Information technology functions as the heart of modern businesses. IT professionals are responsible for ensuring the efficiency, security, and constant innovation of digital processes, making them crucial to an organization's success demonstrate your value and be recognized as an IT professional.
Being an IT professional , especially with the growing need for cybersecurity , can be a real challenge. Many tasks, because they are part of the routine, end up going unnoticed by other departments. Furthermore, the fact that it is a highly technical job makes it difficult to understand for those without knowledge in the area.
According to a survey conducted by Check Point Research , the threat intelligence arm of Check Point Software, there has been a 30% increase in cyberattacks worldwide compared to 2023. Therefore, considering this data, we have prepared this article with seven practical tips for IT professionals, especially those specializing in cybersecurity, to stand out, demonstrate their value, and gain the recognition they deserve.
1. Understand the business needs
The first step to standing out as an IT professional is to deeply understand the needs of the business you're in. This means knowing the company's objectives , the challenges it faces, and the opportunities. In this sense, it's not enough to simply master the tools and technologies used; it's essential to understand how IT can be a strategic ally for the company's growth.
Understanding the company's goals allows you to align your IT activities and projects with those guidelines, directly supporting the organization's top executives. For example, if the company's main focus is digital expansion , you can work on implementing measures to ensure the security of new processes. In other words, understanding business needs also facilitates dialogue with other departments. By communicating and exchanging information transparently with managers and demonstrating your ability to contribute to the company's growth and success, you increase your relevance and recognition.
Strategic alignment
Understanding the organization's objectives cybersecurity professionals , who need to ensure that solutions deliver protection for the company without compromising the flexibility or innovation necessary for its growth.
Participating in meetings with leadership and other departments is a great opportunity to better understand the needs of each sector and align IT strategies with the challenges and opportunities faced. Thus, direct involvement in discussions about business goals demonstrates that IT is an integral part of the organization's success.
Furthermore, this closer relationship allows for the opportunity to anticipate potential security needs. An example of this is the cyberattacks that have been occurring since last week, when the X platform had its operations suspended in the country. Organizations such as the Supreme Federal Court, the Federal Police, and Anatel (the Brazilian telecommunications regulatory agency) were targets of massive retaliatory attacks.
Having a good understanding of the organization's strategic goals will allow you to offer preventative rather than reactive solutions, bringing greater visibility to your work and, consequently, more recognition.
Translate needs into safety actions
To stand out as a cybersecurity , it is essential to transform business needs into concrete security actions . To do this, it's necessary to understand the challenges the company faces and offer solutions that provide greater protection for digital assets without disrupting operational flow. If your business is migrating to a new digital platform , for example, the IT professional's role is to ensure that this transition occurs safely and smoothly, minimizing risks and vulnerabilities.
A practical approach is to use your technical knowledge to implement customized and scalable security solutions . Therefore, instead of offering generic solutions, adapt tools and protocols to the organization's environment and objectives. This customization demonstrates that you not only understand technology but are also committed to the company's success.
Providing concrete examples for your work is essential to reinforcing its value. If the company's focus is digital expansion, implement robust measures to protect the data of new customers, anticipate potential attacks, and create a more secure digital environment. By aligning your actions with the company's objectives, you make your role more visible and valued.
2. Stay up-to-date with IT trends
We know that the IT field is constantly evolving, with new technologies adding value and increasing the need to combat threats that arise every day. For this reason, keeping up-to-date with industry trends is essential to stand out and ensure that your solutions are always ahead of the challenges. An IT professional who masters technological innovations is more likely to be recognized as a valuable asset to the organization.
Keeping up-to-date with new technologies also allows you to adopt and evaluate the best tools to suit your company's reality. Technologies such as artificial intelligence focused on threat detection, process automation, and advanced encryption are just a few examples of what can be added to bring more security and value to your solutions.
It's also necessary to keep up with certifications and training relevant to your field. This demonstrates your commitment to excellence and the continuous improvement of company processes. Always participate in technology industry conferences and workshops to acquire new knowledge and expand your network.
New threats and emerging technologies
cybersecurity landscape is constantly evolving, with different threats emerging every day. According to CheckPoint Research , there were 1,636 cyberattacks per week in the second quarter of 2024. From ransomware zero-day vulnerability exploits , cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated. Therefore, to ensure company security, it is crucial that you, as an IT professional, are always aware of emerging trends and threats. To do this, it is essential to keep up with the latest news and studies in the field, and to undertake continuous training to stay updated.
