The Cyber Career Doctor Is In: An Interview With Kathleen Smith

If you’ve been laid off, furloughed or are just plain tired of everything, this episode is for you. Kathleen Smith, the longstanding cyber career expert at B-Sides (and beyond) joins us for a dialogue on what’s happening in the security job landscape. 

Lost your job? Kathleen explains a tried and true process for recovery, reflection and finding your next gig. Not to mention a few surprising options for those who aren’t afraid of a little adventure, such as the military reserves or a job in one of the often overlooked national laboratories.

In a rare moment of good news this year, Kathleen explains how COVID-19 has driven an increase in cyber security jobs both in the government and commercial sectors in response to a recent increase in threat activity.  If you’re willing to put in the extra effort (and put down your cannabis), she also describes what it takes to score a government clearance and gain access to an entirely new pool of opportunities.

Once a coveted perk, remote work has blown the job market wide open for all. Roles once restricted to those within a certain location are now broadly accessible. However, working far away from your colleagues in your house has serious implications for your social relationships, energy and health  that many are only beginning to understand. Kathleen breaks down how to recreate boundaries between one’s personal and professional life, a skill she learned the hard way during her time in non-profits such as the American Red Cross and World Wildlife Fund.

Before wrapping up, Kathleen talks directly to leaders and how she has adapted her style in 2020 to meet the extraordinary challenge while avoiding burnout. We hope our hour plus conversation with Kathleen is a welcome break from whatever you’re facing right now, providing you with help in your current job or a fresh perspective on what to do next.