JEMMA LAWRENCE
WOMEN IN CYBER SECURITY FROM A RECRUITERS PERSPECTIVE by Jemma Lawrence, Recruitment Consultant at CyberSec People As a woman who has worked in recruitment for a
they meet all the criteria listed in the job description.
number of years it is great to see a genuine desire
On the other hand, men will typically throw their hat
for diversity and a huge demand for women in
in the ring regardless of how many of the selection
cybersecurity. It is awesome to see new women
criteria they meet. This is a phenomenon that
coming into the industry. It means we will see
disadvantages women because they are less likely
many more women in leadership positions in a few
to apply for more senior roles (referred to as ‘stretch
years. These women are being inspired to fulfil their
roles’ by LinkedIn).
untapped potential and they inspire others to embark on their career journeys.
However, the world has had to adjust post-Covid and companies are hiring outside their usual scope.
I am fortunate to work for CyberSec People, the most
Simply ticking off a laundry list of experience and
engaged recruitment company in the cybersecurity
qualifications is no longer sufficient. It does not
industry. One of the great things about CyberSec
take into consideration transferable skills: abilities
People is that we attend most infosec events
candidates have learned throughout life that are
nationally, giving us great exposure. This means
useful in a new job.
clients and candidates reach out to us for industry information and advice. Through these interactions
As a recruiter for governance, risk and compliance
I know our clients are committed to diversity
specialists I speak to women in the industry daily
and to attracting and promoting women in the
who are passive job seekers, and typically would not
cybersecurity industry.
consider applying for a role more senior than their current role.
However, I notice women still undervalue themselves,
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not only in cybersecurity but in most industries.
It is extremely rewarding to help anyone into a new
Women are reluctant to apply for positions unless
position, but especially to help women who may not
W O M E N I N S E C U R I T Y M A G A Z I N E
N O V E M B E R • D E C E M B E R 2022