Technological advancements contribute to the emergence of new opportunities to protect company systems. Innovative solutions that use artificial intelligence to detect threats have brought about a true revolution in how cybersecurity is currently approached. Artificial intelligence can monitor system behavior, identify anomalies in real time, enabling a more immediate and effective response to attacks. Adopting these emerging technologies not only improves security but also demonstrates a company's commitment to innovation and modernity.
Beyond cyber threats and new protection technologies, the growth of the Internet of Things and the popularization of cryptocurrencies have brought new challenges to security strategy. Therefore, devices and objects that are often poorly protected end up becoming points of vulnerability and entry points for intruders. Similarly, the use of cryptocurrencies in ransomware attacks makes it difficult to track criminals. In other words, staying ahead of these changes and understanding their implications is fundamental to developing more comprehensive and effective security strategies.
Investment in certification and education
For an IT professional, technical knowledge is the most important asset. However, in a rapidly evolving field, investing in certifications and education to remain competitive. Certifications in cybersecurity, data analytics, and network management are a smart way to validate your skills and demonstrate your commitment to professional growth.
Investing in education isn't limited to formal certifications. Conferences , workshops , and webinars are excellent ways to learn from leading industry experts and stay up-to-date on best practices and technologies. Therefore, participating in industry events is a way to gain practical and valuable insights that can be immediately applied to your role, as well as strengthen your network . All of this helps increase your visibility and add value within the company.
Relevant certifications, such as Ethical Hacking , SOC (Security Operation Center) , and risk management , are highly valued in the cybersecurity market. Having these credentials proves you possess the necessary knowledge to protect your IT system against increasingly sophisticated threats. By continuously investing in your training, you enhance your skills and open new career opportunities, increasing your value within the company.
3. Offer proactive solutions
Proactivity is a highly valued trait in any field, and the IT sector is no different. Knowing how to identify vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by cybercriminals and proposing solutions for continuous improvement helps demonstrate that you are always one step ahead. Conducting regular audits of company systems to look for flaws is an example of acting proactively.
Developing an incident response plan is equally important. That is, establishing a well-structured plan ensures that the company is prepared to deal with threats, reducing the impact of an attack and demonstrating the importance of your work. These measures reinforce your position as a strategic professional within the organization.
Furthermore, proposing improvements to security processes, justifying your suggestions with consolidated data , shows that your proposals are based on real-world analysis and examples. Using companies that have suffered attacks as examples can help convince leadership to invest in your ideas.
Risk anticipation
Anticipating risks is a critical skill for IT professionals, especially in cybersecurity. The ability to foresee potential threats and vulnerabilities before they cause real problems can help a company avoid significant losses and ensure business continuity. Therefore, implementing a proactive approach includes conducting security audits , detailed infrastructure analysis, and process evaluation. Audits allow IT professionals to identify and correct weaknesses in the system before cybercriminals exploit them.
Another essential tool for anticipating risks is the constant monitoring of the digital environment. Implementing real-time monitoring solutions allows for the identification of anomalous or suspicious behavior and immediate action to neutralize threats. This requires implementing intrusion detection software and access log tracking , which help identify unusual activities and facilitate a rapid response.
Furthermore, anticipating risks should be an integral part of the company's long-term strategic planning. In other words, it is crucial to foresee how new technologies, regulations, and trends may affect the organization's digital security. The increasing migration to the cloud environment, for example, demands a new security approach that must be evaluated and implemented to avoid future problems. Anticipating these movements and suggesting preventative solutions will help IT professionals demonstrate their value as a strategic asset to the company.
Proposal for improvement
Suggesting continuous improvements is an effective way to add value to your role as an IT professional within the company, demonstrating your commitment to the constant enhancement of the technological infrastructure. Instead of waiting for problems to arise, adopt a proactive stance by suggesting improvements that help prevent vulnerabilities and optimize processes. Assess and identify areas or deficiencies that can be improved or where there is a need to strengthen security, proposing solutions that address these issues directly and effectively.
Process automation , for example, is a useful approach that can reduce manual workload and minimize human error, leading to greater operational efficiency. Therefore, propose implementing tools that help automate repetitive tasks, such as applying security patches , monitoring networks , and managing backups . These improvements will save time and ensure more accurate execution of critical processes.
