Hi all,

So this is my story:

Around 8 Months ago I got a break in security with a junior pen testing job. I was over the moon as security something I just love and found so interested i guess like most of the people on here. I was given 6 month contract and told by end of it I should be able to test web apps on my own.

Anyway it was coming to the end of the 6 months and as the job was away from home I had to give notice on the place I was renting. I asked the boss what was going on as I need to know if i should sign up for another renting agreement or go back home. To my surprise he said they didn't think I was good enough even tho everything they gave me I seem to do a good job of as never had any complains or any signs they were not happy.

So I left the company and went home now I been home for over a month and I just don't know what to do my head telling me I need job for bills but my heart telling me I wont be happy in another job I had a taste of security and I want more.

I applied for more jobs in security thinking the 6 month experience would help me but its not it only seem to be causing me more of an issue. I think companies are seeing it and thinking they got rid of me what they did but I think they got rid me as I need more training and something else was going on that I was not aware of.

So since I didn't have much luck with security jobs I need money ASAP so started to apply for help desk jobs just to get money and also give me some experience in area that I need bit work in. I done a new CV and started to apply but I just don't seem to be getting anywhere and I don't know why I thought most companies would love to have someone like me on their team. I don't know if its my CV or what and I don't know what to do at this point in time I just fill low and really dumb.

Help,Advice,Recommendation

Thanks

I know you feel rejected and down but Sil is right.
This experience should motivate you. This is a great
community of professionals who not only give great advice but also help out their members.
I was laid-off a few years ago and could not find a job for almost a year.I was a little pickey at first but eventually settled for a Help Desk position. The 6 months in that position I was able to network, improve my skills, and continue my degree. I am now in a Sys Admin position looking for something in Security. 
My point is that after you get over the feeling of rejection I believe you will have the courage and motivation to drive on and this community will help you. 
Not sure where you are located but there are plenty of Security related positions in the DoD. Let me know how I can help out?

Another thing to keep in mind is that 1 month is not that long to be looking for a job. I know its hard to be patient when you're looking, especially while unemployed.

Keep you head up...these situations typically work themselves out with time.

Good luck!

Keep your head up and keep applying.  Take a job outside of security if you have to; it doesn't mean giving up on security.  Take any job you have to to pay the bills.

Be sure to tailor your resume for different jobs.  Don't submit your security resume for a help desk job.  Emphasize the skills that are right for the job you're applying for. 

The economy sucks.  Lots of people are out of work and many of them have been out for six months or longer.  You'll get back in the game and hopefully it will be soon, but try to keep your spirits up even if it takes a while. 

Good luck.

If you aren't already using LinkedIn, start doing so 

agreed, but there are some exceptions to this rule, i managed to do fine without linkedin, facebook and all those other social media thingies.

perhaps spicing your resume would be an option, mention what you do in your free time (i for example am active in the local 2600 chapter, volunteer at several conferences and give lectures at schools and hackerspaces, i even paid for some of my certificates.) now not all of these things might be work related, but sure show HR how motivated and active you are in the security community...

Also check the GIAC listings:

http://www.giac.org/certified-professionals/job-listings

There might also be issues with your resume that you're not recognizing.  On other forums, some people post their (sanitized) CV for others to critique.

Thanks I do used LinkedIn and twitter as well run my own website. The problem I find is lot testing companies in the UK as so small lots of recruiters post about the same job and after speaking to them find out I have already applied or know someone who works for the company. It fills a lot like you need some luck at the moment and its just not happening for me.