Audit Interview Techniques

Techniques for building trust, extracting insights, and navigating challenges with confidence
A professional woman smiling confidently during an audit interview, engaging in a constructive discussion with a colleague

Why offer a seminar on audit interview techniques?

The success of an audit often hinges on the interview process. It is during these critical conversations that auditors extract the insights, confirmations, and clarifications needed to paint a complete and accurate picture of organizational processes. However, the interview stage is also where challenges emerge – evasive answers, incomplete information, or a defensive stance from the interviewee can derail progress, creating gaps in the audit’s findings.

A successful audit interview is not just about asking the right questions but about creating an environment that encourages openness, trust, and cooperation. It requires the auditor to combine technical acumen with refined interpersonal skills, ensuring that even the most sensitive topics are explored effectively.

« The art of questioning lies in drawing out what isn’t being said, not just confirming what is. ».

This seminar equips auditors with the skills to foster trust and transparency while mastering techniques for effective questioning, handling challenging behaviors, and gathering factual information. Participants will gain practical tools and self-awareness to navigate the discovery and investigative phases of an audit with professionalism and credibility.

From proven technics for questioning and appropriate interview styles to techniques for managing time and dealing with difficult behavior, this seminar equips participants with the strategies to excel in audit interviews. Through role-playing exercises, approved case studies, and filmed feedback sessions, participants will refine their ability to manage complex situations with confidence and clarity while upholding the integrity and objectives of the audit process.

Delivery modes
In-person
Virtual classroom
or blended learning

Duration
7 hours per day

Start Date
Anytime throughout the year

Prerequisites
Intermediate English

Price
2-day course: €1,050 per participant

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Seminar Objectives

Learn through exercises, group interaction and presentation:

Identify the common benefits and interests of a successful audit for both auditors and auditees

Learn how to create and maintain a climate of confidence with your auditee during the different phases of an audit

Understand the advantages and limitations of the 3 principal interview styles

Master different questioning/reformulation techniques to ensure time management and that the information gathered is factual, rather than based on opinions and/or feelings

Gain practical tools for the discovery and investigative phases of an audit

Differentiate between assertive, aggressive, passive, and manipulative behavior traits

Identify your dominant behavior trait to improve your sensitivity in enhancing reactions and interactions with auditees

Learn techniques on how to deal effectively with difficult and/or disruptive behavior

Participate in role-playing exercises using General Inspection approved case studies to simulate the discovery and investigative phases

Engage in filmed role-play sessions to receive constructive feedback to ensure coherency, clarity and credibility during the Discovery and Investigative phases of an audit

Target Audience

This « Audit Interview Techniques » training is ideal for:

  • Internal and External Auditors looking to enhance their interviewing skills, build trust with auditees, and gather accurate, actionable information
  • Compliance Officers and Quality Assurance Professionals aiming to identify and address key issues during audits while maintaining a positive, professional dynamic
  • Team Leaders and Managers overseeing audits who want to ensure effective communication, manage difficult behaviors, and uphold corporate values
  • Human Resources and Organizational Development Specialists responsible for conducting audits or evaluations and seeking practical tools for structured and efficient interviews
  • Professionals in High-Stakes Environments where audits are critical for compliance, efficiency, and organizational improvement
  • Professionals or Individuals who need to conduct interviews, or who wish to excel in interviews for hiring purposes.

This Audit/Interview Seminar is perfect for those looking to master questioning techniques, interview styles, assertive communication, meta-language, and empathy, enabling them to conduct interviews or respond effectively in an interview setting and foster productive relationships with their interlocutors.

Prerequisites

English speaking

Learning Environment

Group sessions with 4 – 8 participants

Schedule

2 consecutive days in a group (intensive course)

Materials

  • Course support
  • Case Studies 6 case studies that simulate the different phases of an audit (Discovery/Investigation/Reporting)
  • Behavior Auto Diagnostic Test
  • Preparation and organization forms
  • Effective Meta-language document for conducting an interview

References

Available upon request

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