Your proposals need to be justified based on solid data and concrete examples , ensuring leadership support. Use performance metrics , case studies , and comparisons with other companies in the same sector to demonstrate how your suggestions can generate positive results. Provide solid evidence to reinforce the importance of your proposals and increase the likelihood of implementation.
4. Implement DNS Filtering Tools
An important tip for noticeably and quickly improving company security is to implement DNS filtering tools . This technology allows you to block access to malicious websites and significantly reduces the risk of cyberattacks. In addition to contributing to improved security, DNS filtering also helps keep employees focused on their tasks by blocking websites and pages that are not work-related.
Adopting a solution like Lumiun DNS , for example, can be efficient and quite simple. By clearly defining the implementation steps, from configuration to monitoring, you can see visible results in a short time. In this way, your company will see an immediate reduction in threats and an increase in employee productivity, adding even more value to their role within the organization.
Delivering concrete results is an excellent way to demonstrate the value of your proposed security initiatives, especially when compared to previous metrics. It also reinforces the perception that IT is directly contributing to the company's success.
Benefits of a DNS Filtering Solution
Implementing a DNS filtering can bring several significant benefits to a company's operational efficiency and cybersecurity. DNS filtering acts as an additional line of defense, blocking access to malicious websites and domains known to be sources of attacks and threats. Based on this, it significantly reduces the risk of malware infections and phishing , protecting the integrity of data and systems. The ability to intercept and filter suspicious traffic before it reaches devices is a fundamental preventative measure for maintaining company security.
DNS filtering contributes to improved employee productivity. Blocking access to non-work-related websites helps keep employees focused on their tasks, preventing distractions and access to content that could harm productivity. In addition to improving overall team performance, this also reduces time spent on unproductive activities during work hours.
DNS filtering solution can generate significant savings for businesses. By preventing attacks and data leaks, it reduces expenses associated with incident remediation and the loss of valuable information. Furthermore, DNS filtering also minimizes the need for additional technical support and frequent maintenance, resulting in an overall reduction in the organization's operational costs.
Lumiun DNS Implementation
Implementing Lumiun Lumiun DNS within your company is an important strategic step to enhance security and productivity. Lumiun DNS is an advanced DNS filtering solution that offers robust protection against cyber threats and improves operational efficiency. The implementation process begins with a detailed assessment of the company's needs and existing infrastructure, ensuring the solution is customized and perfectly suited to the IT environment.
Lumiun DNS is configured to filter internet traffic and block access to websites and domains known to be malicious. To do this, it is essential to integrate the solution with the network system and configure specific rules that meet the company's security policies. Conducting initial tests to ensure the solution is working correctly is crucial, especially to avoid negative impacts on services. Providing training for employees is equally fundamental to ensure a smooth transition and understanding of the new protocols.
Some numbers from Lumiun DNS
With proper implementation, Lumiun DNS yields very positive results. In 2024 alone, over 4.7 billion requests were filtered, with 523 million blocked. In addition to a significant reduction in the number of security incidents, such as phishing and malicious access attempts, employee productivity also improves.
Blocking non-work-related content reduces distractions and access to irrelevant pages. 28,436 filters were activated on the platform, with the top 10 being:
- Basic protection
- Blocking child sexual abuse content
- Blocking adult content
- Bing SafeSearch
- Blocking betting and gambling websites
- Piracy blockade
- AdBlock – Block ads and trackers
- Google SafeSearch
- Blocking parked domains
- Free Fire
Based on performance metrics and user feedback, Lumiun DNS not only reinforces security but also contributes to a more efficient and focused work environment. Therefore, we can understand the importance of investing in DNS filtering solutions with a proactive approach to security.
5. Communicate assertively
We know that often the work of IT professionals is invisible because the solutions implemented are too technical for other departments to understand their role. Therefore, knowing how to communicate effectively is fundamental to ensuring recognition of their work , so that everyone understands the importance of their actions and their role within the organization. One way to adopt more effective communication is by translating technical and complex terms into more accessible language. In this way, all departments can understand the impact that the tasks performed by the IT department have on the routine and continuity of the business.
Translation of technical terms
In the IT field, clear communication is essential for all stakeholders to understand the importance of security actions and implemented solutions. Translating technical terms into language more accessible to non-specialists is a fundamental skill for IT professionals seeking to stand out and be recognized within the company. In addition to facilitating understanding, this approach also creates closer alignment between teams and other areas of the company .
