Auditing Success – The Qualities of a Good Auditor

Being an auditor demands know-how, knowledge, attention to detail, and a go-getter attitude to see the task done. There are some additional qualities that propel auditors to excellence.

Here’s how to rise to the top in the auditing world.

Communication Skills

Say “auditor” and the first image is often someone who is an introvert and perhaps an emotionally distant professional. That’s an unfortunate stereotype and that could be further from the truth for a successful auditor.

An auditor must analyze, study and determine a company’s financial situation thoroughly. To do this, he or she needs cooperation. This is why talented auditors are personable individuals who can build trusting relationships with the people around them. They are firm when it comes to obtaining required information, but avoid being condescending or harsh. A friendly, helpful attitude brings down barriers and makes people more likely to assist, which leads to a more accurate audit.

Goal-oriented & Unbiased

Talented auditors never lose sight of the end game. While people skills and approachability are essential, it’s also critical to keep the goal of a proper audit in mind. The decisions that come from the information obtained through the audit process will impact many facets of a company’s business.

Additionally, auditors must not have a bias toward a certain outcome from their findings. One of the most valuable aspects for a business is being able to rely on neutral and factual information and reporting from an audit.

Observant

Like veteran police officers, talented auditors develop acute observation skills that allow them to discern patterns and inconsistencies in data as well as people. Open-minded and able to interpret cues that others miss, the best auditors are great listeners. They may also be masters of the uncomfortable silence. Such silences are frequently filled with relevant information.

By allowing others to feel at ease and talk freely, auditors can uncover important information and details. But this is nothing without the listening and observation skills to spot those details and use them to produce a deeper and more accurate audit.

Flexible

Auditors are more than highly observant bookkeepers. They tend to fulfill a greater role within their organizations. Increasingly, they are asked to perform more unexpected tasks, such as meeting with clients, advising and helping to formulate corporate policy, and even evaluate employees. Being able to move from one role to another is a must-have quality for today’s successful auditor.

Well Informed

If you are an auditor, you need to know your stuff. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to be an expert in the domain you are auditing, but you will need to learn all relevant procedures and applicable state or federal laws.

Not only that, but you also need to be able to communicate this knowledge to employers and fellow employees. If you can do this in a simple, clear and uncomplicated way, you are likely to be highly prized for your ability to communicate. A great auditor is not only aware of current practices, but is ahead of the curve when it comes to developments in their field.

Ethical

Auditing and honesty go hand in hand. A dishonest auditor will have a very short career. An honest auditor owns up to mistakes. We are all human and mistakes happen.

When a mistake occurs, a professional auditor will report it at once. The potential loss of trust and fallout that occurs when an accounting error is discovered cannot be understated. This is especially the case if the auditor tried to mitigate the problem without telling anyone or, worse, attempting to hide or ignore the error.

As an auditor, your best approach is to be ethical at all times. No matter the circumstances, don’t attempt to blur lines when it comes to trust.

Look the Part

Favor a clean and professional dress code over bold fashion statements. While the auditing profession has changed, making a great first impression hasn’t changed all that much. When it comes to using your appearance to appear reliable, trustworthy and conscientious, professional dress speaks volumes in seconds.

Auditing has become more complex. The demands on auditors have increased as well. This means auditors need to be more flexible than ever. If you can see past old-fashioned stereotypes about auditing and master an engaging, helpful and dynamic approach, you will have a fulfilling and successful career.

If you’re an auditor interested in a career change, then reach out to me. At Concero, we use our connections to help you use your skills and talents in an environment that is right for you.