The privacy landscape has undergone a drastic change in the past three years. New privacy regulations like the General Data Protection Regulation have changed the way companies handle individual’s personal data in addition to creating a demand for privacy professionals.

If you are interested in the privacy field, there are a number of ways to enter the privacy profession. The list below is by no means an exhaustive compilation of the ways of joining the profession.

Join Privacy Professional Associations

International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)

Why you should join the IAPP:

• You can register for IAPP privacy training programs.

• You can also register for the IAPP privacy certification exams.

• More importantly, you can attend the KnowledgeNet Chapter Meetings.

• The IAPP has opportunities for you to actively participate in the organization from chairing KnowledgeNet Chapter meetings to creating privacy training programs.

Women in Security and Privacy (WISP)

Why you should join WISP:

• WISP provides networking, leadership and mentorship opportunities. Check out the WISP job board for privacy opportunities.

• This year, WISP in partnership with the IAPP, launched a scholarship program for WISP members to expand their data protection knowledge and skills.

College and Law School Privacy Programs

If you are considering college or law school, the IAPP has compiled a list of colleges and law schools worldwide that offer privacy programs with the required prerequisites. Students have the option of choosing distance learning, part-time study, and internships or externships.

Pass the IAPP Privacy Certification Exams (CIPP, CIPM, and CIPT)

The IAPP offers the following Privacy certifications:

• Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP)

• Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)

• Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT)

The certifications are recognized worldwide and you can use them to differentiate yourself from other professionals. Information on how to register for the IAPP Privacy certification exams can be found on the IAPP website.

Network

Due to the pandemic, we can no longer network in person. However, this does not mean that you cannot network online. Leverage your social connections, interests, or groups to reach out to privacy professionals on LinkedIn and Twitter. This article on Muse has tips on how to network on Twitter and LinkedIn.

Attend online privacy conferences or events and connect with other privacy professionals or speakers. If the conference provides a list of registrations or speakers, identify who you want to meet. If they are on LinkedIn, consider reaching out to them in advance. However, if that is not an option, usually the virtual conferences have a networking session and you can sure those sessions to get the contact information to follow-up with people you’re interested in.

Submit Job Applications for Privacy Roles

The best platform for job-hunting online is LinkedIn. If you are looking for a privacy role on LinkedIn, make sure to create a profile. Don’t forget to market your skills and privacy experience. In addition, enable the OpenToWork feature so that recruiters can find you. This Business Insider article has more tips on how to use LinkedIn to find a job.