What can I do to make them feel at ease and see the value of Internal Audits?
Good day
@ginarr ;
You've already received some wise council. Allow me to add another thought if I may. When I train internal auditors (many other organizations do as well), much of the emphasis includes interpersonal relationships. It starts with making sure we select (vet) the correct people to be internal auditors. Not everyone is suited for it. Once auditors are selected, refreshing them and emphasizing on the interpersonal skills will help, if done properly.
One of those interpersonal skills is the art of LISTENING. While some specific questions may indeed need to be asked, I emphasize the art of listening. As Stephen Covey's habit number 5 states..."seek first to understand, then to be understood.
e.g. Ask an associate...
1- Will you teach me about your job? How did you learn all this stuff? How do you know what to do? (let them brag)
2- What's the biggest hindrance to your job? (that gets them talking every time !)
3- What are your options when something goes wrong?
4- Do you have any options available if you have an idea and want to change the way things are done?
These type of questions allow people to talk and vent and even brag about their knowledge. Stand quiet and let them talk. Be sincerely interested in what they have to say no matter what is said or how they say it. They will generally LEAD you to the next question (if any).
Hope this helps.
Be well.