In order to master audit is necessary to learn certain skills. Audit is not only to review or check numbers; its beyond that. Its knowing that you are a service area and that your customers are in the other areas within a company. Your work must give value added to a companybut how?

One of the most common mistakes auditors make is to work very hard during the audit, and after the observations have been validated, they think that the hardest work has been done. Theyre wrong. Another important part begins when the report must be written and presented to the upper management. In my experience, one of the things that fails the most is how to write a concise, accurate and objective report supported with evidence. The auditors may know everything theyve identified by memory, but its useless if they cant communicate it to the CEO or the Board of Directors. How can changes be made if the management cant understand the importance of an observation? People understand with reasons, not with imposition.

It's like implementing key performance indicators (KPI); if the person doesnt understand why a metric needs to be used, they wont use it. An internal auditor is an internal advisor for the company, and for that, communication skills are needed. You cant impose what you think just because the law, standards, or regulations dictate that Its about explaining to people the why. Ive seen faces change when they understand how and why their work affects other processes and, therefore, people. Its amazing what an explained flowchart and risk map can do in a company.

A good auditor is the one who has the skill to teach and guide others not only to comply with the law, but to improve processes and make better decisions, hence a better company. A good auditor is the one who can change other employees perspectives; influence them about the value that audit has for them and the company.

Because its simple: if a company improves, then there are resources for everyone. This also contributes to employees having a sense of belonging to the company and thus being the best gatekeepers. A win-win for everyone! In my experience, internal audit isnt the second line of defense Its the line of defense.

So, if you want to master audit, youve a great opportunity at the 10^th Annual Internal Audit Forum in Rome.

Also, check out the upcoming masterclasses for the Finance Industry.

By Mónica Ramírez Chimal, International Speaker & Trainer, Writer, Consultant-Partner at Asserto RSC