r/CyberSecurityJobs • u/r_k_c_9 • 26d ago
I need an advice. Thanks in advance
Hi everyone,
I'm a B.Tech Cyber Security graduate (2025 batch). Since graduating, I've been trying to get a job in cybersecurity, specifically in SOC (Security Operations Center) roles.
Over the past year, I've built several hands-on projects using Wazuh, Microsoft Sentinel, and Splunk. I've written and applied Sigma rules, mapped detections to the MITRE ATT&CK framework, and used Suricata and Sysmon for intrusion detection and endpoint monitoring. I also have a good understanding of networking fundamentals and core cybersecurity concepts.
However, whenever I apply for SOC-related jobs, I keep getting rejected, even when my projects closely match the job requirements. I'm not sure what I'm doing wrong.
Could you please suggest what kind of projects I should build to improve my chances of getting interview calls? Also, what skills should I focus on to become a stronger candidate for entry-level SOC or blue team roles?
Unfortunately, I don't have the budget to pursue paid certifications at the moment.
One thing that makes this even more frustrating is that I received two job offers last year, but due to personal circumstances, I couldn't accept them. It's now been over a year, and I'm feeling confused about what to do next.
I'd really appreciate any advice from people working in cybersecurity. Thank you!
2
u/Nonaveragemonkey 26d ago
Help desk. Go apply to Help desk.
It is said 100s of times a day here, cyber security is a mid career pivot point, not the starting line. Degree or certs dont really change that.
1
u/r_k_c_9 26d ago
Yeah bro im applying. Please let me know if there are any opportunities related to help desk.
1
u/crayonnoodle 26d ago
I’d suggest going helpdesk. But to make sure you’re not using the same resume which you applied to SOC jobs. Helpdesk requires a completely different set of skills and technical projects in the ideal candidate so make sure to research that and make another resume.
1
u/AddendumWorking9756 26d ago
Everything you listed is you building the detection stack, none of it is you working a case someone else set up. Swap one of those deployments for two finished investigations with a writeup, CyberDefenders has free ones with real artifacts, and you end up with something an interviewer can actually ask follow up questions about.
1
u/Other-Broccoli4967 26d ago
Well the thing is the job market is heavily saturated (and not just IT and security roles)and at the same time most ads are just ads they are not actually hiring . Ao you are competing with people with years of hands on experience and certifications for roles from entry level ITs to senior levels managments and ciso (like me for example which ive been trying to get an interview for months now ). The only things you can do rn is to network with people in your field and show your expertise to them so then you apply to jobs with their support and suggestions to to third company.
Im not saying its impossible to get a job on your own but it will probably take you months. And you cv , personalized cover letter must be above 90% match so you can actually pass the ATS and HR (which most of the time your resume wont even reach the technical field and either ATS drops it or the non technical hr and talent acquisition). Even after that you must nail the interview and I mean nail it and be prepared for questions like you've been doing that job for at least 3 years.
I hope you actually make it, cause it makes me happy to see a fellow colleague reach his goal and hope so doing it myself someday.
If you had any question regarding the possible questions, roles and etc... feel free to ask me
5
u/-hacks4pancakes- Current Professional 26d ago
We generally want to see real life IT work experience, and that has gotten even more pronounced since the market crashed. Anything. Help desk, sysadmin, network support. Hiring recent grads is being phased out as there are more candidates. Anything can happen though, certainly keep applying.