In this insightful episode of The TechTual Talk, host Henri welcomes Aria, a seasoned GRC (Governance, Risk, and Compliance) professional and job search strategist, to discuss her journey in the cybersecurity field. Aria shares her experience in developing projects showcasing her expertise in government risk compliance and frameworks, including a risk assessment framework that impressed recruiters and hiring managers. She provides valuable advice on creating compliance management systems and assessing security awareness, two essential projects for demonstrating GRC knowledge. Aria also introduces "pursuitly," her job search strategy service, and delves into the strategies she employs to help job seekers succeed in their GRC career pursuits. She highlights common mistakes made by newcomers to the field, such as a scattered approach, lack of a plan, and an overemphasis on titles and salaries. Throughout the episode, Aria stresses the importance of guidance and resources in starting and succeeding in any endeavor. The conversation also touches on the prevalence of multi-level marketing tactics in career coaching and tech courses, with Henri and Aria cautioning against false promises and high prices. Aria shares her own experience of using free resources to create her own curriculum and advises listeners to be wary of paid programs that lack value. The duo also discusses the importance of gaining experience and being open to various job opportunities, including hybrid roles. In a candid moment, Aria reveals her career progression, from a $55k fraud analyst to a nearly $100k increase in GRC roles, emphasizing the value of GRC professionals with technical backgrounds. She leaves the audience with three key takeaways: a proactive approach to learning, commitment to excellence, and the willingness to work independently. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in pursuing a career in GRC, looking for job search strategies, or seeking to enhance their cybersecurity knowledge. With Aria's expertise and Henri's engaging hosting style, Techtual Chatter delivers valuable insights and practical advice for navigating the complex world of cybersecurity and compliance. Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-techtual-talk/donations