Employers

Personal privacy advisors are often self-employed, but some work for small consulting firms that provide advice on digital privacy to clients. Advisors also work in corporate settings, although these professionals typically need a higher level of education and certification (at some employers).

Starting Out

Many personal privacy advisors start out by offering free advice to their friends and family about data security and online privacy. After they develop a strong reputation—and continue to expand their knowledge through formal education—they can begin charging for their services. Additionally, an aspiring advisor might first work for a data security or online reputation firm to gain experience in these areas before starting their own consulting firms.

Personal privacy advisors who are self-employed advance by attracting more clients—which translates into more earnings. Some advisors become well-known for writing books, hosting blogs, or serving as media experts regarding data security and online privacy.

With additional education, advisors can become information security analysts, who protect an organization’s computer systems and networks from unauthorized intrusion by cyberattacks, or online reputation managers, who monitor social media sites to identify negative content that is posted about their clients.

Work in entry-level positions at a data security firm or an online reputation management company to obtain experience and build your skills and networking contacts.

To learn more about the field, read:

• Infosecurity Magazine: http://www.infosecurity-magazine.com
• ISSA Journal: https://www.members.issa.org/page/ISSAJournal
• International Journal of Information Security: https://www.springer.com/journal/10207
• Computerworld: http://www.computerworld.com

Become active in your school’s computer club or local technology groups.