ABSTRACT
Internal auditors need strong technical skills to perform their daily work, but results will be limited if they lack soft skills. Written communication skills are especially important because being able to summarize the results of an audit or consulting project is critical for success. Soft skills are often harder to teach than to hire for. Therefore, behavioral interviewing, other forms of assessment should be considered as supplements to the existing technical skills training offered. Soft skills are vital in service economy and team-focused environment. Soft skills are vital for success in today's service-oriented economy and enhance the value of technical skills. Soft skills become increasingly important in the career advancement of internal auditors as they move from individual contributors to managers and leaders. Other key soft skills include: Strong work ethic, problem-solving skills, flexibility/adaptability, good communication skills, time management abilities, acting as a team player, self-confidence, accept and learn from criticism and working well under pressure.
