Best Practices for Cyber Internships
Clear Expectations and Mentorship
Employers should clearly define the process for the intern and explain what is required of them. It is essential to go beyond simply listing tasks and provide a mentor to guide the intern throughout their internship. As Smith recommends, “I do fervently believe you essentially need a sponsor, someone who’s going to take the intern under his or her wing and nurture that relationship, nurture that person.”
Managing Expectations
Chiasson warns employers to manage their own expectations as carefully as they manage the interns themselves. Rather than expecting a unicorn to show up – an intern with one or more degrees, several technical certifications, and other prior workplace experience – she urges companies to “take them on and then train them based on what you require.”
Focusing Solely on Technical Skills Can Be a Mistake
Chiasson also cautions employers against focusing solely on teaching technical skills. She says cyber internships are an opportunity for many students and new grads to learn soft skills that are crucial in real-world infosec, such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and interacting with customers.
The Importance of Soft Skills
In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing cybersecurity landscape, it is essential for interns to develop these soft skills. By focusing on technical skills alone, employers may be missing out on the opportunity to shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. Chiasson emphasizes the importance of providing interns with a well-rounded experience that includes both technical and soft skills training.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cyber internships offer a unique opportunity for students and new grads to gain valuable experience in the field of cybersecurity. By providing clear expectations, mentorship, and training, employers can help shape the next generation of cybersecurity professionals. It is essential to remember that focusing solely on technical skills can be a mistake, and that soft skills are just as important in real-world infosec.
FAQs
Q: What are the most important skills for a cybersecurity intern to have?
A: In addition to technical skills, soft skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and interacting with customers are crucial in real-world infosec.
Q: How can employers ensure that their interns are getting the most out of their internship?
A: Employers can ensure that their interns are getting the most out of their internship by providing clear expectations, mentorship, and training. It is also essential to manage expectations and provide a well-rounded experience that includes both technical and soft skills training.
Q: What are some common mistakes that employers make when it comes to cyber internships?
A: One common mistake that employers make is focusing solely on teaching technical skills. This can be a mistake, as cyber internships are an opportunity for many students and new grads to learn soft skills that are crucial in real-world infosec.
Q: How can interns make the most of their cyber internship?
A: Interns can make the most of their cyber internship by being proactive, asking questions, and seeking feedback from their mentors. It is also essential to be open to learning and willing to take on new challenges.
