How do you keep your information systems audit and control skills current?

1 Follow professional bodies

One of the best ways to stay informed and updated on information systems audit and control is to follow the professional bodies that set the standards, guidelines, and certifications for the field. For example, you can join and follow the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA), which offers the Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC) credentials, as well as various resources, publications, events, and communities. You can also follow other organizations such as the Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), and the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

2 Take online courses

Another way to keep your information systems audit and control skills current is to take online courses that cover the latest topics, trends, and challenges in the field. Online courses can help you refresh your knowledge, learn new skills, and earn continuing professional education (CPE) credits. You can find online courses on various platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, edX, and LinkedIn Learning. Some of the courses you can take are Information Systems Auditing, Information Systems Control, Information Security Management, Cybersecurity Risk Management, and Data Privacy and Ethics.

3 Read blogs and podcasts

A third way to keep your information systems audit and control skills current is to read blogs and podcasts that provide insights, opinions, and tips from experts, practitioners, and peers in the field. Blogs and podcasts can help you stay updated on the latest news, developments, and issues in information systems audit and control, as well as learn from the experiences and perspectives of others. You can find blogs and podcasts on various websites such as ISACA Blog, IIA Blog, AuditNet, The Audit Podcast, and Cybersecurity Audit Podcast.

4 Join online communities

A fourth way to keep your information systems audit and control skills current is to join online communities that connect you with other professionals, experts, and learners in the field. Online communities can help you exchange ideas, ask questions, share resources, and network with others who share your interest and passion for information systems audit and control. You can find online communities on various platforms such as ISACA Connect, IIA Global Forums, Reddit, Quora, and LinkedIn.

5 Practice with tools and techniques

A fifth way to keep your information systems audit and control skills current is to practice with the tools and techniques that are used in the field. Practicing with tools and techniques can help you improve your practical skills, test your knowledge, and apply your learning to real-world scenarios. You can practice with tools and techniques such as COBIT, ITIL, COSO, NIST Cybersecurity Framework, GRC software, audit software, data analysis software, and penetration testing tools.

6 Seek feedback and mentoring

A sixth way to keep your information systems audit and control skills current is to seek feedback and mentoring from others who have more experience, knowledge, or expertise in the field. Feedback and mentoring can help you identify your strengths, weaknesses, gaps, and areas for improvement, as well as receive guidance, advice, and support. You can seek feedback and mentoring from your managers, colleagues, mentors, coaches, trainers, or consultants.