Finding My Voice: Lessons in Leadership from an Internal Auditor’s Journey
From Quiet Observer to Confident Leader: Finding Your Voice in Internal Auditing
When I first started in internal auditing, I was the quiet one—the person sitting in the back of the room, focused on following instructions and completing my tasks without drawing much attention. I believed my role was to be thorough, efficient, and discreet. Speaking up or taking the spotlight felt risky, and leadership seemed like something reserved for others.
But I slowly realized that quietly doing the job wasn’t enough to grow or make an impact. Leadership, I learned, requires more than technical skill—it requires courage, authenticity, and the willingness to step into discomfort.
Recognizing the Need for Change
The turning point came during a project where we were evaluating a complex internal control process. The team was leaning toward a certain conclusion, but I had a different perspective based on my analysis and experience. I hesitated at first, but my commitment to accuracy pushed me to speak up and share my viewpoint. It wasn’t polished or rehearsed—just a genuine interjection to ensure we were considering all angles.
To my surprise, that moment changed how others saw me. People began to notice my insights and started asking for my advice on similar issues. I hadn’t planned on becoming a leader or an expert, but over time I became someone colleagues turned to for guidance and perspective.
That experience taught me that leadership can start unexpectedly—simply by having the courage to voice your truth and contribute meaningfully.
Leading with Courage
Leading with courage isn’t about having all the answers or never feeling afraid. It’s about choosing to speak up even when your voice shakes or your heart races. I remember preparing to lead my first training session, thinking, What if I mess this up? What if no one listens? I reminded myself, “It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being real.”
During a meeting with senior leaders, I once raised a control risk that others hadn’t noticed. My hands were shaking, and I stumbled over a few words, but I kept going because I believed it mattered. Afterwards, a colleague told me, “You brought up a great point that made us rethink our approach.” That moment stayed with me—courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear; it means moving forward despite it.
I’ve also learned that leadership is personal. It’s not about copying others or fitting a mold. It’s about embracing your style—whether quiet or outgoing—and leading authentically. As Maya Angelou said, “Courage is the most important of all the virtues, because without courage, you can’t practice any other virtue consistently.”
Lessons Learned Along the Way
My growth didn’t happen overnight. It was supported by mentors who believed in me, training that sharpened my skills, and a mindset shift that welcomed mistakes as learning opportunities. I learned that leadership is a skill anyone can develop—especially in a field like internal auditing, where attention to detail and integrity are essential.
For those feeling uncertain or overshadowed, lean into your strengths, seek support, and remember that leadership is not about perfection—it’s about progress.
Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders
If you’re sitting quietly in the back of the room, unsure if you belong at the front, know this: your perspective matters. Your voice matters. Boldness isn’t being loud—it’s being brave enough to be yourself and share your insights with confidence.
One thing I’ve learned is that growth rarely happens alone. Find someone who believes in you—a friend, a colleague, or a mentor—and let them encourage you when you doubt yourself. Better yet, be that person for someone else. Seek out mentors or networks that offer guidance, support, and honest feedback. While you are your own best advocate, it truly takes a community to help you grow, gain confidence, and step into leadership.
Step by step, meeting by meeting, you can move from observer to leader. It starts with courage, is sustained by authenticity, and is strengthened by those who walk alongside you.
Owning Your Story and Power
My journey as an internal auditor has been one of transformation—from quiet follower to confident leader. Today, I lead internal trainings, speak publicly, and collaborate with teams to drive meaningful change. It wasn’t easy, but it was worth it.
I invite you to find your voice, embrace your unique leadership style, and lead with courage. The world needs your bold, authentic leadership.
