Demonstrate a Security Mindset in Interviews

Information security engineer interview questions often probe for this mindset, even if they don't explicitly say so. When interviewers ask questions like "How would you secure this application?" or present you with a scenario to analyze, they're evaluating your approach to problem-solving more than looking for specific answers.

Here are some strategies that work well:

• Demonstrate structured thinking: Frame your answers using a methodology like STRIDE (Spoofing, Tampering, Repudiation, Information Disclosure, Denial of Service, Elevation of Privilege) to show you can systematically identify threats.

• Consider the full attack surface: Don't focus only on obvious vulnerabilities. Think about physical security, social engineering, and supply chain risks as well.

• Balance security with usability: Acknowledge that perfect security often conflicts with usability and business needs. Show that you understand this tradeoff.

• Ask clarifying questions: Don't rush to answer. Ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate you're considering the problem from multiple angles.

During one interview, I was asked how I would secure a simple web application. Rather than jumping into technical controls, I asked about the business purpose of the app, what data it processed, and who its users were. The interviewer later told me this approach—understanding the context before recommending solutions—was exactly what they were looking for in a junior team member.

Skill #2: Communicating Technical Concepts Clearly

Here's an uncomfortable truth about information security: technical skills alone rarely get you hired or promoted. The ability to communicate complex concepts to non-technical stakeholders is often what separates successful security professionals from those who struggle to advance.

This is especially true in entry-level information security jobs, where you'll frequently need to:

• Explain security findings to developers or system administrators

• Document incidents or vulnerabilities clearly

• Justify security recommendations to management

• Translate technical risks into business impact

I've sat in countless meetings where brilliant security analysts couldn't get their recommendations implemented because they couldn't explain the "why" in terms that resonated with decision-makers. Don't be that person!

Effective communication in security contexts requires:

• Translation skills: Converting technical jargon into plain language without losing important nuance

• Audience awareness: Adjusting your message based on whether you're speaking to executives, technical teams, or end users

• Visual communication: Using diagrams, analogies, and examples to illustrate complex concepts

• Conciseness: Delivering the core message without overwhelming details (unless requested)

The elements of information security communication go beyond just technical accuracy—they include relevance, timeliness, and actionability. Your recommendation might be technically perfect, but if the recipient doesn't understand why it matters or what to do next, it will likely be ignored.

Developing Your Security Communication Skills

Like any skill, communicating about security improves with deliberate practice. Here are some approaches that have worked well for me and my mentees:

• Create a security blog: Writing regular articles forces you to organize your thoughts and explain concepts clearly. The feedback (or lack thereof) will quickly show you where your explanations fall short.

• Practice the "explain like I'm five" technique: Take a complex security concept and challenge yourself to explain it to someone with no technical background. If they understand the core idea, you're on the right track.

• Record yourself explaining concepts: This can be uncomfortable at first, but listening to recordings helps identify verbal tics, unclear explanations, or places where you get too technical.

• Volunteer to give presentations: Offer to deliver security awareness sessions at your current workplace or for community organizations. These low-stakes opportunities provide valuable practice.

One exercise I often suggest is to try explaining a recent security incident to three different audiences: a technical peer, a business executive, and a non-technical friend. The way you frame the issue, the details you emphasize, and the recommendations you provide should shift significantly based on who's listening.

(Full disclosure: I once completely bombed a presentation to senior executives because I spent 10 minutes explaining technical vulnerability details before getting to the business impact. Learn from my painful experience and start with "why this matters" before diving into "how it works"!)

Showcasing Communication Skills in Your Job Search

So, how do you demonstrate these skills when applying for information security entry-level positions? Here are some effective approaches:

• Craft clear, concise application materials: Your resume and cover letter are the first test of your communication abilities. If they're well-organized and free of jargon, you're already ahead of many candidates.

• Create a portfolio with writing samples: Include incident reports, vulnerability assessments, or blog posts that demonstrate your ability to explain technical concepts clearly.

• Prepare for the "explain a complex concept" question: Many information security interviews include some version of "explain [technical concept] as if I'm non-technical." Practice these explanations ahead of time.

• Follow the ELI5-ELI15-expert approach in interviews: When answering technical questions, start with a simple overview (explain like I'm 5), then add appropriate detail (explain like I'm 15), and only dive into technical specifics if the interviewer signals they want that depth.

