Tell me about a time when you had to modify your audit approach due to unexpected changes or challenges.

Sample answer to the question

A more solid answer

During my previous role as an Operational Auditor at XYZ Company, I encountered a situation where I had to modify my audit approach due to unexpected changes. We were conducting an audit on the efficiency of the sales process, focusing on order fulfillment. However, halfway through the audit, the company introduced a new software system that completely changed how orders were processed. This unexpected change posed a significant challenge as our initial audit plan was no longer applicable. To address this, I immediately communicated with the audit team and stakeholders involved in the sales process to gather information about the new software system and its impact on order fulfillment. We held meetings with the IT department and conducted interviews with key personnel to understand the functionality and potential risks of the new system. Based on our findings, we revised our audit approach to include a comprehensive review of the new software system, evaluating its effectiveness, security controls, and alignment with the company's objectives. We also focused on assessing the training provided to employees to ensure a smooth transition. Additionally, we analyzed data from the new system to identify any instances of non-compliance or inefficiency. By modifying our audit approach, we were able to provide valuable insights and recommendations on the efficiency and effectiveness of the new sales process, including areas for process improvements and potential risks associated with the new software system.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer expands on the basic answer by providing more details on the impact of the unexpected changes and the specific steps taken to modify the audit approach. The candidate demonstrates strong analytical skills by gathering information and conducting interviews to understand the new software system and its impact. They also show adaptability by quickly modifying the audit approach and focusing on assessing the training provided to employees. The answer could be further improved by providing examples of process improvements and potential risks identified during the audit.

An exceptional answer

During my previous role as an Operational Auditor at XYZ Company, I encountered a situation where I had to modify my audit approach due to unexpected changes. We were in the middle of an audit on the efficiency of the sales process, specifically order fulfillment, when the company implemented a new ERP system. The introduction of the new system completely transformed the order fulfillment process, making our initial audit plan obsolete. To adapt to this unexpected change, I took a proactive approach and quickly familiarized myself with the new ERP system, attending training sessions and collaborating with the IT department to gain a deep understanding of its functionality and potential implications. I also engaged with key stakeholders, such as the sales team and customer service representatives, to gather feedback and insights on the impact of the new system on their day-to-day activities. Based on my research and discussions, I proposed a revised audit approach that focused on evaluating the effectiveness of the new ERP system, including its ability to streamline the order fulfillment process, enhance data accuracy, and improve overall operational efficiency. In addition to analyzing data from the new system, I conducted process walkthroughs, identified control gaps, and made recommendations for process improvements and risk mitigation. By modifying our audit approach in response to the unexpected changes, I was able to provide the management team with valuable insights and actionable recommendations to optimize the order fulfillment process, leverage the new ERP system effectively, and ensure compliance with internal policies and external regulations.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer provides a detailed account of how the candidate not only adapted to the unexpected changes but also took a proactive approach to familiarize themselves with the new ERP system. The candidate demonstrates exceptional analytical skills by attending training sessions, collaborating with the IT department, and engaging with key stakeholders to understand the functionality and implications of the new system. They also showcase strong problem-solving abilities by proposing a revised audit approach that focuses on specific areas of evaluation, such as streamlining the order fulfillment process and enhancing data accuracy. The answer could be further improved by providing specific examples of process improvements and risk mitigation strategies recommended during the audit.

How to prepare for this question

Familiarize yourself with common challenges that auditors may face, such as unexpected changes or disruptions in the audit process.
Reflect on past experiences where you had to modify your approach due to unexpected changes or challenges and be prepared to discuss them in detail.
Highlight your analytical and problem-solving skills by providing specific examples of how you identified and addressed the challenges.
Demonstrate adaptability and flexibility by discussing how you adjusted your audit approach to accommodate the unexpected changes.
Emphasize the outcome of the modified audit approach, such as the valuable insights and recommendations you were able to provide to management.

What interviewers are evaluating

Analytical skills
Adaptability
Problem-solving