How to Navigate Cybersecurity as an Introvert

Network. Network. Network.

And not the wired kind….

If that sentence strikes fear into you, then you too may identify as an introvert, and expend energy presenting as an extrovert – or perhaps, like me you have moments of extroversion.

When I first stepped into the cybersecurity space to look around, one piece of advice came up repeatedly: “you have to network.” Like advice from my coaches in the ring about distance management, networking was the omnipresent concept.

It’s not surprising; networking builds relationships, strengthens knowledge, and opens doors. But networking can be exhausting for introverts. And yet, in cybersecurity, where security is more than a buzzword, there’s a deeper layer. It’s about the people you interact with, and the kind of person you are.

In this space, networking often acts as a kind of pre-vetting. Many roles exist in the shadow job market. Never advertised, they are just passed along quietly and filled behind closed doors. So, those connections? They matter.

Still, that doesn’t make it easy. Like managing distance in boxing, managing networking has to be framed in a way that makes sense for the individual. Susan Cain captures it beautifully: forget ‘networking’ – it turns people into cogs in a machine. Instead, just look for kindred spirits – the rest takes care of itself.

It seems like cybersecurity self-selects for the kindred spirits, it’s not a field which rewards idleness, and it’s populated by the curious. The spectrum of personality types is broad, and in this space, as in writing I feel I belong. Which isn’t always the case for introverts.

The first time I stepped through the ropes and into the boxing ring to face my opponent, I felt like a fraud, and often still do – the imposter-syndrome is real, but getting uncomfortable always moves the needle, even if it doesn’t feel like it at the time.

So, I’ve started to think about extroversion as gear – like donning my mouth guard and gloves to fight – you dress for the occasion. You don’t wear it all day, because that would be exhausting, but when it’s time to show up, you’re ready. You’ve trained for it.

Here are my top three takeaways for fellow introverts navigating cybersecurity:

1. Talk to people – even if you feel like an imposter. Every conversation builds skill and confidence, even when you think you have nothing to offer. We all bring unique work and life experience to the table, and there’s a place for that. Chatting with a variety of people can also help you to clarify the direction you want to take in cyber.
2. You’re not alone. There’s often a canyon between how people present, and how they actually feel. That’s normal.
3. Prioritise quality over quantity. Extroverts may thrive on volume, but introverts get depth. Don’t fight it – lean into it.

I’ve realised there are alternate pathways into this field – quiet, deliberate ones that still go the distance – and I’ve accepted, that they may take a little longer, but that’s ok, because, comparison kills joy.