Preparing to be a SANS Instructor

Build your network

• If you are not already a member of an information security association, such as ISSA, ISACA or HTCIA or a local user group, attend a local chapter meeting in your area and get to know the members. You'll learn a lot about what's happening in the industry and in your area.
• Make sure your LinkedIn profile is current. If you don't have a LinkedIn profile, create one. LinkedIn is the first place people go to learn more about you so keep it updated and post information about your course, talks or other community involvement on your page. LinkedIn also has a number of information security related groups you can join.
• Participate in the GIAC Advisory Board or information security related blogs.
• Take on a speaking engagement with an association, user's group or community event where your skills are a good match. Cyber security is a topic people are very interested in and want to learn more.
• Join Twitter and follow SANS and other Mentors and instructors. It's very interesting to see what these guys are up to.

Polish up your speaking skills

While you don't have to be a professional speaker to start, you will need to be comfortable talking to people and sharing your stories and experiences related to the course you are leading. If public speaking is not part of your role, here are a few things you can do to boost your confidence level:

• Join a local Toastmaster's Club.
• Seek opportunities in the community where you can do a short talk or presentation such as Chamber of Commerce meetings, PTA and school related functions or clubs such as Rotary or Elks Lodge.
• Prepare a presentation and ask your colleagues/friends to listen and give you constructive feedback.