The Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification is a professional credential awarded by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA) that validates IT security managers' ability to address data breaches and lead, plan, and manage enterprise information security.

Achieving the CISM certification demonstrates not only proficiency in the field of information security but also advanced skills and knowledge in integrating security into business objectives. While earning the CISM certification requires some time and effort, it can be an effective path to salary and career advancement, especially for those seeking leadership positions in cybersecurity.

According to ISACA, the global association that offers the CISM certification, over 100,000 professionals worldwide have earned the certification since its launch in 2002. Currently, the CISM is one of the most sought-after certifications in the workplace.

1. Is the CISM certification worth it?

With a CISM certification, you gain recognition in your field. The CISM certification is a prestigious accreditation of knowledge and skills in information security management. Professionals with the CISM certification are often considered experts in their field.

The CISM certification can serve as a catalyst for career advancement, helping professionals achieve higher positions and greater responsibilities in information security management. Secondly, preparing for the CISM exam provides an opportunity to learn and master information security management best practices, helping to enhance one's professional capabilities. Most importantly, the CISM certification can boost your salary. Studies show that IT professionals with professional certifications like the CISM often earn higher salaries than those without.

Case Study: Eva – From Stay-at-Home Mom to Freelance Information Security Manager

Eva, 36, a former IT systems operations engineer, quit her job several years ago to raise her children full-time. As her children grew older and financial pressures mounted, she wanted to return to the workforce, but didn't want to sacrifice her family responsibilities.

A friend introduced her to the long-term career prospects in information security and the widespread recognition of the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification. To hone her skills, Eva established a rigorous study schedule: two hours each morning, during her lunch break, and after her children went to bed. Using SPOTO's question bank, training videos, and practice tests, she passed the CISM exam in just six months.

Soon after, Eva began promoting her services on LinkedIn and local tech forums. Through her network, she secured small, remote projects such as security assessments, account access reviews, and compliance consulting for startups and small and medium-sized businesses lacking in-house security staff. She now averages one to two projects per month, earning an additional $4,000 to $8,000 in income.

2. How to get CISM certified?

First, prepare for the exam. SPOTO offers a variety of CISM exam preparation resources, including group training, self-paced training, and learning resources in multiple languages to help you prepare for the CISM certification exam. We also have an online certification preparation community where you can connect with peers and seek guidance on the CISM exam. Choose the resources that fit your schedule and study needs.

Second, you need to prepare to schedule your exam. You must be CISM eligible to schedule and take the exam. Eligibility is effective upon registering for the CISM exam and is valid for 12 months. You must register and pay for the CISM exam before you can schedule and take the exam.

Finally, taking and passing the CISM certification exam is only the first step to becoming certified. To earn CISM certification, individuals must first meet the following requirements: pass the certification exam; pay the $50 application processing fee; submit an application to verify experience requirements; adhere to the Code of Ethics; and comply with the Continuing Professional Education Policy.

3. Salary of a CISM Certified Professional

CISM has become one of the most highly regarded certifications in the information security field, and its holders command substantial salaries. Career opportunities for security managers are vast, and a CISM certification can significantly boost their salaries.

• Average Salaries by Position Information Security Manager: $120,000 to $150,000 per year. C
• hief Information Security Officer (CISO): $150,000 to $250,000 per year.
• IT Audit Manager: $110,000 to $140,000 per year.
• Risk Manager: $100,000 to $130,000 per year.

4. Benefits of the CISM Certification

Industry Recognition: The CISM is widely recognized worldwide and is widely accepted as the benchmark certification for information security management. It helps enhance overall skills and knowledge in the information security field, enabling certification holders to stand out in today's competitive world.

• Career Development: The CISM offers opportunities for higher-level positions, such as IT Manager, Security Auditor, Communications Systems Analyst, or CIS0. It also plays a vital role for professionals aspiring to hold key positions within an organization.
• Skill Enhancement: This certification covers key areas including risk management, governance, incident response, and security program development. Due to its broad scope, this coverage also enables certified professionals to address diverse security issues.
• Networking Opportunities: ISACA membership provides access to others and relevant resources in the field. This community provides a platform for the exchange of ideas, development, and other professional interests.

Case Study 2: A Full-Time Engineer's Cybersecurity Side Hustle

David worked full-time as an automation engineer for a manufacturing company. While his main job was stable, he had always been passionate about cybersecurity and wanted to expand his career options while earning extra income. After researching industry-recognized certifications, he decided to pursue the Certified Information Security Manager (CISM) certification and develop a side hustle in information security consulting. David spent 1.5 to 2 hours each evening studying, using SPOTO's CISM question bank, video courses, and practice tests. In six months, he mastered topics such as security governance, risk management, incident response, and program development. He successfully passed the CISM exam, earning this highly respected certification in IT security.

With his certification and a solid foundation of knowledge, David began providing remote security consulting services to small businesses, including security policy development, risk assessments, and incident response planning. Through a friend's recommendation, he landed a part-time contract with a local financial services company, helping them improve their compliance and strengthen their security posture.

His work only required a few hours one evening and weekends. David now earns an extra $1,500 per month from his cybersecurity side hustle. This extra income not only helps with family expenses, but also lays the foundation for his future transition into a full-time information security management role. His next goal: to further expand his expertise by obtaining the CISSP certification.