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JUNIOR LEVEL

How would you describe your written communication skills? Can you provide an example of a report you prepared?

Internal Auditor Interview Questions
How would you describe your written communication skills? Can you provide an example of a report you prepared?

Sample answer to the question

I would describe my written communication skills as clear, concise, and detail-oriented. I have experience preparing various reports during my previous role as an intern at a financial services firm. One report that stands out is a compliance report that I prepared for the company's internal audit. The report involved analyzing financial data, identifying potential risks and control weaknesses, and making recommendations for improvement. I communicated my findings in a well-structured and easy-to-understand manner, using charts and graphs to present the data visually. The report was well-received by the auditors and management, and it played a crucial role in identifying areas for process improvement.

A more solid answer

I would describe my written communication skills as precise, articulate, and persuasive. Throughout my academic and professional career, I have developed a strong capability to convey complex information in a clear and concise manner. For instance, during my previous role as an internal auditor at a large manufacturing company, I prepared a comprehensive financial analysis report. The report involved analyzing financial statements, identifying key financial indicators, and evaluating the company's financial performance. I used data visualization techniques such as charts and graphs to present the findings visually, making it easier for the management to understand the information. The report not only provided insights into the financial health of the company, but also included recommendations to optimize cash flow and reduce operational costs. The report was highly appreciated by the senior management and played a significant role in driving strategic decision-making.

Why this is a more solid answer:

This is a solid answer because it provides a more comprehensive description of the candidate's written communication skills. It includes specific details about the report they prepared, highlighting their ability to analyze financial data, identify key indicators, and make recommendations. Additionally, it emphasizes the impact of their report in driving strategic decision-making. However, it could still be improved by addressing the evaluation areas more explicitly and relating the skills to the job requirements.

An exceptional answer

I consider my written communication skills to be exceptional, characterized by precision, clarity, and impact. Throughout my career as an internal auditor, I have consistently produced high-quality reports that have demonstrated my ability to analyze complex data, identify risks, and provide actionable recommendations. One notable example is a forensic audit report that I prepared for a client in the consumer goods industry. The report involved conducting a detailed investigation, analyzing financial transactions, and uncovering potential fraud. I presented my findings in a compelling narrative, supported by robust evidence and visual presentations. The report not only identified the fraudulent activities, but also outlined control measures to prevent similar incidents in the future. As a result, the report was instrumental in recovering significant financial losses for the client and strengthening their internal controls. This experience showcases my exceptional written communication skills, as well as my ability to deliver tangible value through my work.

Why this is an exceptional answer:

This is an exceptional answer because it goes above and beyond in describing the candidate's written communication skills. It provides specific details about a forensic audit report they prepared, highlighting their ability to conduct investigations, analyze financial transactions, and provide actionable recommendations. The answer also emphasizes the impact of their report in recovering financial losses and strengthening internal controls. The candidate's exceptional skills and their ability to deliver tangible value are clearly demonstrated in this example. To further improve, the answer could be more explicit in addressing each evaluation area and how the candidate's skills align with the job requirements.

How to prepare for this question

  • Practice writing clear and concise reports by summarizing complex information in a structured manner.
  • Familiarize yourself with data analysis techniques and tools, such as Excel, to enhance your ability to analyze and present data effectively.
  • Read professional reports and articles to learn different writing styles and best practices for presenting information.
  • Develop your critical thinking and problem-solving skills to be able to identify risks and make sound recommendations.
  • Seek feedback on your writing from professionals or mentors to continuously improve your written communication skills.

What interviewers are evaluating

  • Written communication skills
  • Ability to analyze data
  • Ability to identify risks and make recommendations
  • Ability to present information clearly

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Tell us about a time when you faced resistance from management in implementing an audit recommendation. How did you handle it?
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Tell us about your experience using Microsoft Excel for financial analysis and reporting.
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How would you describe your written communication skills? Can you provide an example of a report you prepared?
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Tell us about a time when you had to present audit findings to management or a board of directors. How did you ensure clarity and effectiveness of the presentation?
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