How To Talk To Auditors

Like any other interaction at work, a professional and trusting relationship is a needed for a successful collaboration.

When interacting with the auditors in a professional manner, you project to audit teams that its function is respected and supported.

Expect professional interaction from the audit team and push back whenever there is an exception to this practice.

To contribute to a successful and accurate audit report, be receptive to auditor observations and the audit team’s recommendations.

Be firm when discussing anything they see as incorrect, in order to ensure there are no misunderstandings.

Keep in mind that you, and not the auditors, are responsible for defining and implementing solutions to issues found in the audit. Everyone will benefit from a cooperative, collaborative audit process that respects the independence and discretion of all participants.

Of course, auditors should listen to process management. And for its part, process management should encourage staff to be open and honest with auditors.