Lessons from the Field
By: Ramona Govender
I have an amazing content writer, who always puts together great articles for me!!
I believe we have all read several great articles on topics such as ‘Debunking the Myths Around Internal Audit,’ ‘The Strategic Benefits of Internal Audit,’ and ‘Common Misconceptions About Internal Audit,’ to name a few. Since this month is Internal Audit Month, I thought I would share some of my personal experiences as an internal auditor.
Some careers shape your résumé. Others shape your character.
For me, internal auditing in the private sector has done both. It’s been a journey that has challenged my thinking, strengthened my resolve, and taught me the true value of humility, empathy, and human connection.
Behind every audit finding is a person trying their best, often under immense pressure. And behind every recommendation, there’s an opportunity not just to improve processes, but to uplift people.
Looking back, what lingers in my memory is not the technical work —it’s the conversations, the hard lessons, the moments of quiet gratitude, and the shared desire to do better. These are some of the experiences that have defined my path.
- There are the candid comments made by audit clients, and the challenging conversations that tested and strengthened my resilience and ability to navigate complex situations with tact and professionalism.
- Then there’s the camaraderie of being part of a team, and the moments when clients expressed gratitude for the value added through the audit process.
- And of course, there are the regrets – those moments that in hindsight, I wish I had handled with more tact, wisdom, empathy, and patience.
- I’ve seen people; former colleagues of mine resign after the audit report was circulated for comment. The unfortunate consequence of an audit is more work for the client staff who will be responsible for resolving the findings, which can sometimes be the last straw for someone who is already snowed under with work.
- I’ve seen business unit managers lose their jobs over repeat audit findings. There is one particular manager who stands out for me, a wonderful person who unfortunately had no prior practical experience running a workshop/service department. As a result, open job cards just piled up, and what was in the system just did not match the reality. After a few serious repeat audit findings, this former colleague was performance managed out of the system.
- The biggest regret that I have is not sticking around after the audit to help the audit client by offering training or providing them with resources that could have assisted them in putting processes in place which would have addressed some of the issues that were identified during the audit.
Reflecting on these experiences, I’ve identified several key practices that can significantly enhance the effectiveness and impact of internal audits:
- Be an active listener when you engage with an audit client. Why? You are showing your audit client that you value what they are saying, they feel heard, and will be more comfortable sharing information. You also gain valuable insight and understanding which will help you provide practical recommendations to your client, rather than generic advice that may not address their specific needs.
- Be supportive after the audit by offering training (if allowed by your audit charter), or by sharing common workplace resources such as templates or procedures that may assist in resolving audit findings. Why? Internal audits are not just about identifying and reporting on findings. Internal auditors are meant to add value and foster growth and improvements.
- Do not be a “know-it-all.” Why? Over and above this character trait, being extremely annoying for others, you lose the opportunity to learn and grow. If you learn something new from your client, it will not cost you anything to express gratitude for the knowledge gained.
- Be humble. Why? This may sound counter-intuitive, after all, auditors are supposed to be experts in the subject matter that they are auditing. People who show humility aren’t afraid to admit they don’t have all the answers, which makes them more approachable, and ultimately more trusted by clients and colleagues.
- Use EQ (Emotional intelligence) regularly during audits! Why? EQ helps you understand the perspective of your client. It also allows you to show empathy. A BIG part of the audit process is about building trust and relationships, which will always lead to a more positive and collaborative experience for both the auditor and the client.
Building on these insights, audit clients can also play a crucial role in fostering a positive audit experience by adopting the following practices:
- Be kind to your auditors. Why? Internal auditors are there to do their job just like everyone else. By showing kindness, you will foster a more collaborative environment, and the entire audit process will go more smoothly for everyone involved. A simple act of kindness like showing your auditor where the canteen is and allowing them to use it for the duration of the audit can make their experience more comfortable and contribute to a more harmonious work environment.
- Make sure that you fully understand the mandate of Internal Audit. Why? Key aspects of the mandate of the Internal Audit function include independence, objectivity as well as unrestricted access to all records, documents, and information necessary to fulfil their role effectively. When the role of Internal Audit is misunderstood, this results in limitations of scope, weakens stakeholder trust and ultimately leads to missed opportunities for improvement.
- Be co-operative, give the auditors the information that they need on time. Why? “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Everyone appreciates efficiency and professionalism. Remember, they have deadlines just like you, and moreover, their time at your office is limited.
- When answering questions posed by the auditor, don’t be vague or provide incomplete information just to get the auditor out of your office. Why? Auditors perform their audits with professional scepticism and are trained to identify gaps in information; therefore, this kind or response will only raise suspicion, lead to more questions, and prolong the audit.
- Be open to recommendations. Why? Nobody is perfect! Auditors bring a fresh perspective. When audit clients embrace feedback instead of resisting it, they make room for continuous improvement.
Choosing a career in internal auditing is not something that appeals to everyone. I still hold firmly to two beliefs:
- Being an internal auditor is a calling, not just a career.
- Work is an extension of ourselves.
When you walk out the door on the final day of an audit, the last thing that the audit client should be saying is “Good riddance.”
If I’ve learned anything, it’s that the most powerful audits aren’t just those that fix systems—they’re the ones that leave people feeling seen, heard, supported, and capable of doing better.
Because in the end, it’s not just about closing findings and moving onto the next audit. It’s about opening minds, building trust, and leaving behind something of yourself that will continue to inspire improvement long after you’ve gone.
Partner with Optigrow
At Optigrow Business and Accounting Solutions, we don’t just audit—we listen, support, and guide. Our approach is built on trust, collaboration, and a commitment to helping you strengthen processes while uplifting your people. Whether you need assurance, practical recommendations, or a partner who truly cares about your success, we’re here for you.
Let’s work together to create lasting improvements that go beyond the audit report. Reach out today for an obligation-free consultation!
