Top 25 Auditor Interview Questions & Answers

1. Introduction

When preparing for an interview in the field of auditing, it’s crucial to anticipate the range of auditor interview questions you might face. These questions are designed not just to probe your technical expertise and experience, but also to assess your analytical skills, ethical standards, and communication abilities. A successful candidate will demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of the auditing process, from planning to execution and reporting.

The Role of Auditors in Financial Integrity

Auditors play a pivotal role in maintaining the financial integrity of businesses and organizations. They are tasked with examining financial records to ensure accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations. Critical thinking and meticulous attention to detail are essential traits for auditors. They must stay abreast of the latest industry standards and possess a deep understanding of audit methodologies and principles.

Moreover, auditors often find themselves navigating complex ethical scenarios, where their independence and objectivity are of utmost importance. Their findings can significantly impact a company’s operational strategies, internal controls, and reputation. As such, auditors must be proficient communicators, capable of delivering insightful recommendations that align with the strategic goals of the entity they are auditing.

3. Auditor Interview Questions

Q1. Can you walk us through your auditing process from planning to reporting? (Audit Process & Methodology)

The auditing process can be quite comprehensive, and it typically follows a structured sequence from planning to reporting. Here’s an outline of the process:

• Planning: Identify the audit objectives, scope, and criteria. Assess risks and resources required. Develop an audit plan and communicate it to the stakeholders.
• Preliminary Assessment: Gather relevant information on the area being audited. This could include reviewing previous audits, organizational structure, policies, and procedures.
• Fieldwork: Execute the audit plan, which involves collecting audit evidence through various methods such as observations, interviews, and document reviews.
• Analysis: Evaluate the evidence gathered to identify any issues or areas for improvement.
• Reporting: Prepare and present the audit report, which includes the findings, conclusions, and recommendations.
• Follow-up: After the report is issued, follow up on the implementation of recommendations and assess the effectiveness of corrective actions taken.

Q2. How do you ensure your knowledge of auditing standards is up-to-date? (Professional Development & Standards)

How to Answer:
Your answer should reflect your commitment to professional development and demonstrate that you are proactive about staying current with changes in auditing standards.

Example Answer:
To ensure my knowledge of auditing standards is up-to-date, I:

• Regularly participate in continuing professional education (CPE) courses offered by accredited institutions.
• Subscribe to updates from professional organizations such as the American Institute of CPAs (AICPA) and International Federation of Accountants (IFAC).
• Attend webinars and conferences focused on the latest developments in the field.
• Actively engage with a network of auditing professionals to share knowledge and best practices.
• Regularly review and study updates to standards published by standard-setting bodies like the PCAOB and IAASB.

Q3. Describe an instance when you identified fraud during an audit. How did you handle it? (Fraud Detection & Response)

How to Answer:
Discuss an instance where you identified signs of fraud, the steps you took to investigate further, and how you reported your findings. Be careful to maintain confidentiality and professional sensitivity when sharing specific details.

Example Answer:
In one of my previous audits, I noticed discrepancies between the physical inventory counts and the records. I followed these steps to deal with the situation:

• Documented the discrepancies and gathered additional evidence to support the findings.
• Communicated the issue with my audit supervisor to ensure appropriate oversight.
• Expanded the scope of the audit to determine the extent of the issue.
• Interviewed key personnel to gather more information while maintaining an objective and professional demeanor.
• Once fraud was confirmed, I reported it to the appropriate level of management and suggested involving legal counsel or external investigators when necessary.

Q4. What audit software are you proficient in using? (Technical Skills & Tools)

I am proficient in using several industry-standard audit software tools, including:

• IDEA: For data analysis and sampling.
• ACL: Another data analysis software, which is helpful for finding trends and anomalies in large datasets.
• QuickBooks: For small to medium-sized businesses, useful in understanding their financial transactions.
• SAP ERP: For understanding client business processes and extracting necessary financial information.
• Microsoft Excel: For data manipulation, analysis, and visual representation, including the use of pivot tables and advanced formulas.

Q5. How would you handle a disagreement with an auditee regarding a finding? (Conflict Resolution & Communication)

How to Answer:
Describe your conflict resolution strategy, emphasizing communication, professionalism, and the aim of achieving a mutual understanding.

