I know. That is why I said he WAS being naive. But are we naive to think that these shady practices of being written up one day for ineffective internal audits, and receiving an unsolicited call the next day for a course on effective internal audits are no longer happening?
Many auditors also offer consulting work. While some are stupid to a point of blatant conflict of interest, such as giving two business cards away, one as the auditor and one as a consultant, others are more subtle. They write up a company and tell another friendly consultant that company needs help. Next week, the friend returns the favor. Nobody is policing that. If people like John does not voice such concerns, nobody talks about it.
Has this been your personal experience? Really? I believe that most auditors are very ethical people who do the right thing. I also believe that what you stated is currently more an exception rather then the rule.
Stijloor.