Stepping into a cybersecurity interview can feel like entering a high-stakes arena, where every question tests both your expertise and character. With over a decade of experience in talent acquisition, I’ve seen firsthand the triumphs and challenges candidates face.
As a recruiter, I believe it’s essential to pick up on the subtle cues candidates give off. Having been in that seat myself, I make it a point to observe their behavior—if they seem anxious, I do my best to put them at ease. Creating a comfortable environment isn’t about making the process easier; it’s about giving candidates the space to truly showcase their potential.
At the end of the day, I genuinely want to see both the candidate and the company succeed. A great hire isn’t just about skills—it’s about alignment, culture, and potential. My experiences at McKinsey and various other professional experiences have shown me the profound impact of finding the right fit, and this insight shapes the way I approach every interview I lead.
Cybersecurity Interviewer Insights:
To guide you through this journey, consider these three pivotal insights:
1. Know What the Company Does
I’ve worked at global organizations with strong brand recognition, and I’ve engaged with numerous candidates, both tech and non-tech, who did not have a clear understanding of the company’s identity, culture, or operations. This shows a lack of preparation.
Conducting thorough and strategic research prior to engaging with recruiting can impact the feedback presented to the hiring leader from the initial screening. At a minimum, you should be prepared to share a concise high-level overview of the organization. Additionally, as you look to quickly develop a professional relationship with the interviewer, knowing some background information on them can help with the conversation.
2. Be Prepared to Discuss ANY Technology You Put on Your Resume
With the emergence of AI and it being implemented into Applicant Tracking Systems, there has been some discussion on how to “beat the bot”, however, there is a stark difference between having “functional” vs “hands-on” expertise when it comes to technology.
Are there multiple tools and applications that perform similarly, yes, but I can guarantee that part of the assessment process WILL have a technical round or two. The fastest way to be disqualified during these rounds is being asked about the specific tool or application on your resume and answering, “Well I’ve never actually used it, but I know what it does.”
3. Understand the "Level" of the Role
There are individual contributors, leaders, and those that do both, aka “the player/coach”. When you have an opportunity to interview for a role, then do your best to understand what the responsibilities are. In other words….read the job description! Your tone, mannerisms, and persona should align as closely as possible for what the assessor/recruiter is looking to understand.
For example, if the role is an individual contributor type role, then being a team player may be the best approach. If it's a leadership type role, then you may take on the tone and persona of a leader of the team but still be open to constructive ideas on how to grow professionally.
Approaching your interview with thorough research, genuine expertise, and a clear understanding of the role will not only showcase your qualifications but also demonstrate your commitment to contributing meaningfully to the organization's mission. Remember, preparation is the key to unlocking success in any endeavor.
The Path Forward: Excelling in Cybersecurity Interviews
Securing your ideal job in cybersecurity isn’t just about answering questions correctly—it’s about showing that you are the right person for the role. By researching the company, being ready to discuss every technology on your resume, and aligning yourself with the expectations of the position, you’ll set yourself apart from the competition. The best candidates walk into interviews with confidence, expertise, and a clear understanding of their value. Preparation isn’t just an advantage—it’s the foundation of career success.
