93. Understanding Conflict and Avoidance in Sessions

In this insightful episode of The Business Advisor Podcast, I dive deep into the often-avoided topic of client conflict—an issue every advisor faces but few discuss openly. I share personal experiences, expert insights, and a powerful framework called "GRACE" to help you navigate emotionally charged situations with empathy, curiosity, and professionalism.I walk through a real-world example where a client stopped returning my calls after receiving tough feedback about letting go of an underperforming team member. Using the GRACE framework, I demonstrate how to reopen communication with empathy, curiosity, and collaboration.Conflict isn’t a sign of failure; it’s an opportunity for deeper connection and growth. Whether you're dealing with silent clients, defensive reactions, or stalled progress, this episode will equip you with the tools to turn discomfort into trust.Key TakeawaysClient conflict is an emotional signal, not a personal attack.“When your client becomes defensive or avoids your calls, they aren’t deliberately being difficult. Their brain is responding to stress or discomfort.” – Amanda C. WattsHandled with care, conflict can deepen trust and lead to breakthroughs.“Conflict and resistance can deepen trust, strengthen relationships, and enable powerful breakthroughs for both you and your clients.” – Amanda C. WattsNaming emotions helps clients feel seen and understood.“By naming these emotions, you help your client feel seen and understood. This builds trust and encourages them to open up.” – Amanda C. WattsPushing harder increases defensiveness; slowing down creates space for progress.“The worst thing you can do is push harder, because this only heightens the client's defensive instinct.” – Amanda C. WattsSeparate your self-worth from client resistance.“It’s easy to take client resistance personally and feel rejected and frustrated. You have to remind yourself: this isn’t about you. It’s about them and their inner struggle.” – Amanda C. WattsPreview for Next Week!Get ready for Episode 94: “Creating Content That Stands Out and Gets Clients.” This is a highly requested topic from the community, and I can't wait to share it with you.Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBEHere's all the FREE BONUSES you'll receive when you join our exciting community on Skool; The Freedom Tribe Global Community Of Peers: CPAs, accountants, fractional CFOs, bookkeepers and finance professionals from all over the world sharing ideas, best practice and innovations with each other. Digital copy of Amanda's NEW BOOK, the Business Advisor Playbook: 300+ pages that will transform your approach and share the strategies you need to create, sell and deliver business advisory services. Digital copy of 500:200 Model™ Guide: My tried-and-tested formula for taking home at least 200K with business advisory revenue of 500K. 12 Days Of Business Advisory video series: that walks you through creating the perfect advisory offer. Hand Picked And Categorised episodes of the Business Advisor Podcast to accelerate your journey from a compliance-led to an advisory-led practice. PLUS: There are a few other surprise bonuses that can be UNLOCKED once you are inside the community: Get Clients Course and 5 Day LinkedIn Challenge. Super excited to see you there, and looking forward to helping you achieve all that you want in life. -Speak to you in the next episode...