Example Answer:
If I encountered a disagreement with an auditee regarding a finding, I would:

• Listen actively to the auditee’s concerns to understand their perspective.
• Clarify the reasons behind my findings, providing clear evidence and explaining the criteria used for the assessment.
• Discuss the implications of the finding for the organization, focusing on the potential risks and the importance of addressing the issues.
• Seek a resolution by exploring options together with the auditee, aiming for a constructive outcome.
• If necessary, escalate the issue to higher management or involve a third party for mediation while maintaining a professional demeanor.

Step	Action
Listening	Give full attention to the auditee’s point of view.
Clarifying	Explain the methodology and criteria used in the finding.
Discussing	Articulate the risks and the importance of the finding.
Resolving	Collaboratively work towards an agreeable solution.
Escalating	Involve higher management or a third party if required.

Using a table can be helpful in organizing the steps for conflict resolution in a concise and clear manner for the readers of your article.

Q6. Can you explain the importance of independence in auditing? (Audit Principles & Ethics)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it’s important to acknowledge the ethical foundation of the auditing profession. Independence is not just a concept but a fundamental principle that ensures the credibility and reliability of the audit process. Discuss both the appearance of independence and actual independence, and how these affect the confidence of stakeholders in the financial statements.

Example Answer:
Independence in auditing is critical because it underpins the objectivity and impartiality of the auditor’s findings. Without independence, there is a risk that the audit conclusions may be biased, which can compromise the auditor’s integrity and the trust that the public places in the audit report.

• Objectivity: An independent auditor is not influenced by the interests of the company or its management, allowing for objective and fair judgment.
• Credibility: Stakeholders, such as investors, creditors, and regulators, rely on the credibility of financial statements. Independence assures them that the financial reporting is free from material misstatement.
• Confidence: When auditors are independent, it instills confidence in the capital markets as decisions are made on the basis of trustworthy information.
• Ethics and Compliance: Independence is a key part of professional ethics and is required by auditing standards to ensure compliance with legal and regulatory requirements.

Auditors must maintain both ‘independence of mind’—the state of mind that permits the provision of an opinion without being affected by influences that compromise professional judgment—and ‘independence in appearance’—the avoidance of facts and circumstances that are so significant that a reasonable and informed third party would be likely to conclude that integrity, objectivity or professional skepticism has been compromised.

Q7. How do you prioritize tasks when working on multiple audits simultaneously? (Time Management & Organization)

How to Answer:
Demonstrate your ability to manage your time effectively and your organizational skills. Explain the criteria you use to set priorities, such as deadlines, complexity, or risk factors associated with each audit task.

Example Answer:
When dealing with multiple audits, I follow a structured approach to task prioritization to ensure efficiency and meet deadlines. Here’s my process:

• List All Tasks: Firstly, I list all tasks and their deadlines.
• Assess Urgency and Importance: I assess the urgency and importance of each task. Urgent tasks with impending deadlines take priority.
• Evaluate Dependencies: Some tasks may be dependent on others. I identify these and prioritize them to avoid bottlenecks.
• Allocate Time: I allocate time to tasks based on their complexity and the effort required.
• Use Tools: I use project management tools to organize tasks visually and keep track of progress.
• Stay Flexible: I remain adaptable to re-prioritize if unexpected issues arise.

By following this method, I ensure that I am working efficiently on the most critical tasks at any given time.

Q8. Tell us about a particularly challenging audit you’ve conducted. What made it challenging and how did you resolve it? (Problem-Solving & Experience)

How to Answer:
In your response, describe a specific audit that posed significant challenges. Explain the nature of the challenge, the steps you took to overcome it, and the outcome. Focus on demonstrating your problem-solving skills and your ability to navigate complex situations.

Example Answer:
One of the most challenging audits I’ve conducted was for a large manufacturing company that had recently implemented a new ERP system. The challenge stemmed from data migration issues that resulted in inconsistencies in the financial records.

• Identifying the Issue: The first step was to identify the root cause of the data discrepancies. This involved a detailed analysis of the data migration process.
• Collaboration: I worked closely with the company’s IT department to understand the technical aspects of the system and the data flow.
• Developing Solutions: After pinpointing the problems, I recommended specific controls to mitigate the issues and provided guidance on proper data validation procedures.
• Additional Testing: I performed additional audit procedures to ensure that the financial statements were accurate despite the initial data issues.