An effective approach is to simplify technical terms without losing precision . For example, a concept like a firewall can be described as a protective barrier that prevents unauthorized users from accessing important company information. Using analogies or comparisons to everyday situations helps make these concepts even more understandable.
Creating executive reports also helps in translating technical terms. Create documents that highlight the results and implications of IT actions using clearer, more objective language, including charts and summaries that provide an overview without overwhelming the reader with technical details. This way, leadership and other stakeholders can understand the value of IT initiatives and support their strategies more effectively.
Presentation of results
Creating clear and concise executive reports is also crucial. Show how the IT department's actions protect the company and add value to the business, highlighting the concrete benefits of its initiatives . Metrics can be used to illustrate, for example, the reduction in security incidents and even the increase in productivity after implementing a new tool .
Show how security initiatives not only protect but also transform the company's results. It's important for employees and teams to understand that what is done in the technology sector is not just about security, but also about the organization's growth .
6. Build a network of relationships
Building a network of relationships is fundamental both inside and outside the company. In addition to technical knowledge, IT professionals internal strategic discussions can also help align expectations and ensure that IT is always contributing to the company's objectives.
The better connected an IT professional is, the better their standing will be both inside and outside the company . In addition to training, constant communication with other professionals and industry leaders can make all the difference in enhancing their potential.
Internal networking
Internal networking is a fundamental strategy for the success and recognition of IT professionals within an organization. Building and maintaining strong relationships with colleagues from different departments will facilitate collaboration and also increase the visibility and influence of your work. In other words, integration with other teams helps to better understand the needs and challenges of each area, so that you can offer solutions that truly meet specific demands.
In this sense, participating in interdepartmental meetings and collaborating on cross-functional projects are excellent strategies for strengthening internal networking. Stay actively engaged in discussions about the initiatives and objectives of other areas, offering technical insights that help improve the overall success of projects . This involvement demonstrates your knowledge and willingness, and helps build a reputation for reliability and proactivity within the company.
In other words, when you demonstrate interest in the operations and teams of other departments, you position yourself as a valuable resource and facilitator of solutions . Promoting safety and efficiency within the company is an excellent starting point for building these kinds of relationships. Therefore, organize training sessions and workshops on best safety practices , sharing knowledge with all your colleagues. In addition to raising awareness of important issues, this approach also creates opportunities to interact with different parts of the organization.
External networking
Just like internal networking, external networking is crucial for professional development and building a career in IT. Participating in industry events, such as conferences and technology trade shows , can add value and offer opportunities to connect with leaders, experts, and colleagues from other organizations. In addition to expanding your knowledge of market trends and best practices, you will also build a valuable network of contacts for future collaborations.
Another tip is to actively engage in discussion groups and online communities focused on your area of expertise . Forums, social media groups, and technology communities are great places to share knowledge, discuss solutions, and get feedback. Participating in these conversations will increase your visibility in the sector and establish you as a leader , as well as provide access to up-to-date resources and information.
In addition to connecting with other professionals, also consider establishing partnerships with companies and suppliers that offer technologies complementary to yours. This collaborative process will lead to learning opportunities, the development of new projects, and even strategic partnerships that bring numerous benefits to your organization. The more you expand your external network, the stronger your market position will be and the better your company's continued success will be, bringing new ideas and perspectives.
7. Demonstrate results with metrics
Therefore, data-driven decisions are highly valued in the corporate environment. An effective way to demonstrate their value is to use metrics to show the impact of your actions within the organization. Performance indicators such as incident response time , compliance with regulatory standards, or the number of threats blocked are excellent ways to quantify your results and communicate your true impact to company leadership.
Therefore, presenting these results regularly is essential . Show how the indicators have improved over time and compare the results before and after the implementation of the security solutions. Furthermore, use graphs, tables, and comparisons to clearly illustrate how these initiatives have made a difference to the company, helping to protect its assets and ensure business continuity.
Therefore, you can also include concrete evidence of how your actions contributed to blocking threats and crises . This will not only reinforce the importance of your actions but also demonstrate how you are constantly working to add value to the organization. Translate technical results and practical benefits to receive recognition and respect from other departments .
Regular reports
Regular reports are essential to keep leadership informed about the state of IT operations security. These reports offer a clear and comprehensive view of the activities, results, and impacts of implemented initiatives, allowing management to make informed and strategic decisions. In this regard, prepare competent and well-structured reports to demonstrate the value of actions and justify investments in new technologies and improvements.
