What CISM Certification Is And What You Can Do With It

Information security has been regarded as increasingly important with the advent of technology and the introduction of more high-tech products. With more problems arising from data breaches or privacy concerns, there is a demand for more information security managers. The rise in demand has also increased the number of places offering CISM Certification, a.k.a Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). This guide will give an overview of the CISM Certification and the possible career paths associated with it. 

What Is the CISM Certification?

The CISM certification works to teach candidates the relevant skills needed to be an Information Security Manager. ISACA is a global association that provides IT professionals with knowledge, credentials, training, and community in audit, governance, risk, and privacy. This certification is structured to fit the needs of candidates who would like to venture into the managerial aspect of the IT industry without having to really master each and every concept of the industry. For managerial roles, CISM certified professionals are expected to oversee roles such as coming up with security practices. Once the candidate has completed the course, he/she will be able to understand the deeper workings of the IT industry. Those interested in getting a cism certification can consider Comat, which offers training courses in information security. 

Who is the CISM Most Suited For?

Candidates of the CISM should possess the desire to learn more about the managerial duties of the IT industries. Companies in the IT industries are looking for individuals who are able to keep in line with the demands of the work. For example, the candidate will have to make sure that effective information policies are made and carried out. In addition, he/she will need to manage the risks and take advantage of resources in order to gain the trust of the people and build a reputation. All in all, candidates will need to make important decisions that won’t compromise the security of the organization as well as learning how to carry out effective risk management. Certified CISM holders will then be qualified to take on managerial roles to oversee areas and enforce rules in the case of non-compliance. 

What Experience Do You Need?

To be eligible for the CISM certifications, candidates need to ensure that they satisfy these two criteria: 

1. Candidates will need to ensure that they have taken the 200-question examination and have secured at least a pass grade. This will show that candidates have the ability to navigate computer networks and basic computer security. This will also be useful in gauging the skill sets of candidates. 
2. Candidates will need to prove completion of at least 5 years of previous work experience in the information security-related careers and at least 3 years as a security manager in any ¾ of the listed areas such as Risk Management and Compliance, Information Security Incident Management, Information Security Governance, and Information Security Program Development and Management. Do note that eligibility of candidates is applied only to those who fall within 10 years of the application or 5 years of the exam. 

Are Other Security Certifications Comparable to CISM?

There are a couple of other certifications that can be taken. These certifications will also cover the same type of skills that CISM covers. They are: 

      1.CISSP-Certified Information Systems Security Professional

The CISSP certification is widely sought after in areas of information security and has become desirable to professionals who have the intention to explore managerial positions as information security personnel.

     2.CISA-Certified Information Systems Auditor

CISA-accredited individuals are headhunted by countless organizations due to their knowledge in audit experiences and their ability to enforce organizations to comply with industry regulations. However, unlike the CISSP and CISM, this certificate is not considered a full IT certification.

While all three certifications are comparable, the ultimate choice depends on the candidate and his/her choice on which fits their personal preference best. Over the past few years, there has been a boost in demand for workers in the cybersecurity sector. This promises good future prospects. 

Is the CISM Worth the Effort?

It is undeniable that getting CISM accredited is a long and relatively painful process, but having a CISM certification also opens the candidate up to multiple career opportunities such as a Chief Information Officer, Information Security Manager, and an Information Risk Compliance Specialist.

     1.Information Security Manager 

The ISM is required to attain senior management commitment. These roles include getting budgets, evaluating security metrics, executing strategic alignment, etc.

    2.Chief Information Officer 

Businesses all around the world face problems when dealing with strict industry-specific regulations as well as adapting to new environments. As such, CISM Certification gives candidates the practice of navigating through complex issues faced in the IT industry in order to equip them with the necessary skills to positively impact companies. 

    3.Information Risk Compliance Specialist

In most companies, the CISM will be tasked to oversee the general running of the company. Liaising with other business units, the CISM helps ensure that companies adhere to industry regulations. 

What Is the Best Way to Train for the CISM?

There are three main ways that potential candidates can prepare for their CISM certification. Depending on each individual’s preferences, they can consider choosing one of the three approaches. 

     1.Boot camps  

Led by industry professionals, boot camps are great as they provide candidates a good structure, which can help enforce skills and learning objectives. 

    2.Online Training  

While this offers candidates more flexibility in their learning style, it also allows the candidate to follow some sort of structured lessons. This would be considered a middle ground between Bootcamp and Self-Studying and gives candidates a good mix of both. 

    3.Self-Study  

This mode of study requires a lot of self-discipline. 

Conclusion

All in all, CISM certification can be incredibly useful when it comes to understanding how businesses work. Stepping foot into managerial roles can be rather daunting and CISM certification can ensure that you’re well prepared to step into these roles. This credential is highly sought after and is well recognized by companies all over the world.