The future of internal audit: how to master adaptability

The role of internal audit will always be about providing assurance and advice. But it’s always shaped by the nature of risk, regulations and other pressures that could affect the resilience of a company.

As risks grow in scope and become more connected, so too does the role of internal audit. This can be a challenge in terms of balancing priorities and learning new skills. Or to look at it another way: the opportunities for internal auditors to upskill and add more value to their company is huge!

The key to a successful future in internal audit is to adapt. This guide explores the changing landscape of auditing, highlights essential adaptability skills and provides actionable strategies to help internal auditors stay ahead.

What’s influencing the scope of internal audit work?

The role of internal audit is evolving as technology, regulations and economic shifts reshape risks and opportunities. Auditors must adapt to deliver insights that strengthen resilience and drive growth.

Technology

It’s likely that your company delivers many services to its customers via digital platforms. This creates more risk around data privacy and cyber security. Internal Auditors must be savvy to the fast-moving nature of these technologies so that they can ask the right questions of the right people.

Regulations and standards

When regulations and standards change, internal auditors should be prepared in advance with appropriate workflows and effective reporting mechanisms. In some cases, as with SOX, new specialisms in internal audit may emerge that require a high degree of expertise.

Economic trends

Economic volatility often means that companies need to find operational efficiencies. It can also trigger a need to look for new ways to be competitive when market conditions are less generous. Internal Audit teams have insight into many areas of the business and can offer strategic advice on how to make the company more resilient.

Key adaptability skills every auditor needs

The ability to adapt isn’t just a soft skill; it’s a necessity for today’s auditors. Here are three core skills that underscore adaptability.

Tech-savviness

Mastering enterprise audit software, leveraging AI-powered tools for data analysis and working seamlessly with digital environments are non-negotiable skills. Auditors must proactively seek opportunities to upskill themselves in data analysis platforms and essential technologies.

Critical thinking

Economic shifts, regulatory updates or anomalies in operational processes often demand on-the-spot decisions. Critical thinking enables auditors to analyze these changes effectively, weigh the pros and cons and develop sound recommendations.

Effective communication

Sophisticated skills mean little without the ability to communicate findings clearly and concisely. Auditors must adapt their communication style to deliver insights to varied stakeholders—from board members to operational leaders. The ability to present data narratives and actionable findings adds significant value.

Strategies for developing adaptability

Adaptability doesn’t happen overnight. It’s a skill to be cultivated intentionally. Below are strategies to enhance your adaptability in internal auditing.

Stay informed and maintain continuous learning

Follow industry leaders, join webinars or access resources including Ideagen’s own resources. Gaining insights into new challenges and solutions helps auditors remain proactive rather than reactive.

Actively seek training opportunities

Whether internal or external, take advantage of training programs to sharpen your technical and interpersonal skills. Familiarize yourself with audit-specific software platforms and analysis tools to maximize efficiency. Build a versatile mindset Shifting priorities is a hallmark of modern auditing. Developing flexibility involves reframing challenges as opportunities. For example, ISO standard updates shouldn’t be seen as interruptions but rather as avenues to demonstrate expertise and add value.

Simulate real-world challenges

Role-playing or scenario-based training can help audit teams anticipate and respond to unexpected situations. This practice cultivates readiness and aligns with organizational objectives.

The enduring value of adaptability in auditing

Adaptability is not a one-time skill; it’s a mindset internal auditors must continually refine. Success in modern auditing requires agility in adapting to unpredictable changes, the ability to effectively integrate technological tools and the drive to communicate impactful insights.