The audit process had not always run smoothly. Still, after presenting our audit report, I found myself standing by the coffee machine feeling positive. The client told me how much they appreciated our industry knowledge and, above all, the way we had incorporated it into the report. They were used to audit reports being little more than a formality, ticking the necessary boxes. This time, they genuinely saw the relevance for their organisation. Moments like that remind me why this is such a rewarding job.
More than numbers
Many of my friends think I spend all day staring at numbers on a laptop screen. As a Chartered Accountant, auditing financial statements is certainly part of my role, but in reality, a large portion of my day is spent talking with clients and colleagues.
I try to visit my clients as often as possible. Being on-site often leads to spontaneous conversations, and those conversations help me build a broader understanding of the organisation. What challenges are people facing? What is happening within the business? I use those insights to make my reporting more relevant and valuable.
I'm a real people person. To me, that also means investing in relationships. It makes work more enjoyable, but it also helps you collaborate more effectively.
"As a Chartered Accountant, auditing financial statements is certainly part of my role, but in reality, a large portion of my day is spent talking with clients and colleagues."
Danice van Waarden,Senior Manager AuditStrong relationships work both ways
I was reminded of that recently. The day before we were due to sign off an audit, we discovered that several important documents were missing. I called my contact at the client to let her know. Less than half an hour later, she had made time for me, and we were sitting together in a Teams call, working through the issue.
I believe situations like that are the result of the relationship you've built over time. My clients are willing to go the extra mile for me, just as I am willing to do the same for them.
Of course, a good relationship does not mean every conversation is easy. Not long ago, I had to discuss a substantial additional fee with a client. I found that challenging. Conversations like these push me outside my comfort zone and help me grow professionally.
"My clients are willing to go the extra mile for me, just as I am willing to do the same for them."
Danice van Waarden,Senior Manager Audit
Building on each other's strengths
Relationships are equally important to me within PwC. Audit comes with demanding periods and tight deadlines. That's when you realise how valuable it is to have colleagues around you whom you can rely on. We step in for one another, support each other, and work together to maintain quality.
There is plenty of room for feedback, and I learn a great deal from the people I work with. For example, a partner with extensive experience and a broad network within my sector has had a significant impact on my professional development.
Technology also helps us work smarter. Recently, together with a team member, I developed an AI agent to automate part of our revenue testing procedures. This allows us to spend less time on routine work and focus more on areas where we can add value.
Why audit is about people
At the end of the day, though, accountancy remains a people business for me. Of course, the numbers have to be correct. But to truly understand what is happening behind those numbers and provide meaningful insights to clients, you need to get to know the people and the organisation behind them.
"I try to visit my clients as often as possible. Being on-site often leads to spontaneous conversations."
Danice van Waarden,Senior Manager AuditBehind every challenge, process and number is a story. Curious about discovering that story?
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