In the often sterile world of auditing, where spreadsheets reign supreme and compliance checklists dictate the day, it’s easy to fall into the trap of viewing the work as purely transactional. We delve into financial statements, dissect internal controls and deliver our findings, often losing sight of the human element that underpins every organisation.
These core responsibilities – meticulous reviews, identification of control deficiencies, and actionable recommendations – are undoubtedly essential. But focusing solely on them risks overlooking a critical component of our broader role: the cultivation of meaningful professional relationships.
Individuals are the human capital that drives the enterprise forward
Nurture connections
Each audit engagement presents a unique window into an organisation’s inner workings, allowing interactions with professionals spanning diverse levels and functional areas. These individuals are not simply process owners or risk custodians; they are colleagues, experts in their own domains and potential future collaborators. They represent the human capital that drives the enterprise forward.
An auditor’s approach to these interactions, therefore, should transcend the mere exchange of documents and the sterile dissection of control weaknesses. Instead, we must actively strive to foster authentic connections, recognising the intrinsic value of human interaction and the often unpredictable nature of professional journeys.
Building connections isn’t merely a pleasant add-on to the audit process; it’s an integral investment in our own professional development and the broader health of the organisations we serve. Strong professional relationships unlock unexpected opportunities, expanding horizons and facilitating career advancement in ways that a single, well-executed audit report rarely can.
When facing a challenging situation, an auditor with a strong professional network can draw on collective wisdom, gaining valuable insights and perspectives. In a rapidly evolving professional landscape, this ability to tap into a diverse network is invaluable for staying abreast of best practices and emerging trends.
Power of understanding
Consider the auditor who takes the time to genuinely understand the challenges faced by a department head rather than simply pointing out procedural shortcomings. This empathy builds trust, fostering open communication and paving the way for more effective implementation of recommended improvements.
A reputation built on integrity, empathy and a collaborative spirit will consistently outweigh the impact of any audit report alone, regardless of its findings. In the long run, the ability to build consensus, foster trust and navigate complex organisational dynamics is far more valuable than the ability to simply identify and report on discrepancies. The auditor who is known for being fair, understanding and solution-oriented is more likely to be respected, and ultimately, more effective in driving positive change.
Human connections can transform the auditor role into a catalyst for change
Of course, independence and objectivity must be maintained throughout our audits, but we should also proactively prioritise relationship building, approaching each interaction as fellow professionals and, fundamentally, as fellow human beings. This means actively listening, asking thoughtful questions and demonstrating a genuine interest in the perspectives of those we interact with. It means treating everyone with respect, regardless of their position or role. And it means striving to find common ground, building rapport and fostering a sense of shared purpose.
It is the human connections that can transform the auditor role from a purely technical function into a catalyst for positive change, driving not just compliance but also collaboration, innovation and sustainable growth. By focusing on relationships as well as results, we can unlock audit’s full potential to contribute to the success of organisations and the individuals who drive them.