Ultimately, we were able to provide a reliable audit opinion, and the company improved its data handling processes for future periods.

Q9. What strategies do you use to assess risk when planning an audit? (Risk Assessment & Critical Thinking)

When assessing risk during audit planning, I employ a combination of qualitative and quantitative strategies to ensure a thorough evaluation:

• Industry Analysis: Understanding the client’s industry, including regulatory changes and competitive pressures, which may impact financial risks.
• Historical Performance: Reviewing previous audit outcomes and the client’s financial trends to identify areas of potential risk.
• Internal Controls Assessment: Evaluating the effectiveness of the client’s internal controls to identify weaknesses that may lead to material misstatements.
• Management Discussion: Engaging with management to understand their perspective on risks facing the business.
• Analytical Procedures: Performing ratio analysis and trend analysis to identify unusual transactions or events.

By integrating these strategies, I am able to prioritize audit efforts towards the areas with the highest risk of material misstatement.

Q10. How do you stay current with changes in laws and regulations affecting your audit area? (Regulatory Compliance & Continuous Learning)

How to Answer:
Explain the methods you use to keep abreast of the latest developments in laws and regulations. Highlight your commitment to continuous learning and professional development.

Example Answer:
Staying current with changes in laws and regulations is crucial for an auditor. I use various methods to ensure I am up-to-date:

• Professional Courses and Seminars: I regularly attend courses and seminars offered by professional accounting and auditing bodies.
• Subscriptions: I subscribe to industry newsletters, journals, and updates from regulatory agencies.
• Networking: I participate in professional networks where peers often share insights and updates on regulatory changes.
• Internal Training: My firm often provides internal briefings on important regulatory updates, which I actively participate in.
• Use of Technology: I leverage online platforms and software that flag regulatory changes relevant to my audit areas.

These methods enable me to integrate the latest regulatory requirements into my audit practice effectively.

Q11. Describe a time when you had to deliver negative audit findings to management. How did you approach the situation? (Professional Communication & Reporting)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, it is important to convey that you can handle sensitive situations professionally and constructively. Focus on your communication skills, your respect for management, and your understanding of the implications of audit findings. Show that you are able to provide solutions or recommendations along with negative findings to help the organization improve.

Example Answer:
In one instance, I had to report significant discrepancies in inventory accounting to the management of a manufacturing company. I approached the situation by:

• Preparing thoroughly: Before the meeting, I ensured that I had all my findings well-documented with supporting evidence.
• Being clear and factual: I presented the findings clearly, focusing on the facts and figures without assigning blame.
• Offering solutions: Alongside pointing out the discrepancies, I suggested possible corrective actions and improvements in their inventory management system.
• Being empathetic but firm: I understood that this news could be disheartening, so I delivered the information empathetically but maintained the necessary professional firmness to underscore the seriousness of the issue.
• Encouraging dialogue: After presenting my findings, I encouraged management to discuss the implications and what steps could be taken next.

This approach helped ensure that the message was received in the constructive manner it was intended, and the management took immediate steps to rectify the issues.

Q12. What is your experience with data analytics in the context of auditing? (Data Analysis & Auditing Techniques)

I have extensive experience utilizing data analytics in auditing to identify trends, anomalies, and potential areas of risk. My experience includes:

• Using specialized tools: I have worked with data analytics software like ACL, IDEA, and Tableau to analyze large datasets efficiently.
• Risk assessment: Employing data analytics has allowed me to perform a more rigorous risk assessment by analyzing patterns and trends that might indicate areas of higher risk.
• Continuous auditing: Implementing continuous auditing techniques where data analytics run in the background, providing real-time monitoring of transactions.
• Fraud detection: Utilizing data analytics to flag transactions that deviate from normal patterns, which could be indicative of fraudulent activity.
• Reporting: Creating visual representations of data to make complex information more accessible to stakeholders.

Q13. How do you approach auditing a new industry or sector you are not familiar with? (Adaptability & Industry Knowledge)

When approaching a new industry or sector, I follow these steps to ensure I can perform an effective audit:

1. Research: Start with extensive research to understand the industry’s regulatory environment, common business practices, and market trends.
2. Professional Development: Attend industry-specific seminars or workshops and seek guidance from experts within the field.
3. Internal Resources: Leverage any existing knowledge within my firm or network, including reaching out to colleagues who have experience in the sector.
4. Risk Assessment: Identify any unique risks associated with the new industry and incorporate them into the audit plan.
5. Communication: Engage in dialogue with the client to understand their business processes and the industry nuances that might affect the audit.

