"By effectively communicating the value of their work to stakeholders and the local community, auditors become an essential asset in their organizations, fostering an environment in which internal audit is viewed as indispensable to organizations for generations to come." "As the general public becomes more familiar with what internal auditors do, the number of those who consider it a viable career option rises, which, in turn, fuels the profession, now and in the future," said Anderson. Kathy Anderson, National Director of North American Advocacy at The Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA), agrees that familiarity and changing perception of the profession is key to success. It is up to us to bolster the perception of internal audit, promote the importance of what we do, and ensure the future of our profession. The status quo will not do us any favors. I came across a recent study that found that simply being around auditors can change peoples' perceptions of what we do. How can an auditor strengthen the reputation and secure the future of the profession? Turning internal audit perceptions around In my experience, when I introduce myself as an auditor at a party, it seems to create more confusion and polite nods than lively conversations. Let's face facts: audit is not the most exciting topic to people outside the industry, either. There is also a serious shortage of professors ready to teach the next generation of internal auditors. Many professionals are delaying retirement. Not only has internal audit technology dramatically changed the way work is done, the workforce itself is different. Compared to 10 or 15 years ago, it is a night-and-day change. Chances are it is a wildly different place than it was five years ago.