Have you ever felt underqualified for a cyber security position i.e. a technical promotion, lateral move from blue to red or stepping up to ‘Head of’? Ever thought that some of the highly talented security people around you are in another league? If the answer to these questions is yes, then you’re not alone. Regardless of the type of cyber security job you currently maintain, imposter syndrome in cyber security is very common.
FACT - Cybersecurity is a highly stressful environment! The stakes are high, and the pressure is on. No matter how many security certifications you have successfully completed, it’s only natural to experience the occasional wave of doubt or insecurity about your skills. When the going gets tough, you may even feel as though you’re underqualified, even though you’re perfectly capable of handling the situation at hand. The fluid threat landscape, constantly changing technology and competitive work environment inherent to the field quite often triggers imposter syndrome.
Ego is also a major issue in the cybersecurity world. The very nature of the attack-defence culture drives this ego hierarchy where everyone is competing and comparing. With this constant uncertainty and fear of judgment, some security professionals can end up operating in a constant cycle of self-doubt.
Imposter syndrome is a psychological issue that many humans suffer from to some degree. As a form of self-doubt, some successful cybersecurity professionals believe they’re unworthy of their success. These professionals see their success as possibly due to luck, rather than being a reflection of their talent, work ethic and commitment. Many highly successful security professionals share this feeling. Despite what those outside of the security industry may perceive, the further these professionals climb in their career, the further they admit to spiralling into imposter feelings.
People with imposter syndrome are sometimes hard to spot in the workplace. They may feel like the best team contributor of the quarter, but to the trained eye they may tend to lay low and not ask too many questions. They may also avoid sharing ideas, accepting new challenges or avoid networking with the broader tech community. Here are some tips to tackle imposter syndrome.
Although imposter syndrome was discovered >40 years ago, it’s still alive and well in 2023. It can affect security professionals at any level and at any time of their career – graduate all the way to CISO. If you have experienced imposter syndrome, back yourself, find a mentor if possible, commit to ongoing training & development and channel your inner strength to overcome it.
The Decipher Bureau effect - If you need support finding the right cyber talent or workplace in the year ahead, contact our team of specialist cybersecurity recruiters at the Decipher Bureau here or via LinkedIn.