Why can’t I get a job as a cybersecurity graduate?

If you’re a cybersecurity graduate struggling to land your first role, you’re not alone. Despite constant headlines about a skills shortage, many graduates find themselves sending out dozens of applications with little response. As a recruitment firm working with Australia’s leading cyber employers, our recruitment consultants have seen this disconnect first-hand. In this blog, we’ll delve into some of the hurdles are, and what you can best do to stand out and get that grad job!

The Experience Gap

One of the biggest hurdles for graduates is the gap between their studied knowledge and practical, workplace skills. Many employers expect new hires to be job-ready from day one, with hands-on experience in tools, processes, and real-world problem-solving. But if you’re a grad, you’re not going to have that workplace experience, so even entry-level roles often requiring “2–3 years’ experience”, is an impossible ask for someone fresh out of university. This creates a frustrating cycle for graduates, where you need experience to get a job, but you need a job to gain experience.

Soft Skills

According to CSO Online , today’s CISOs aren’t just hiring for technical depth, they're looking for people who can communicate risks clearly, work with stakeholders, and influence business decisions. Soft skills like communication, teamwork, and adaptability are often the difference between landing a role and missing out. Many graduates underestimate just how important these skills can be in a field where cyber professionals regularly brief non-technical executives or coordinate with cross-functional teams.

Specialising

We often see graduates submitting the same generic resume to dozens of roles. But cybersecurity is a vast field. Employers want to know: what are you passionate about? Cloud security? Incident response? Risk management? Threat intelligence? It can be helpful to take the time to learn and find out what your interests are within the field.

Our Graduate Tips for Success

1. Research and Network

Attend industry meetups, join LinkedIn discussions, and connect with recruiters who specialise in cyber. Do your research and look into internships or graduate programs, find out what they’re really going to offer and make sure it suits your goals. And don’t put all your eggs in one basket; graduate programs tend to be highly competitive, so apply for as many that interest you. It is highly recommended that you attend as many meetups and conferences as possible, as this increases your commercial conversation and business acumen, whilst expanding your network in the process.

2. Certifications

Have a look at some targeted certifications. Entry-level badges like CompTIA Security+ or cloud certifications can help bridge the experience gap, plus they show your potential employer that you’re keen to learn more.

3. Refine your Resume

Take the time and tailor your CV and cover letter to the role that you’re applying for, and be clear about where your interests and strengths lie. This shows employers you’ve done your research and know the value you bring.
Breaking into cybersecurity as a graduate isn’t easy, but it can be done. It requires more than just sending out resumes and hoping for the best. You need to do your research, network, demonstrate a keenness to learn, show off your soft skills, and position yourself as someone who can grow into the role.

At Decipher Bureau, we work with graduates every day to help them bridge that gap and connect with organisations that value fresh talent. Contact us for a confidential chat with one of our expert consultants, and let’s work together to find your perfect role.