The Power of Influence in Internal Audit

The Institute of Internal Auditors Presents: All Things Internal Audit In this episode, Carey Blakeman talks with Doris Myles about why influence can be more powerful than authority in internal auditing. Doris shares lessons from more than 20 years leading audits across global organizations and mission-driven institutions, emphasizing relationship mapping, knowing your audience, storytelling, and building trust well before an audit begins.

HOST:Carey Blakeman, CIA, CPADirector of Corporate Governance Engagement, The IIA

GUEST:Doris Myles, CIA, CPA, CITPDirector of Internal Audit, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital

KEY POINTS:

• Introduction [00:00–00:00:22]
• Evolving Leadership Styles [00:00:32–00:02:05]
• Influence vs. Authority in Internal Audit [00:02:08–00:03:53]
• Relationship Mapping and Building Trust [00:04:11–00:06:11]
• Communication Mistakes Auditors Make [00:07:21–00:08:29]
• Essential Soft Skills for Auditors [00:08:46–00:11:14]
• Storytelling to Build Confidence and Influence [00:10:45–00:11:14]
• Leading Through Transformation [00:11:55–00:15:33]
• Building Influence Across Departments [00:15:41–00:17:55]
• Final Advice: Mastering the Art of Storytelling [00:18:31–00:19:32]

IIA RELATED CONTENT:  Interested in this topic? Visit the links below for more resources:

• 2025 Enterprise Risk Management Virtual Conference
• 'Mastering Soft Skills In Internal Audit,' All Things Internal Audit Podcast
• Communication Skills for Auditors: Interviewing and Negotiating Course
• Talent Management: Recruiting, Developing, Motivating, and Retaining Great Team Members Practice Guide
• IIA's Internal Audit Competency Framework
• Volunteer with your local IIA Chapter and Affiliates

Visit The IIA's website or YouTube channel for related topics and more.

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