How to Find Entry-Level Internal Audit Jobs: Expert Insights from Audit International

Introduction

Breaking into the field of internal audit can be the start of a rewarding career. I'm Jennifer, Director at Audit International, and I want to share some of the insider knowledge I've gained over 12+ years of recruiting in this field. This article will give you the practical steps and strategies to succeed in your job hunt.

Understanding Internal Audit

Definition of Internal Audit

An internal audit is an objective assurance and consulting activity designed to add value and improve an organisation's operations. It helps an organisation accomplish its objectives by bringing a systematic, disciplined approach to evaluate and improve the effectiveness of risk management, control, and governance processes.

Importance in Business

In today’s complex business environment, internal auditors play a crucial role. They provide senior management with comprehensive assessments concerning the risks faced by the organisation, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations, and helping to maintain operational efficiency.

Qualifications Needed for Entry-Level Internal Audit Jobs

• Educational Requirements: Most entry-level internal audit positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance, or a related field. Some organisations might also prefer candidates with a Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) or Certified Public Accountant (CPA) designation. While a directly related major is preferred, we've seen success stories with candidates from other fields who demonstrate strong analytical thinking and a quick grasp of accounting concepts.
• Necessary Skills: Aspiring internal auditors should possess strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a profound understanding of accounting processes and financial regulations. Effective communication and problem-solving skills are also essential to articulate audit findings and recommend improvements. At Audit International, we see a clear advantage for candidates who also bring basic data analysis skills to the table. Even familiarity with Excel for data sorting and analysis makes you stand out.

How to Find Entry-Level Internal Audit Jobs

• Networking Strategies: Building a professional network is invaluable. Attend industry conferences, seminars, and other networking events. Connect with professionals on LinkedIn and participate in relevant groups and discussions. One thing to add: ask for informational interviews with experienced auditors, even if they aren't currently hiring. This builds your network and helps you understand the day-to-day of the job.
• Utilising Job Boards: Search popular job boards such as Indeed, Glassdoor, LinkedIn and specialised boards like Audit International job boards. Tailor your search to ‘entry-level internal audit positions’ to filter relevant job openings. Don't forget niche job boards specifically for accounting and audit professionals.
• Leveraging Internships: Internships can be a direct pathway into a career in internal audit. They provide practical experience and often lead to full-time positions within the same company. I always tell students, to treat that internship like a long interview. If you make a great impression, it often converts into a full-time offer.
• Recruitment Agencies: A specialist recruiter like Audit International, particularly those who know the audit field, can be a powerful ally. They can open doors to opportunities you might not find on your own. So do not hesitate to get in touch with them. Often times heads of Audit, and Management of Multinational companies who we have worked with for years, will contact us directly to help them find qualified auditors from our own network of prequalifed and preinterviewed candidates and these job offers are not made available to the puclin domain.

Preparing Your Application

• Crafting Your Resume: Ensure your resume highlights relevant educational background, certifications, internships, and skills. Use keywords from the job description to pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Writing a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter should complement your resume by elaborating on your qualifications and expressing your enthusiasm for the role and the company.

Preparing for Interviews

Prepare by understanding common internal audit interview questions. Practice articulating your experiences and how they've prepared you for a role in internal auditing. Think of real-world examples from your studies or internships where you demonstrated problem-solving, analytical thinking, and clear communication in a team setting.

Navigating the Job Market

• Trends in Internal Audit Jobs: Stay informed about the latest trends in the field, such as the growing emphasis on cybersecurity and IT audits.
• Expectations for Entry-Level Positions: Entry-level roles typically involve assisting senior auditors and gradually taking on more complex tasks as you gain experience.

Conclusion

Starting a career in internal audit requires dedication and a proactive approach. By understanding the qualifications needed, leveraging your network, and effectively preparing your application materials, you can significantly increase your chances of success. The internal audit field is constantly changing. Follow Audit International on Linkedin to get insights on the latest trends and job openings. Your career journey starts now!