It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a business in possession of a quality standard, must be in need of an ISO auditor. This may sound like a simplistic paraphrasing of Jane Austen, but it captures the essence of the daunting task that lies ahead for firms seeking ISO certification. One might argue that the engagement of ISO auditors is a critical, if not the most critical, step in this process. As with all important decisions, hindsight is truly 20/20, so here are the 11 key insights I wish I had before embarking on this journey of ISO certification.

• The ISO Auditor's role is more than just compliance : In the realm of ISO certification, auditors are more than mere compliance checkers. They play a pivotal role in helping organizations improve their processes, reduce inefficiencies, and enhance overall effectiveness.
• Auditor competence varies : Not all ISO auditors are created equal. Their competence can range significantly, with some being little more than bureaucratic box-tickers, while others are seasoned professionals with a keen eye for process improvement.
• Select an auditor with industry-specific knowledge : ISO standards are applicable across a broad range of industries. An auditor with extensive experience in your industry will bring a wealth of practical insights to the table. This contextual knowledge can be invaluable in interpreting ISO requirements in a manner that fits your specific business needs.
• ISO Standard selection matters : While ISO 9001 (Quality Management System) is the most popular standard, there are numerous other standards like ISO 14001 (Environmental Management System), ISO 27001 (Information Security Management), etc., to choose from. An auditor well-versed in the specific ISO standard you seek to certify in can provide tailored advice.
• Auditors don’t create systems, they review them : Auditors are not consultants. Their role is to assess your existing quality management system against the requirements of the ISO standard. They don't design or implement systems for you.
• Auditors can’t offer specific solutions : Auditors can identify non-compliances and areas of improvement, but they cannot prescribe specific solutions. They are there to guide, not dictate.
• Four-Eye principle applies to auditors too : Just as in accounting, it is beneficial to have more than one set of eyes look at your system. Multiple auditors bring varied experience and perspectives, resulting in a more robust audit.
• Audit findings are not necessarily negative : Audit findings should not be viewed as negative. They provide valuable insights into your processes and highlight areas for improvement.
• Interpersonal skills matter : The process of auditing can sometimes be disruptive. An auditor with great interpersonal skills can facilitate a smoother process, reducing anxiety and resistance among your staff.
• Audits are not a one-time process : ISO audits are not a one-time event but a continuous process. Regular audits ensure your systems remain compliant and continue to improve.
• Price is not the sole consideration : While budgetary considerations are important, the cheapest audit may not yield the best outcome. The auditor's competence, industry knowledge, experience with the specific ISO standard, and personal attributes should also be factored into the decision-making process.

In essence, an ISO auditor is a critical partner in your journey towards continuous improvement and international recognition. Their role extends beyond simple compliance checking to facilitating process improvement and system effectiveness. Remembering these 11 key points can make this journey smoother and more productive. As John Maynard Keynes once said, "It is better to be roughly right than precisely wrong." The right auditor can help you achieve this delicate balance.