How to become an Auditor
Auditors examine the financial statements of companies and provide an opinion on whether the statements provide an accurate view of the company's financial performance. Auditors also review the accounting systems and procedures of organisations.
Personal requirements for an Auditor
- Strong mathematical ability
- Good problem-solving skills
- Organisational skills
- Good communication and interpersonal skills
- Able to work well under pressure
- Eye for detail
- Have a methodological approach to tasks.
Duties & Tasks of an Auditor
Auditors may perform the following tasks:
- Give an independent opinion on the financial performance of an organisation, and the extent to which its obligations are met
- Verify the accuracy of information in the accounting records
- Verify that assets and liabilities mentioned in reports in fact exist
- Prepare financial statements and reports for senior management, shareholders and statutory bodies
- Arrange pre-audit meetings with taxpayers to discuss the scope and process of the audit
- Prepare audit reports, and follow up on actions and issues arising from these reports
- Assess the efficiency and effectiveness of an organisation, be it a private company or a government department
- Examine the records of government departments, statutory and municipal authorities and government-owned enterprises
- Advise clients on ways to improve their accounting systems, policies and procedures throughout the audit process
- Assist in a business stocktake and valuation of a business
- Follow up on actions required as a result of report findings.
Working conditions for an Auditor
Auditors work indoors in offices, in their own organisations or in clients' organisations. They may need to travel to undertake their work. Working hours are usually regular although may be long when working to deadlines.
Specializations
Auditor
Auditors examine the financial statements of companies and provide an opinion on whether the statements provide an accurate view of the company's financial performance. Auditors also review the accounting systems and procedures of organisations.