Through this methodical approach, I am able to quickly get up to speed and conduct an audit that is both thorough and sensitive to industry-specific issues.

Q14. What do you believe is the auditor’s role in corporate governance? (Corporate Governance Understanding)

Auditors play a crucial role in corporate governance by providing an independent assessment of an organization’s financial reporting and internal controls. The auditor’s role includes:

• Ensuring accuracy: Helping ensure the accuracy and reliability of financial statements.
• Enhancing transparency: By providing an opinion on the financial statements, auditors enhance the transparency for stakeholders.
• Assessing controls: Evaluating the effectiveness of internal controls over financial reporting.
• Risk Management: Identifying and communicating risks that could affect the company’s financial health and compliance with regulations.
• Advising on improvements: Recommending improvements in processes and controls to strengthen corporate governance.

Q15. Can you discuss your experience with internal versus external audits? (Audit Types & Perspectives)

Certainly. Below is a table comparing my experiences with internal and external audits:

Aspect	Internal Audit	External Audit
Objective	To improve an organization’s operations and control environment.	To provide an independent opinion on the financial statements.
Scope	Broader scope including operational efficiency, compliance, and risk management.	Focused on financial statement accuracy and compliance with accounting standards.
Reporting	Reports are given to management and the board, focusing on internal issues.	Reports are issued to stakeholders such as shareholders, creditors, and regulators.
Frequency	Can be continuous or at regular intervals throughout the year.	Typically conducted annually.
Focus	More forward-looking, aiming to add value and improve the organization’s operations.	Historical in nature, focusing on past financial activities.

• Internal Audit Experience:

  • Working as an internal auditor, I focused on process improvement and compliance with internal policies. I was involved in creating audit plans, conducting fieldwork, and providing recommendations to management for improvements.

• External Audit Experience:

  • As an external auditor, my role was to express an opinion on whether the financial statements were free of material misstatement. This involved detailed testing of account balances, verification of financial transactions, and discussions with management regarding accounting policies.

Both experiences have honed my skills in different areas of auditing, giving me a comprehensive view of the challenges and requirements in each role.

Q16. How do you ensure objectivity when conducting an audit? (Objectivity & Fairness)

How to Answer:
To answer this question, you should focus on principles and practices that facilitate unbiased decision-making and evidence evaluation. Discuss the importance of maintaining professional skepticism, following auditing standards, and avoiding conflicts of interest.

Example Answer:
I ensure objectivity in my audits by adhering to the following practices:

• Strict adherence to auditing standards: I follow the International Standards on Auditing (ISA) or relevant national standards, which provide a framework for conducting an unbiased audit.
• Professional skepticism: I approach each audit with an inquisitive and questioning mind, not taking information at face value and instead verifying evidence.
• Conflict of interest management: I disclose any potential conflicts of interest before the audit and remove myself from the assignment if necessary to maintain impartiality.
• Continual review: I regularly review my work and the work of my team for any signs of bias and take corrective action immediately.
• Peer review: I participate in peer reviews and invite independent reviews of my work to ensure that I maintain objectivity.

Q17. Explain how you verify the accuracy of financial statements during an audit. (Financial Acumen & Verification Process)

How to Answer:
When discussing the verification of financial statements, outline the techniques and procedures used to confirm that the financial information presented is reliable and complies with the relevant accounting standards.

Example Answer:
To verify the accuracy of financial statements, I perform a variety of procedures, such as:

• Vouching: I examine supporting documents to verify transactions and balances.
• Analytical procedures: I analyze trends and ratios to identify any unusual fluctuations that may need further investigation.
• Reconciliation: I reconcile balances with external information, such as bank statements or confirmations from third parties.
• Substantive testing: I perform tests on a sample of transactions to ensure their validity and accuracy.
• Walkthroughs: I trace transactions through the accounting system to ensure that the financial statements reflect the company’s operations accurately.

