The One Skill That Will Set You Apart in Audit

When it comes to audit, technical skills are essential - understanding IT general controls, IT application controls, system security, and risk management is critical.

But one overlooked skill can truly set you apart: Proactiveness.

A Lesson in Proactiveness

I learned this not from a book or a course, but from my father.

Growing up, I watched him stay on top of everything—paying bills on time, managing EMIs, planning trips, handling family responsibilities, and never missing a single thing.

He didn’t wait for reminders or last-minute urgencies; he was always ahead of the game.

At the time, I didn’t fully appreciate this quality. But when I entered the world of audit, I quickly realized: proactiveness is a game-changer.

Why Proactiveness Matters in Audit

In audit, being technically strong is expected. But being proactive?

That’s what makes you stand out.

Here’s how you can build this habit:

? Always be ahead of your tasks – Review your calendar midweek to plan for the following week.

? Overcommunicate – If something needs attention, don’t wait for someone to ask—flag it early.

? Take ownership – If a task requires more time or effort, inform your team well in advance.

? Send key updates in advance – If you have important information for the next week, send those emails now instead of waiting.

? Don’t wait for instructions – If you see something that needs to be done, take action.

Managers appreciate and recognize proactive professionals. They trust them more, involve them in bigger projects, and consider them for leadership roles.

If you’re looking to grow in audit, being proactive will set you apart from your peers.

A big thank you to my father for instilling this mindset in me it's been one of the most valuable lessons in my career.

That’s it for this week’s newsletter. If this resonated with you, let me know. I’d love to hear your thoughts.

Until next time, keep learning and stay proactive.

Chinmay Kulkarni