Auditing Top Management

Internal auditors are required to audit top management as part of both ISO9001 and ISO14001 Management systems and most auditors find this task difficult. The questions that I am asked include:

If I criticise my boss, will it affect my future with the company;
If I do not audit strictly enough will my boss think I am weak;
If I audit too hard will my boss think me too pushy?

The way to audit top management is to apply a code of conduct that cannot be misunderstood:

1. Make an appointment to audit your boss, giving ample time;

2. Always arrive at the appointed time;

3. Determine what you need to know;

4. Prepare your questions in advance;

5. Always be polite and do not raise your voice;

6. Treat any non-conformity as a matter of fact and not a triumph over your boss;

7. Remember that your boss may feel the necessity to justify any non-conformity and you should allow him/her time to state the reasons for this;

8. Always agree where a non-conformity is present and do not get into a discussion if this cannot be substantiated;

9. Do not allow your boss to take over the process; you are in control;

10. And finally do not carry on the audit beyond the agreed time;

If you do all these thinks you will find that auditing top management is as easy as normal auditing.