• Ask thoughtful questions: The questions you ask reveal how you think. Prepare questions that demonstrate your understanding of both technical and business aspects of security.

Remember: Every interaction during your job search is an opportunity to demonstrate your communication skills. From your initial application to thank-you notes after interviews, employers are evaluating how effectively you'll be able to communicate as a team member.

Combining These Skills: A Real-World Example

Let me share a quick case study that illustrates how these two skills work together in practice.

Jamie was transitioning from a help desk role and applying for security analyst positions. Despite having only basic certifications, he created a simple project analyzing vulnerabilities in popular WordPress plugins. What made his project stand out wasn't the technical depth—it was how he presented his findings.

For each vulnerability, Jamie:

1. Explained the technical issue in clear language

2. Demonstrated the potential impact with a concrete example

3. Outlined different mitigation options with pros and cons

4. Created simple diagrams illustrating the vulnerability

5. Connected each issue to relevant compliance requirements

This venture showcased each of his safety mindsets (identifying and analyzing vulnerabilities) and his verbal exchange abilities (providing findings in reality with commercial enterprise context). He blanketed this assignment in his applications and discussed it in the course of interviews. Within two months, he had three activity offers—all from groups that, in particular, noted being inspired by his approach.

Addressing Common Entry-Level Challenges

At this point, you might be thinking: "This sounds great, but I still see job listings requiring years of experience or advanced certifications for entry-level positions!"

You're right, and it's frustrating. Here's how to address some common challenges:

Challenge: Job postings with unrealistic requirements

• Focus on what employers actually need rather than what they say they want

• Apply anyway if you meet 60% or more of the requirements

• Use your cover letter to highlight your problem-solving and communication skills

Challenge: Limited technical experience

• Create self-directed projects that demonstrate both technical aptitude and the two key skills

• Contribute to open-source security tools or documentation

• Participate in bug bounty programs (even if you don't find vulnerabilities, the process is valuable)

Challenge: Competition from candidates with degrees or certifications

• Differentiate yourself through demonstration of practical skills rather than credentials

• Build a portfolio that showcases real-world problem-solving

• Network strategically to find opportunities where your unique background is valued

One of my favorite success stories is Alex, who had no degree and no certifications but landed a security operations center (SOC) role by creating detailed write-ups of his home lab experiments. His clear documentation and thoughtful analysis of potential threats impressed the hiring manager far more than candidates with impressive credential lists but poor communication skills.

Taking Action: Your Next Steps

If you're serious about landing an entry-level information security job, here's a simple action plan focused on developing and showcasing these two critical skills:

1. Start a security learning journal

   • Document your learning process and insights

   • Analyze security news and incidents

   • Practice explaining complex concepts simply

2. Create one showcase project

   • Choose something that demonstrates both technical skills and security thinking

   • Document your process thoroughly

   • Explain your decisions and their security implications

3. Build a simple portfolio

   • Include your learning journal highlights

   • Showcase your project with clear explanations

   • Add any relevant professional or volunteer experience

4. Practice interview scenarios

   • Prepare for "how would you approach this problem" questions

   • Practice explaining technical concepts to non-technical friends

   • Develop stories that demonstrate your problem-solving process

5. Network strategically

   • Connect with professionals in roles you aspire to

   • Ask for feedback on your portfolio and approach

   • Seek mentorship from someone established in the field

Remember: Consistency matters more than intensity. Spending 30 minutes daily on these activities will yield better results than occasional eight-hour cramming sessions.

Final Thoughts: The Long Game in Information Security

Breaking into information security requires persistence. The path isn't always straightforward, but focusing on these two fundamental skills—problem-solving with a security mindset and clear communication—will serve you throughout your entire career, not just during your job search.

I've watched people from all backgrounds—retail workers, teachers, military veterans, and more—successfully transition into rewarding information security careers. What united them wasn't advanced technical knowledge or impressive credentials (though those can help). They could think critically about security problems and communicate their insights effectively.

So while you're building your technical skills and perhaps pursuing certifications, don't neglect these two foundational capabilities. They're often what ultimately convinces someone to take a chance on you for that first crucial role.

The cybersecurity field needs diverse perspectives and fresh thinking. If you bring a strong security mindset and effective communication skills to the table, you have something valuable to offer, regardless of your background or experience level.

What's your next step in developing these skills? I'd love to hear about your journey toward landing that first information security role!