Editor’s note:The ISACA Now blog is looking ahead to 2024 with to-do lists from ISACA experts for professionals working in IT audit, risk management, information security, privacy and IT governance. Today, Veronica Rose shares her 2024 to-do list for IT auditors. See more audit resources from ISACA here.
The IT industry is ever-evolving, meaning that IT auditors must evolve alongside constant developments in order to be successful. Standards must be continuously examined as new technologies emerge, and auditors must consequently adapt to their changing field.
As a new year approaches, it is the perfect time for auditors to evaluate their current skills, roles and knowledge to set goals to focus on in 2024. Here are five objectives for audit professionals to add to their 2024 to-do list:
1. Upskill
Acquire knowledge in auditing emerging technologies, research changes in IT auditing practices, invest in acquiring a CISA certification, attend IT audit training and evolve. Show the ability to apply fresh thinking to existing best practices to tackle emerging issues, especially when making audit recommendations to address new realities. If certified, remember to maintain your certification by reporting your CPE hours.
2. Join a professional community or renew your professional membership
There are many benefits of belonging to a professional body, including networking, the ability to connect with mentors, leadership opportunities and more. It is important to ensure you are keeping up with your membership, as well, to enjoy the most benefits.
3. Seek coaching and mentorship
This presents an opportunity for you to give back to the profession by mentoring a new professional. Seeking mentorship and coaching can enable you to grow in your career through new learning experiences and networking opportunities.
4. Take care of yourself
Because this is a highly demanding job, mental wellness is key. Create spare time to exercise, learn to delegate tasks, plan your day, stay organized, be authentic with your stakeholders, adopt emotional intelligence traits and have fun.
5. Embrace the qualities of a trusted information systems auditor
Becoming certified, gaining high-level technical knowledge, sharpening analytical skills and remaining ever-curious are just a few of the essential qualities of a trusted and successful information systems auditor.
So, when it comes to the future of your career in IT audit, don’t just prepare for it—change it. Take charge of your future by honing your current skills, adapting to new challenges and taking care of your mental and physical health to the best of your abilities. Participating in a professional community, mentoring and being mentored, and embodying the optimal qualities of a trusted auditor are all steps forward on the path to success in the new year.
Be the best information system auditor you can be.