Q18. What are the key elements you look for when assessing a company’s internal controls? (Internal Controls Evaluation)

When assessing a company’s internal controls, I evaluate several key elements which can be summarized in the following table:

Control Environment	Risk Assessment	Control Activities	Information & Communication	Monitoring Activities
Company culture	Identification of risks	Procedures in place	Flow of information	Regular review systems
Leadership commitment	Measurement of risks	Segregation of duties	Accessibility of information	Adjustments to controls
Ethical values	Potential for fraud	Authorization controls	Communication of responsibilities	Internal audit function
Authority and responsibility	Changes in external environment	Performance reviews	Use of internal and external data	Feedback loops
Competence of personnel	Company objectives	Physical controls	Response to findings	Reporting on effectiveness

Evaluating these elements helps me understand how well the company’s internal controls are designed and operating to prevent or detect errors and fraud.

Q19. Have you ever had to audit a company that was using complex financial instruments? How did you approach this? (Complex Financial Instruments & Analytical Ability)

How to Answer:
Discuss your experience with complex financial instruments and describe the methods you used to understand and audit them. Detail the importance of staying updated with financial regulations and seeking expertise when necessary.

Example Answer:
Yes, I have audited companies using complex financial instruments such as derivatives and structured products. My approach involves:

• Education and research: Gaining a thorough understanding of the instruments by researching and staying up-to-date with relevant accounting standards.
• Expert consultation: Collaborating with experts in complex financial instruments when needed.
• In-depth testing: Performing in-depth testing of the valuation models and assumptions used by the company.
• Substantive analytical procedures: Comparing the financial instrument valuations and performance against market benchmarks and expectations.
• Documentation and confirmation: Obtaining external confirmations when possible and ensuring that all audit evidence is appropriately documented.

Q20. How do you approach continuing professional education in auditing? (Lifelong Learning & Professional Growth)

How to Answer:
Discuss your commitment to lifelong learning and how you stay current with the ever-evolving standards and practices in auditing. Mention specific strategies, such as attending workshops, enrolling in courses, or participating in professional organizations.

Example Answer:
My approach to continuing professional education in auditing involves:

• Regular training: Enrolling in courses and seminars related to current auditing practices and updates in standards.
• Professional memberships: Being an active member of professional auditing organizations to access resources and networks.
• Reading industry publications: Keeping abreast of industry developments through journals and articles.
• Certification maintenance: Ensuring that I meet the continuing education requirements to maintain my certifications, such as the CPA or CIA.
• Peer learning: Participating in discussion groups and forums with peers to exchange knowledge and experiences.

Q21. Can you describe the steps you take to ensure confidentiality during an audit? (Confidentiality & Professional Ethics)

How to Answer:
When answering this question, demonstrate your understanding of the importance of confidentiality in the auditing profession. Discuss the practical steps you take to protect sensitive information and how you adhere to professional ethical standards. Highlighting your experience with specific protocols or situations where you ensured confidentiality can be beneficial.

Example Answer:
To ensure confidentiality during an audit, I adhere to the following steps:

• Access Control: I only allow access to audit-related information to authorized personnel. This includes using password-protected files and encrypted communications when sharing audit documents.
• Physical Security: I make sure that any physical documents are stored in secure locations, such as locked cabinets, and are only accessible to audit team members.
• Data Minimization: I only collect and use the data that is necessary for the completion of the audit, reducing the risk of unnecessary exposure of sensitive information.
• Employee Training: I participate in and advocate for regular training on confidentiality and data protection for all team members involved in the audit process.
• Agreements and Policies: I ensure that all members of the audit team have signed confidentiality agreements and are familiar with the entity’s privacy policies.
• Secure Disposal: Upon completion of the audit, I follow proper procedures for the secure disposal of any sensitive materials that are no longer needed.

Q22. How do you deal with tight deadlines during audit engagements? (Time Management & Stress Tolerance)

How to Answer:
Discuss your strategies for managing time effectively, particularly when under pressure to meet audit deadlines. Explain how you prioritize tasks, manage resources, and maintain high-quality work despite the stress of tight deadlines.