In addition to reporting results, it's also important to contextualize the data and demonstrate how your initiatives contribute to the company's objectives . That is, explain how the actions taken directly impacted security, protection, and operational efficiency, using examples to illustrate their benefits. Transparency and clarity are fundamental to ensuring that leadership recognizes the value of your work and reinforces the strategic role of IT within the organization.
Understand the role of flexibility and adaptability
In the IT landscape, change is the norm. Technologies evolve rapidly, and new threats emerge constantly. Therefore, demonstrating flexibility and adaptability is essential for IT professionals to be valued within an organization. Understand and discover how to adapt quickly to new situations and learn new tools to differentiate ordinary professionals from exceptional ones .
Being flexible doesn't just mean adopting new technologies, but also being able to rethink strategies and processes . Furthermore, if a specific security approach doesn't yield the expected results, you should be prepared to reassess and adjust your plan. Flexibility also involves collaboration . Teamwork, including listening to colleagues' suggestions and adapting your strategies to better meet departmental needs, fosters a culture of constant collaboration and learning . This not only improves company results but also solidifies your position as an essential and fully adaptable IT professional .
Participate in IT Governance
IT governance is fundamental to ensuring that the technologies used are aligned with the company's objectives and that risks are managed more effectively. Active participation in IT governance will allow IT professionals to have a broader view of the company's strategies and how the sector can support them. In addition to offering opportunities to influence critical decisions that impact security and operational efficiency, this participation will also put them in the spotlight and demonstrate their interest in the success of the business.
Being part of the governance team means participating in strategic planning meetings , as well as offering insights based on your technical expertise. These meetings will help shape safety policies, ensure the proper use of investments, and suggest practical improvements to achieve better results. This participation will demonstrate commitment to the overall success of the company and reinforce your importance as a team member.
This approach will also allow you to anticipate trends and prepare the company for future changes . This means your company will be able to prepare more intelligently for emerging challenges, adapt to new regulations, and even introduce new technologies, demonstrating that IT is not just technical support, but also an integral part of the organization's strategic planning.
Invest in your company's safety culture
It's important to remember that information security is not solely the responsibility of the IT team ; it should be a concern for all employees and departments within the company. Promoting a security culture means that employees are educated about best practices and also made aware of the importance of protecting the organization's data.
To add value to their role within the company, initiate awareness campaigns that make employees more aware of potential threats, such as social engineering, phishing, and ransomware. Awareness is the first layer of defense against attacks , and the more prepared your employees are, the safer your company will be.
Foster a security culture to reduce incidents and demonstrate your commitment to protecting digital assets. Promoting a security culture also includes creating an environment where employees feel comfortable reporting problems or suspicious behavior . An open communication channel can help prevent incidents before they cause major problems for the organization.
Empowering the IT team
Empowering the IT team is an effective strategy for creating a more productive and innovative work environment. In addition to adding value to your role as a professional, when the team feels more valued and empowered, performance improves and more innovative solutions naturally emerge. As an influential member of the IT team, you can encourage everyone's professional development and create opportunities for each individual to demonstrate their skills and find their role within the company.
Encouraging participation in conferences and workshops , promoting training, and helping your team obtain certifications are effective ways to empower and develop skills. The more skilled your team is, the better the results of their work will be, as well as the implementation of security and technology strategies. This will bring recognition to you and the rest of the IT team within the organization.
This empowerment process also means creating space for the exchange of ideas and innovation . Promoting regular meetings where everyone can share challenges, solutions, and strategies is quite effective. In this way, you will have a collaborative environment where everyone has an active voice, strengthening your team and creating a culture of innovation .
Use a multi-pronged approach to achieve your goals
The seven tips presented here can help IT professionals stand out in the market and gain recognition within their organizations . From understanding business needs to staying up-to-date with trends, implementing these strategies is essential to adding value and demonstrating your role in your work.
It's necessary to put these tips into practice and understand that, to stand out in the market, you need to adopt an assertive strategy . Evaluate how you can improve your visibility, productivity, and communication so that your work is not only recognized but also valued within the company you are part of. It's also necessary to adopt tools and solutions that deliver quality results for your company, demonstrating how your role is fundamental to the success of the business in the medium and long term .
