How do you work with auditors?

Working effectively with auditors is crucial for ensuring a smooth audit process and achieving meaningful outcomes that contribute to the organization's governance, risk management, and compliance objectives. Here are key principles and practices to foster a productive working relationship with auditors: 1. Establish Clear Objectives and Expectations: Define the scope and objectives of the audit upfront, including specific areas of focus, timelines, and deliverables. 2. Provide Access to Information and Resources: Ensure auditors have timely access to relevant documents, records, and personnel necessary to conduct their audit procedures.

Preparation is the key to a smooth audit process. Start by organizing all necessary documentation and ensuring that your records are up-to-date and easily accessible. Conduct an internal review to identify any potential issues that might arise during the audit. Create a detailed checklist of what the auditors will need and make sure your team is informed and ready. This proactive preparation demonstrates professionalism and a commitment to transparency.

Collaboration with auditors is essential for a successful audit. View auditors as partners who are there to help improve your processes, rather than adversaries. Foster an open and communicative environment by scheduling regular check-ins and being responsive to their queries. Provide clear and concise information, and be ready to explain your risk management strategies. This cooperative attitude can help build trust and facilitate a smoother audit process.

é importante revisar o relatório de auditoria. De preferência, em etapas. De início só ali na fun??o de Gest?o de Riscos, e, depois, com a área. Se estamos falando do relatório de uma auditoria externa, os inputs do time de auditoria interna também s?o importantes. é importante revisar, também, os relatórios de auditorias passadas e ter o tracking de como as recomenda??es evoluíram no tempo. Recorrências, por óbvio, devem ter prioridade na avalia??o.

Once the audit is complete, thoroughly review the audit report. Gather your team to discuss the findings and understand the auditors’ recommendations. Analyze the report critically, identifying areas of improvement and acknowledging any positive feedback. This review process is crucial for learning from the audit and planning subsequent actions.

Following up on audit actions is critical to demonstrating your commitment to continuous improvement. Develop a detailed action plan addressing each recommendation from the audit report. Assign responsibilities and set deadlines for implementing changes. Regularly update the auditors on your progress and any challenges you encounter. This proactive follow-up ensures that the audit leads to meaningful improvements in your risk management practices.

Managing audit risks involves anticipating and mitigating any potential issues that could arise during the audit. Identify areas that may be scrutinized and address any weaknesses beforehand. Communicate openly with the auditors about any concerns and work collaboratively to find solutions. By managing audit risks effectively, you can prevent minor issues from becoming major problems.

The relationship with auditors does not stop after the closing meeting and release of the audit report. One way to build and maintain the audit relationship is to have a post-closing discussion of: - what worked and continue doing - lessons learned (what to stop doing, iterate, etc.). This is an opportunity to ask about industry best practices based on generally adopted standards. - what to do going forward in preparation for the next audit cycle (if the same auditors will be involved) The post-closing discussion should cover things such as communication method, expected behaviors, and best practices.

It is essential to foster a culture of continuous learning and improvement within the audit process. Encouraging team members to view audits as opportunities for growth rather than merely compliance checks can significantly enhance the overall effectiveness and acceptance of audit findings and recommendations

Building a strong, positive relationship with auditors can significantly enhance the audit experience. Engage with auditors beyond the audit process by seeking their advice on best practices and industry standards. Show appreciation for their work and provide feedback on the audit process. A respectful and collaborative relationship can lead to more constructive audits and valuable insights that benefit your organization.