Introduction

After passing the PNPT, I wanted to take the next step by going through the PCRP program and certification from TCM Security. NOTE: You need to pass the PNPT as a requirement to take the PCRP program. One of my main goals for taking this course was to get good at doing job interviews for penetration testing roles as well as increase my likelihood of getting into the Synack Red Team program. Passing the PNPT and PCRP together will grant a better onboarding experience for those interested in the platform.

For information on the PCRP program, check it out here: https://certifications.tcm-sec.com/

I also wanted to take advantage of the career services and support from TCM to help answer several questions on navigating job placement. One of the best things about the programs was the fact that I could set up a meeting with an actual person to help me acquire my preferred role and also evaluate my resume to help boost my chances.

PCRP Course and Instructor Support

Upon purchase of the program, I was able to get access to the course called “Soft Skills for the Job Market (PCRP Edition)”. The video content is around 5 hours but they cover several aspects such as communication, resume writing, how to apply for jobs, interviewing and setting up your own portfolio website.

What helped me the most was the advice on resume writing. I learned about some pitfalls that I’ve unfortunately done in the past, and was able to update my resume accordingly. In addition, I was able to submit my current resume for evaluation. A few days later, I was sent back my resume with the recommended changes.

I also setup a schedule with an instructor that gave me advice on how to conduct interviews, also evaluate where I wanted to be in the industry in terms of my role. He was very knowledgeable and very open to all my questions that I had.

Resume Submission and PCRP Interview

After updating my resume based on my instructors’ feedback. I submitted my application to the designated PCRP site for the preferred role as a penetration tester. I then received an invitation for an interview, which had a few dates and times to choose from.

Upon attending my interview, I had a panel of evaluators who asked me several technical and soft skills questions. If you completed the PNPT program and went through the coursework thoroughly, you will easily ace the technical questions. For soft skills, I just banked on my previous experience in tech and my current role in cybersecurity. 

A few hours later, I received my PCRP certification. Just a note on this, you can still FAIL your PCRP if you don’t come prepared for the interview. It’s best to treat this like a real job application if you want to pass and get certified. 

I also received notes and feedback from my interview to help me improve on my next job interview. 

PCRP Certification Benefits and Synack Red Team Pathway

After receiving my certification and publicly verifiable link, I applied to the Synack Red Team program. I cover the benefits of acquiring both the PNPT and PCRP in my review of the PNPT here. By obtaining both the PNPT and PCRP you can get an expedited onboarding experience at Synack Red team through their Pathways program. More information here: https://www.synack.com/red-team/pathways/

Getting the PNPT and PCRP will grant the following advantages when applying:

• Resume bypass
• Technical review bypass for web and network skills on the HTB platform

As I’ve said previously, if you are looking for your first job in offensive security, this could potentially be a good start. Depending on your organization’s policy you could also use this as supplemental income by securing assets through the Synack Red Team program.

Conclusion

I recommend taking the PCRP program after passing the PNPT program. Some of the best reasons I’d recommend it is for the resume evaluation and the interview feedback that will help you prepare for your next role. You will also get instructors who will answer all your career related questions. This was very beneficial for me as job hunting is quite stressful especially when you are trying to land a new role. The advice I got from the instructors were immediately applicable to my next round of interviews. 

If you want to go through a comprehensive career services program that will help you prepare for your first or next role as a penetration tester, I highly recommend going through the PCRP program. If you are interested, check it out here: https://certifications.tcm-sec.com/

– Z333RO