How do you handle situations where you encounter resistance or pushback from colleagues or clients during the audit process? Can you explain a specific scenario and how you dealt with it?
Lead Auditor Interview Questions
Sample answer to the question
When I encounter resistance or pushback from colleagues or clients during the audit process, I stay calm and listen to their concerns. I try to understand their perspective and address their concerns by providing clear explanations and evidence to support my findings. For example, in a recent audit, a colleague disagreed with my assessment of a control weakness. I scheduled a meeting with them to discuss their concerns and shared additional documentation that supported my findings. We had an open and constructive dialogue, and in the end, my colleague understood the reasoning behind my assessment. It's important to be patient and maintain a professional attitude in such situations.
A more solid answer
When faced with resistance or pushback during the audit process, I approach the situation with empathy and open-mindedness. I actively listen to the concerns of my colleagues or clients and try to understand their perspective. In a recent audit, I encountered resistance from a client who disagreed with my findings related to their internal controls. I scheduled a meeting with them to discuss their concerns and asked probing questions to gain a deeper understanding of their viewpoint. I provided additional evidence and explained the rationale behind my assessment. Through open and effective communication, I was able to address their concerns and reach a mutual agreement on the findings. This experience taught me the importance of building trust and fostering a collaborative environment to overcome resistance or pushback.
Why this is a more solid answer:
The solid answer provides more specific details and an example of a scenario where the candidate encountered resistance or pushback during the audit process. The candidate demonstrates their ability to approach the situation with empathy, actively listen, and effectively communicate to address the concerns and reach a mutual agreement. However, the answer could be further improved by linking the candidate's actions to the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description.
An exceptional answer
Handling resistance or pushback during the audit process requires a combination of strong communication skills, problem-solving skills, and team collaboration. When facing resistance, I first validate the concerns of my colleagues or clients and show understanding for their viewpoint. In a recent audit, my colleagues were hesitant to implement a new control procedure I recommended. To address their resistance, I organized a meeting and presented a comprehensive analysis of the risks and potential benefits of the proposed procedure. I actively listened to their feedback, incorporated their suggestions, and emphasized the positive impact it would have on the audit process. By involving them in the decision-making process, I was able to gain their buy-in and successfully implement the new control procedure. This experience reinforced the value of effective collaboration and problem-solving in overcoming resistance during audits.
Why this is an exceptional answer:
The exceptional answer provides a comprehensive response that highlights the candidate's strong communication skills, problem-solving skills, and team collaboration abilities. The candidate demonstrates their ability to validate concerns, understand different perspectives, actively listen, and incorporate feedback to reach a mutually beneficial outcome. The example provided showcases the candidate's ability to use data-driven analysis, involve stakeholders in the decision-making process, and successfully overcome resistance. The answer aligns well with the evaluation areas mentioned in the job description.
How to prepare for this question
- Develop strong communication skills by practicing active listening, clear and concise verbal communication, and written communication.
- Enhance problem-solving skills by engaging in critical thinking exercises, analyzing real-world scenarios, and staying updated with auditing techniques.
- Improve team collaboration skills by actively participating in group projects, building relationships with colleagues, and seeking feedback in a team setting.
- Stay updated with the latest developments in auditing standards, laws, and regulations to have a well-rounded understanding of the field.
What interviewers are evaluating
- Team Collaboration
- Communication Skills
- Problem-Solving Skills
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