Title: 6 Skills You Need in Starting an Internal Audit Career
Headings: 6 Skills You Need in Starting an Internal Audit Career
6 Skills You Need in Starting an Internal Audit Career
What are internal auditor responsibilities?
What an Internal Auditor Career Path Looks Like
Read Next: Should You Outsource Your Internal Audit Function?
Core Skills and Competencies for Internal Auditors
Summary
Get reliable audit support

Content: In public companies, internal auditors are under the direction of the audit committee of the board of directors. This lends the audit committee full independence from the company’s management team, allowing them to report on operational issues as necessary. What an Internal Auditor Career Path Looks Like
In general, financial auditors begin their career in internal audit through a junior position immediately after earning a degree and a professional certification or license. Some of the common jump-off points for an internal audit career include positions in finance, accounting, or information technology. As for external auditors in public practice, a bachelor’s degree in accounting is required for you to obtain a license as a Certified Public Accountant, which is a general requirement for aspiring external auditors. Read Next: Should You Outsource Your Internal Audit Function? Core Skills and Competencies for Internal Auditors
In an extensive survey with chief audit executives, internal audit staff, and managers, the Institute for Internal Auditors Research Foundation identified the following knowledge areas and competencies as crucial in the execution of audit work: Communication skills, including oral communication, report writing, and presentation skills
Problem-solving skills (i.e., conceptual and analytical thinking)
Ability to promote the value of internal audit among key employees within the organization
Keeping abreast with regulatory changes and industry standards
Knowledge in auditing, internal audit standards, fraud awareness, and professional ethical standards. Knowledge in enterprise risk management (i.e., risk analysis and control assessment)
Other competencies that were identified in the survey were organizational skills, change management skills, critical thinking, teamwork, and conflict resolution and negotiation skills.