Lessons I Learned from My First Supplier Audit

I still remember the mix of excitement and nervousness I felt as I prepared for my first supplier audit.

As a procurement professional, I knew audits were crucial for ensuring compliance, mitigating risks and strengthening supplier relationships.

But knowing something in theory and experiencing it in practice are two very different things.

Walking into that first audit, I had my checklist ready, my questions prepared and my expectations set.

However, what happened during the process taught me lessons that no textbook could have.

 

1. Preparation Is Important, but Adaptability Is Key: I went in with a thoroughly prepared checklist in hand, questions ready. But real-life audits rarely follow a script. The supplier used informal records and had a different documentation style than expected. I had to think on my feet. That day, I learned: being flexible is just as important as being prepared.

2. The Best Auditors Listen More Than They Talk: Initially, I focused on ticking off questions. But when I paused and truly listened, the supplier revealed insights we hadn’t considered like a workaround that cut costs and improved delivery. Audits aren’t just about compliance; they’re a chance to learn and improve together.

 3. Numbers Tell a Story, but the People Behind Them Matter More: Inventory figures looked fine until we visited the warehouse. A staff member revealed manual logging due to a system glitch, something reports didn’t show. The lesson? Numbers matter, but understanding the people and processes behind them matters more.

4. A Good Audit Strengthens Relationships, Not Just Compliance: Audits often feel like policing. But this one became a partnership. Instead of tension, we ended with collaboration and a stronger relationship. Done right, audits strengthen trust and create room for growth, not just compliance.

Have you ever conducted a supplier audit? What lessons did you learn? Let’s share experiences in the comments!

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