Considering a career change or coming out of university and picking from the array of choices that Commerce gives you should be exciting! But it’s easy to get caught up worrying about niches, future opportunities and what a day on the job will actually look like.
Our awesome team have put together some FAQs on why you should consider going into auditing, and why at RSM!
What is auditing and what do auditors do?
Auditors serve as the financial detectives of the business world, examining financial records, systems, and processes to ensure accuracy, compliance, and transparency. We go beyond the surface, gaining a deep understanding of an organization's operations and identifying potential risks or inefficiencies.
At its core, auditing is about safeguarding the integrity of financial reporting and maintaining public trust. We play a critical role in upholding financial accountability, ensuring that businesses meet regulatory standards and that stakeholders can rely on the information presented in financial statements.
Beyond compliance, our work provides valuable insights that help clients strengthen their financial systems and make informed decisions. Auditing demands a high level of professionalism, ethics, and integrity—qualities that define our role as trusted advisors in the financial landscape.
But isn't audit boring?
Many assume auditors are just human calculators in suits, but in reality, we get a front-row seat to a diverse range of industries. Our work spans multinational corporations, emerging tech startups, agriculture, and high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), offering a constantly evolving and engaging experience.
The uniqueness of the New Zealand market keeps us on our toes. We work with well-established, household-name companies as well as innovative disruptors. There’s always something new to learn, making every day different from the last.
Auditing also takes us beyond the office. We’re often on-site with clients, giving us the opportunity to travel, work in different environments, and build strong professional relationships. And while professionalism is key, we dress for the occasion—whether that means a suit for a corporate boardroom or smart-casual attire when working with a more relaxed client.
If you enjoy variety, problem-solving, and engaging with different industries, auditing offers a career that is anything but boring!
Isn't auditing just about numbers?
Auditors are far more than just number crunchers. While technical expertise is essential, auditing also requires strong interpersonal and problem-solving skills.
Audit is a collaborative process, where every team member—from graduate to Audit Partner—brings unique strengths to achieve a common goal: delivering a high-quality audit with the right opinion. Success in this field isn’t just about technical ability; it’s about curiosity, adaptability, and effective communication.
We value well-rounded individuals who are eager to learn. While not everyone has a perfect academic record, skills like critical thinking, pattern recognition, and clear communication are just as important.
For those who thrive on interaction, auditing offers plenty of opportunities to engage. It’s not just about working alone with spreadsheets—building relationships with clients and colleagues is at the heart of what we do. Strong communication is key, as we collaborate with a wide range of personalities and need to present our findings in a clear, accessible way. Whether you're analytical, outgoing, or a mix of both, auditing offers a dynamic and people-focused career path.
Will auditing limit my career opportunities?
Auditing doesn’t lock you into one path—in fact, it opens doors to a wide range of career opportunities. Whether you choose to build a long-term career in audit or explore other industries, the skills and experience you gain are highly transferable.
Here’s why auditing sets you up for success:
✅ Versatile Skill Set – Auditors develop strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills that are valuable across various roles and industries.
✅ Clear Career Progression – From junior levels to management and specialisations, there’s a structured pathway for professional growth.
✅ Deep Business Insight – We gain expertise in understanding business operations, financial processes, and risk management—critical knowledge for any career in finance, consulting, or leadership.
✅ Global Opportunities – Auditing connects you to a vast professional network, both locally and internationally, offering career mobility and a wealth of opportunities.
Auditors are in high demand in New Zealand and abroad, and this demand is only growing. At RSM, our global network provides opportunities for international secondments, allowing auditors to gain experience in different markets while working in other RSM offices around the world. Whether you want to explore new industries, develop your expertise, or expand your professional network, the skills you build here will open doors to a wide range of career opportunities.
Do auditors work long hours?
At RSM, we prioritize a balanced and sustainable approach to work.
Like any profession, there will be busy periods where longer hours are required, but we ensure that our people are supported and looked after.
Auditing is a client-focused profession, and our workload naturally ebbs and flows throughout the year. While meeting deadlines is a priority, we emphasize a supportive culture where your well-being matters. Our teams work together to manage workloads effectively, and we provide the flexibility and guidance needed to help you succeed.
What makes auditing at RSM fun?
At RSM, we lead the middle market with pride—offering the resources and support to deliver high-quality work while fostering a strong, collaborative culture. Our teams work hard, but we also know how to have fun and celebrate our successes together.
Auditors at RSM bring energy to the firm, and we’re always up for a bit of friendly competition and socializing, with activities like:
🎱 Enjoying our in-office pool and table tennis table
🕹️ Taking a break with our in-office arcade machine
🍽️ Catching up at our monthly firm meet-ups with food and drinks
🏎️ Participating in go-karting, paint and wine sessions, and enjoying tickets to live sports in Auckland through our active social club!
Beyond social events, we’re committed to professional growth. Our in-house training, mentorship, and support for CA and CPA qualifications ensure that we develop both personally and professionally. Plus, RSM covers the cost of attaining and maintaining our professional memberships—helping us invest in our future while being part of a great team.