Example Answer:
When dealing with tight deadlines during audit engagements, I employ several strategies to manage time and stress:

• Prioritization: I prioritize audit tasks based on their significance and deadlines to ensure that the most critical aspects of the audit are completed first.
• Planning: I develop a clear project plan at the start of the audit to map out all necessary tasks and allocate sufficient time to each.
• Resource Allocation: I make sure the right team members are working on tasks that match their expertise to maximize efficiency.
• Regular Communication: I maintain open communication with the audit team and clients to manage expectations and address any issues promptly.
• Flexibility: I stay flexible and am ready to adjust the plan if unforeseen circumstances arise, always with the deadline in mind.
• Self-Care: I manage stress by taking short breaks, practicing mindfulness, and ensuring a healthy work-life balance even during busy periods.

Q23. What experiences have you had with auditing in a global context, and what challenges did you face? (Global Auditing Experience & Challenges)

How to Answer:
Share your experiences with international auditing, focusing on the unique challenges and how you addressed them. Discuss any cultural, regulatory, or logistical issues you encountered and how your actions contributed to successful audit outcomes.

Example Answer:
My experience with global auditing has exposed me to a range of challenges, including:

• Regulatory Variations: Each country has its own regulatory framework, which required me to adapt and understand local laws and accounting standards.
• Cultural Differences: I navigated cultural nuances by being open and respectful, which helped in engaging effectively with international clients and team members.
• Language Barriers: In cases where language was a barrier, I utilized professional translators or relied on team members fluent in the local language.
• Time Zones: Coordinating across different time zones, I planned meetings and deadlines to accommodate all parties involved.

Challenges and Solutions Table:

Challenge	Solution
Regulatory Variations	Adaptation to local laws and international accounting standards
Cultural Differences	Openness, respect, and engagement strategies
Language Barriers	Use of professional translators or bilingual team members
Time Zones	Scheduling flexibility and global coordination

Q24. Describe how you’ve used audit findings to provide value-added recommendations to a client or employer. (Value Addition & Strategic Thinking)

How to Answer:
Describe a specific instance where your audit findings led to recommendations that benefited the client or employer. Explain the process of analyzing the findings, developing recommendations, and how these recommendations were aligned with the organization’s strategic objectives.

Example Answer:
In one of my previous audits, I identified inefficiencies in the client’s inventory management system that resulted in stock discrepancies and financial losses. After a thorough analysis of the audit findings:

• I recommended the implementation of a real-time inventory tracking system, which not only resolved the discrepancies but also streamlined the supply chain process.
• I presented cost-benefit analyses to demonstrate the potential savings and improved operational efficiency.
• The recommendation was well-received and implemented, leading to a significant reduction in losses and an increase in inventory turnover.

Q25. How do you ensure your audit recommendations are aligned with the strategic goals of the company? (Strategic Alignment & Business Acumen)

How to Answer:
Explain the approach you take to ensure that the recommendations you make as an auditor are not only based on your findings but also consider the company’s strategic direction and goals. Demonstrate your understanding of business operations and how that informs your recommendations.

Example Answer:
To ensure that my audit recommendations are aligned with the strategic goals of the company, I:

• Engage with key stakeholders to understand the company’s strategic objectives and challenges.
• Analyze the audit findings with a view of how they impact the company’s long-term goals and performance.
• Develop recommendations that not only address the immediate audit concerns but also contribute to the company’s overall strategic plan.
• Present recommendations in the context of how they can support the achievement of business goals, improve efficiency, or enhance competitive advantage.

Alignment Process List:

• Understand the strategic goals of the company.
• Analyze audit findings with a strategic lens.
• Develop recommendations to support long-term objectives.
• Contextualize recommendations within the company’s strategic framework.

4. Tips for Preparation

Before stepping into the interview room, use the job description to guide your preparation. Brush up on the latest auditing standards and familiarize yourself with the audit software mentioned in the posting.

Prepare to demonstrate your technical knowledge, but don’t overlook soft skills such as communication and conflict resolution, which are crucial for auditors. Reflect on past experiences where you exhibited leadership and problem-solving capabilities, as these stories can be powerful examples during the interview.

5. During & After the Interview

In the interview, be professional and concise. Auditors are expected to be detail-oriented and analytical, so showcase your ability to be thorough yet efficient in your responses.

Avoid common mistakes like providing vague answers or failing to explain your thought process. Remember to listen carefully and ask clarifying questions if needed.

After the interview, consider sending a personalized thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role. Inquire about the next steps and expected timeline for a decision. This not only shows your enthusiasm but also keeps you on the radar as they make their choice.