How To Become a Cybersecurity Sales Engineer: Step-by-Step Guide
Learn about the steps important to pursuing a career as a Cybersecurity Sales Engineer, including education, skills, salary and more.
Cybersecurity sales engineers are responsible for developing and managing sales strategies for cybersecurity products and services. They work with clients to identify their needs and recommend solutions that will help protect their businesses from cyber threats. In order to become a cybersecurity sales engineer, you need to have a strong background in both sales and cybersecurity. In this article, we discuss what a cybersecurity sales engineer does, the average salary for this position and the steps you need to take to pursue this career.
What Does a Cybersecurity Sales Engineer Do?
A cybersecurity sales engineer is responsible for working with a company’s sales team to sell products and services related to cybersecurity. They are the bridge between the technical aspects of a product or service and the sales team, who may not have the same level of expertise. A cybersecurity sales engineer must be able to understand the needs of potential customers and explain how the company’s offerings can meet those needs.
Some of their main responsibilities include:
- Understanding the features and capabilities of the company’s cybersecurity products and services
- Identifying potential customers and understanding their specific cybersecurity needs
- Working with the sales team to develop sales proposals and presentations
- Answering questions from potential customers about the company’s products and services
- Providing input on the development of new cybersecurity products and services
- Conducting demonstrations of the company’s products and services
- Attending trade shows and other events on behalf of the company
- Generating reports on sales activity and customer feedback
Cybersecurity Sales Engineer Salary and Job Outlook
The average salary for a cybersecurity sales engineer is $97,850. However, this figure can vary based on the level of experience, education, industry and geographical location of the engineer.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job prospects for cybersecurity sales engineers to grow at an average rate over the next decade. This is due to the increasing importance of cybersecurity in both the public and private sector. As more organizations become aware of the need to protect their data, they will seek out the expertise of these professionals.
How to Become a Cybersecurity Sales Engineer
Here are several steps you should take to become a Cybersecurity Sales Engineer.
1. Earn a bachelor’s degree in computer science, engineering, or a related field
A bachelor’s degree is the minimum education requirement for cybersecurity sales engineers. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree, but this is not always necessary.
A degree in computer science or engineering is ideal because it provides you with the knowledge and skills to understand how technology works. However, other degrees can also be useful depending on the type of products and solutions your employer offers. For example, a degree in information security, information assurance or network administration can also help you succeed as a cybersecurity sales engineer.
2. Gain experience with cybersecurity products and solutions
While pursuing your degree, you can gain experience with cybersecurity products and solutions by participating in internships or entry-level positions at security companies. These roles often involve testing and evaluating software applications and systems to identify vulnerabilities. You can also volunteer for a local chapter of the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) to learn about cybersecurity best practices.
3. Develop strong communication skills
Cybersecurity sales engineers must be able to clearly and concisely explain complex technical concepts to non-technical audiences. They need to be able to communicate the value of their products and solutions in a way that makes sense to executives, managers and other non-technical professionals.
This means cybersecurity sales engineers should have excellent public speaking skills and know how to use visual aids or other presentations to make their points clear.
4. Understand the sales process
The sales process for cybersecurity products and solutions is similar to that of other industries. It typically starts with an introduction from a company representative, followed by research on the client’s needs and presentation of a solution. The next steps are negotiation and closing the deal.
Understanding the sales process can help you work more effectively with clients and provide them with the best experience possible. You may also find it helpful to study common sales tactics used in cybersecurity sales engineering.
5. Stay up to date on changes in technology
Cybersecurity is a rapidly changing field, and new developments occur regularly. It’s important for cybersecurity sales engineers to stay up to date on the latest products and solutions available so they can provide their clients with the most relevant information.
Cybersecurity engineers should also be aware of any changes in legislation that could affect their clients or the industry as a whole. For example, if the government passes a law requiring companies to encrypt sensitive data, this could impact your client’s business and require them to make changes to their security systems.
6. Join professional organizations such as the Information Systems Security Association (ISSA)
The Information Systems Security Association (ISSA) is an organization that provides cybersecurity training and certifications, as well as networking opportunities for professionals in the field. Membership with ISSA can help you stay up to date on changes in technology and learn about new products and solutions available in the industry.
Joining a professional organization like ISSA can also help you find employment after graduation. Many employers look at professional organizations when hiring because they know it’s a good way to find qualified candidates.
7. Consider getting certified through the International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium (ISC)
The International Information Systems Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)2, is an independent, nonprofit organization that offers several cybersecurity certifications. These certifications can help you demonstrate your knowledge and skills in information security to employers.
The most common certification for cybersecurity sales engineers is the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). This credential requires five years of experience in three out of five areas: administration, engineering and management. You must also pass a written exam. The next level up from CISSP is the certified information security manager (CISM), which focuses on managing cybersecurity risks.
