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by Lisa Ventura MBE FCIIS
Chief Executive and Founder, Cyber Security Unity
As a lifelong learner, I always look out for new books, courses and other things to help me grow and develop in the cyber security industry. I also do many things to help support women in the cyber security industry and to raise awareness of cyber security as a career choice for women at any stage of their life whether they be leaving school, college or university and taking their first steps into the world of work, or if they are transitioning into the cyber security industry from a completely different industry.
Securely Yours: An Agony Aunt’s Guide to Surviving Cyber covers navigating these industry challenges and more. Authored by Amelia Hewitt and Rebecca Taylor, two prominent figures in the UK’s cyber security sector, this book surpasses traditional career guides with the use of a very relatable format of an “agony aunt” column, offering candid advice infused with personal anecdotes and experiences.
A Fresh Perspective on Cyber Security Careers
Amelia Hewitt and Rebecca Taylor’s approach is both innovative and refreshing. The way they have structured the book as a series of Q&A’s which covers real-world concerns in cyber security ranging from imposter syndrome and workplace authenticity to the elusive quest for work-life balance. Their backgrounds, Amelia Hewitt as the founder of CybAid and the Managing Director of Hewitt Partnerships, and Rebecca Taylor as a threat intelligence knowledge manager at Secureworks, lends strong credibility to their insights, making the guidance in their book both practical and relatable.
Tackling Taboo Topics with Honesty
One of the book’s standout features for me is its unflinching honesty and exploration of topics often considered taboo in professional settings. It covers things like addressing the nuances of active allyship to confront the realities of burnout for example, and through this the authors provide a safe space for readers to reflect and find solace. Their emphasis on the importance of emotional intelligence and organisational excellence challenges the notion of “soft skills,” positioning them as essential attributes in the cyber security industries.
Empowerment Through Shared Experiences
Interwoven throughout the book are narratives from various role models in the industry, each sharing their unique journeys and the challenges they’ve overcome. These first-hand accounts not only humanise the cyber security profession but also serve as a testament to the resilience and determination required to thrive in a male-dominated field. The inclusion of perspectives from male allies, such as Professor Ciaran Martin, former CEO of the National Cyber Security Centre and James (Jim) Wright, Founder and Managing Director of Principle Defence, highlights the strong importance of collective effort in ensuring an inclusive environment in the cyber security industry.
A Must-Read for Aspiring and Seasoned Cyber Professionals Alike
Whether you’re a newcomer contemplating a career in the cyber security industry or a seasoned professional seeking renewed inspiration, this book is absolutely for you. Securely Yours offers valuable insights tailored to various stages of a career and professional journey, while the authors’ commitment to authenticity, combined with their wealth of experience, makes this book a compelling read for anyone considering cyber security as a career pathway. I wish I had this book when I started out in cyber security, as I developed a personal brand by complete accident. My ex-wife used to call me “Cyber Geek Girl”, when I first transitioned into the cyber security industry back in 2009 when I joined her cyber security software development company, and the name stuck.
Since then, I’ve built a whole personal brand around the handle of “Cyber Geek Girl”, including this blog, and I would have benefitted massively from having some advice on personal branding, something that is included in Securely Yours. I can also relate to some of the other topics covered in the book including imposter syndrome, bullying/abuse, dealing with a toxic work environment, microaggressions and the importance of setting boundaries in the workplace. I used to say yes to absolutely everything as I was a huge people pleaser ever when it came to setting boundaries, then I would get overwhelmed and what’s when burnout would start to set it. As a neurodivergent person (diagnosed with autism, ADHD, dyspraxia and dyscalculia) setting boundaries is even more important and vital to me, as it helps to prevent sensory overload.
Final Thoughts
Securely Yours: An Agony Aunt’s Guide to Surviving Cyber is more than just a career manual. It is a triumph and the book I wish I had at the very start of my career in cyber security. It’s a heartfelt conversation between mentors and mentees, filled with wisdom, empathy, and actionable advice and insights.
In an industry that is fraught with many challenges and myths, Amelia Hewitt and Rebecca Taylor provide a roadmap for not only surviving in the cyber security industry, but thriving in it. Their work is a strong testament to the power of shared experiences and the importance of ensuring a supportive community within the cyber security industry for all.