Is emotional intelligence the real differentiator in financial advice?

What makes a great financial adviser?For years, the focus has been on technical expertise. But as the industry evolves, that may no longer be enough on its own.In this episode of Foster Denovo Talks, Helena is joined by Emma Boardwell, founder of Emotional Finance, to explore how emotional intelligence, trust and human connection are becoming the true differentiators in financial advice.Drawing on her background as a psychotherapist, Emma shares why the profession often overlooks relational skills, how this impacts client outcomes, and what advisers can do to build stronger, more effective relationships.They unpack her framework built around trust, connection and collaboration, and discuss how advisers can move away from interrogation-style conversations towards something far more client-led.The conversation also explores the risks of becoming either too technical or too therapeutic, and how finding the right balance is key to delivering real value.In this episode:Why technical expertise alone is no longer enoughHow to build trust intentionally rather than assuming itThe difference between knowing a client and making them feel knownWhy many advisers struggle with emotional conversationsHow to balance professionalism without becoming a therapistWhat emotional intelligence looks like in practice