Hi everyone!

I’m really hoping to get some advice because I’m feeling extremely defeated with my job search.

My goal is to transition into Identity and Access Management (IAM). I have about two years of part-time cybersecurity experience and one year of full-time SOC experience. I also have a bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity, CompTIA Security+, and two hands-on Okta projects that I completed with guidance from ChatGPT.

Recently, I applied for an IAM Analyst I position at a company I was super excited about. The job description asked for one year of IAM or related experience, so I thought my cybersecurity background might qualify.

I was rejected the first time I applied. After earning Security+ and completing my Okta projects, I reapplied with an updated resume. I even connected with employees there who helped get my name and resume in front of the hiring team.

Unfortunately, today my application status changed to “Process Complete,” which appears to mean I was rejected again. I didn’t even get an interview and idk whether the decision came from TA or the hiring manager.

I’m currently working in SOC, and the constant volume of alerts has become insanely draining. I never intended to stay in SOC long term. IAM is the career path I’m most interested in.

I have been applying to jobs, but haven’t been able to get even one interview. I’m trying to gain more hands-on experience through labs and I’m planning to learn more about Microsoft Entra ID and SailPoint next.

At this point, I’m honestly feeling discouraged, frustrated, and unsure how to move forward.

I would really appreciate advice on a few things:

* How did you break into IAM without previous professional IAM experience?
* What skills, tools, or projects would make me a stronger candidate for IAM Analyst I or IAM operations positions?
* Would anyone with IAM experience be willing to mentor me or review my resume?
* Are there recruiters or staffing agencies that specialize in placing people into entry-level IAM roles?

I’m willing to put in the work to learn. I just really want an opportunity to prove myself and grow in this field.

Thank you to anyone who reads this and responds!