The world is full of people who believe that there is a secret formula for passing ISO audits. Let me tell you this – there is no secret! Simplicity is the winning strategy.

Instead of finding the way to survive the audit, get your act together and start setting the scene for the next successful review.

If you want to learn more about ISO 9001 – Quality Manual read my previous post here:

Stop struggling with ISO 9001 – 8 pages Quality Manual is here!

1. Be confident

Your confidence is everything. You and the auditor are approaching the audit on equal rights. There is no hierarchy or importance level. Make sure that you act professionally and show the best of you. Feel comfortable and relaxed. This is your house!

Tip – ask one of your colleagues to accompany you during the audit. It may boost your level of confidence and help facilitate the meeting.

2. Know your stuff

Get your head around all requirements of the ISO standard. Do you think it’s a joke? Think again. The number of times auditors come up with their interpretations of ISO standards is unbelievable. The latest revisions of ISO standards give more implementation flexibility to businesses. Make sure you have evidence to support your system. 

Tip – challenge the auditor if your evidence of compliance is rejected. Simple brainstorming can help put things right.

3. Ask questions

At any point during an audit, you should know exactly how things are going. You should ask as many questions as the auditor. Approach the meeting as if it was a conversation rather than a hearing. Request immediate feedback and clarification when needed. Take the opportunity to learn.

Tip – when you ask questions, take notes of the answers you get. This will show your engagement and support “lessons learnt” at the later stage.

4. Admit mistakes

Hiding the truth or lying will only get matters worse. Be frank and honest if any shortcomings are brought to the daylight. Never let your self-confidence suffer though! Review the issue with the auditor and agree on the action plan. If all systems were perfect, we wouldn’t need auditors.

Tip – never apologies if nonconformities are found. The auditor is being paid to review your system and provide feedback. Learn from the mistakes and move on.