Are you interested in pursuing a career in threat management or working as a corporate intelligence analyst? If so, it’s important to understand what hiring managers are looking for in a candidate, and how you can stand out from the competition.
Hiring managers seeking intelligence analyst and threat management are typically looking for candidates with the skills and experience necessary to effectively gather and analyze information, identify potential risks or threats to the organization, and communicate findings and recommendations to stakeholders. Some specific qualities and skills that hiring managers look for include:
- Research skills: Intelligence analysts and threat management professionals must be able to gather and analyze information from a variety of sources, including public records, social media, and other online platforms. Ideal candidates have strong research skills and the ability to use analytical tools and techniques to identify patterns and trends in data.
- Attention to detail: Corporate intelligence professionals must be able to pay close attention to details and identify patterns and trends in the data they analyze. Strong candidates are able to identify subtle patterns and trends that may indicate potential risks or threats to the organization.
- Critical thinking: Intelligence and threat management professionals must think critically and analyze complex information, in order to identify potential risks or threats to the organization. The ability to think creatively and come up with innovative solutions to complex problems is an attractive attribute for hiring managers.
- Communication skills (verbal and written): Effective communication is essential for intelligence and threat management professionals, who frequently present their findings and recommendations to a variety of audiences, including senior management, employees, and other stakeholders. Strong communication skills including the ability to convey complex information clearly and concisely, and being able to write thoughtful, digestible and succinct reports is a critical skill for analysts.
- Discretion: Intelligence and threat management professionals often work with sensitive or confidential information. It is important to maintain trust and confidentiality, and to handle sensitive information tactfully. Successful candidates possess a high level of discretion and handle sensitive information with care.
When applying for threat management and intelligence analyst jobs, it can also be helpful to have credentials and accolades that demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field. Some relevant items to include on your resume and application might include:
- Memberships and certifications: Being a member and obtaining certifications from professional organizations like the Association of Threat Assessment Professionals (ATAP), Association of Risk Intelligence Professionals (AIRIP), and ASIS International can demonstrate your commitment to your career and your willingness to invest in your professional development. Many hiring managers view certifications and memberships in professional organizations as a positive indicator of a candidate’s dedication to their field and their desire to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and best practices.
- Higher education: Many employers prefer to hire candidates with a college degree, particularly in a field related to intelligence or threat management, such as psychology, criminal justice, or international/public relations. Although not always a requirement, having an advanced degree can highlight your commitment to your career and your willingness to invest in your education.
- Relevant work experience: Prior work experience in a related field, such as law enforcement, investigations, corporate intelligence, or data analysis, can be a valuable asset when applying for a threat management or intelligence analyst position. Including examples of your relevant work experience on your resume highlights your knowledge and skills in the field.
- Professional development courses: Participating in professional development courses or training programs can help express your commitment to your career and your willingness to invest in your professional growth. Including examples of your professional development activities on your resume can showcase additional knowledge and skills to a potential employer.
In addition to these qualities, it’s important to tailor your resume and application to the specific needs of the organization and position you are applying for. Be sure to highlight your skills and experience that are most relevant to the role. Some organizations may also require you to submit a writing sample to review and will use that to assess your analytical and writing ability.
By highlighting these and other relevant skills and qualities on your application, you can increase your chances of standing out as a qualified candidate when applying for an intelligence or threat management position.
If you’re interested in a career in threat management, or intelligence, please visit Concentric’s website for embedded opportunities.
Author: Rith Kenmai, Director of Embedded Services with Concentric
