The People Puzzle: Interviewing, Body Language, & Generational Insights for Auditors

Speaker: Elizabeth McDowell

Member $80, Non-member $120

LEARNING OBJECTIVES

In this session, participants will learn to:

• Conduct structured, effective audit interviews
• Recognize key body language cues to support audit observations  
• Communicate clearly across generational differences
• Adjust their approach to fit different personalities, settings, and situations

SESSION OUTLINE

Interviewing for Insight

• Craft effective open-ended and probing questions  
• Use active listening and mirroring to build rapport  
• Handle difficult or evasive responses

Body Language: What’s Not Being Said

• Identify common nonverbal cues (eye contact, posture, tone)  
• Recognize signs of discomfort, deflection, or deception
• Practice matching verbal and nonverbal communication 
• Adjust your own body language to put others at ease

Bridging Generational Gaps

• Overview of generational traits (Boomers to Gen Z)  
• Explore communication preferences by generation
• Identify audit risks tied to generational misunderstandings  
• Tailor messaging to resonate with different age groups

Adapting to the Moment

• Adjust tone and delivery for formal vs. informal settings  
• Navigate remote or hybrid interviews
• Practice scenario-based responses
• Build trust while maintaining professional skepticism

Note:  CPE Certificates will not be issued until payment is received.