In this episode, we kick off a six-week series on the often-overlooked power of soft skills in the accounting and advisory world. This isn’t just fluff — it’s foundational to how you deliver value. As advisors, many of us have been trained to be technicians, but now it’s time to step into leadership, build trust, and create transformation for our clients. Without strong soft skills, your advice can fall flat, no matter how accurate it is. I introduce the CORE framework — Connection, Ownership, Relationship, and Elevation — to help you build these skills intentionally and confidently over the next few weeks.

Key Takeaways:

1. Connection is essential before advice can be heard.

“Real connection happens long before a client follows your advice. It happens when they feel seen.” – Amanda C. Watts

2. Encouraging ownership helps clients become confident decision-makers.

“When you stop trying to give the right answers and instead start asking the right questions, something changes in your relationship with your clients.” – Amanda C. Watts

3. Strong relationships transform transactional interactions into meaningful partnerships.

“Relationships are built through presence and a relationship with a person. They are about showing up with curiosity and not your ego.” – Amanda C. Watts

4. Elevation shifts clients’ mindset, helping them think bigger and act bolder.

“You elevate how they see themselves. You help them think bigger, dream again, and make bolder moves.” – Amanda C. Watts

5. Soft skills turn technical expertise into transformational impact.

“Soft skills shift your work from informative to transformational.” – Amanda C. Watts

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