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Tell us about a time when you encountered resistance during an audit. How did you handle it?

Auditor Interview Questions
Tell us about a time when you encountered resistance during an audit. How did you handle it?

Sample answer to the question

During an audit at my previous company, I encountered resistance from the finance department. They were hesitant to provide certain financial documents and were not cooperative in answering my questions. To handle this, I approached the situation with patience and tact. I scheduled a meeting with the finance department head to discuss the importance of the audit and the need for their cooperation. I explained how our findings would benefit the organization and help improve internal controls. I also assured them that any sensitive information would be handled with utmost confidentiality. By emphasizing the value of the audit and building rapport with the finance department, I was able to gain their trust and cooperation. We worked together to address their concerns and find solutions that met both their needs and the requirements of the audit.

A more solid answer

During an audit at my previous company, I faced resistance from the finance department. They were reluctant to provide certain financial documents and were uncooperative in answering my questions. To address this, I utilized my strong communication and negotiation skills. I scheduled a meeting with the finance department head to understand their concerns and explain the importance of the audit. I reassured them that their cooperation was vital for the success of the audit and that their input would help improve internal controls. Additionally, I highlighted my expertise in auditing software and the Microsoft Office suite, which allowed me to efficiently analyze the provided financial data. By building trust and emphasizing collaboration, I was able to gain their cooperation. We worked together to address their concerns, find suitable solutions, and successfully complete the audit.

Why this is a more solid answer:

The solid answer provides more specific details about the candidate's actions and how their skills and qualifications were utilized. It also mentions the outcome of the situation and how the candidate successfully handled the resistance. However, it can be further improved by including more information about the candidate's critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.

An exceptional answer

During an audit at my previous company, I encountered resistance from the finance department. They were hesitant to provide certain financial documents and were not cooperative in answering my questions. To handle this, I utilized a multi-faceted approach. Firstly, I extensively researched the finance department's concerns and the relevant regulatory requirements. This allowed me to address their specific concerns and reassure them that the audit was necessary for compliance purposes. Secondly, I leveraged my critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to identify potential risks and suggest mitigation strategies to the finance department. This demonstrated my ability to add value beyond the standard audit procedures. Additionally, I utilized my project management and leadership skills to coordinate with the finance department and key stakeholders. I allocated resources efficiently and set clear deadlines to ensure timely completion of the audit. By taking a comprehensive approach and leveraging my various skills, I was able to navigate the resistance, gain the trust of the finance department, and successfully complete the audit.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

The exceptional answer demonstrates the candidate's exceptional skills in critical thinking, problem-solving, project management, and leadership. It also emphasizes their ability to go above and beyond by researching the concerns and regulatory requirements, and suggesting mitigation strategies. The answer shows a comprehensive approach in handling the resistance and successfully completing the audit.

How to prepare for this question

  • Familiarize yourself with the audit process and industry best practices to effectively address resistance during an audit.
  • Develop strong communication and negotiation skills to engage with resistant individuals and gain their cooperation.
  • Enhance your knowledge and proficiency in auditing software and the Microsoft Office suite to efficiently analyze provided financial data.
  • Improve your critical thinking and problem-solving abilities to identify potential risks and suggest appropriate mitigation strategies.
  • Strengthen your project management and leadership skills to effectively coordinate with stakeholders and ensure timely completion of the audit.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Analytical thinking and attention to detail
  • Strong communication and presentation skills
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team
  • Proficiency in auditing software and Microsoft Office suite
  • Project management and leadership skills
  • Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

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