by Vanessa Cardenas, Trusted Advisor for Betrayal & Transformation

In the world of consulting and coaching, the terms "expert" and "trusted advisor" are often used interchangeably. 

But is there a difference between the two? And if so, what is it? 

As a Trusted Adviser, I think it's crucial to demonstrate virtues that make my clients feel confident in me. These qualities include being dependable, consistently assisting clients in thinking through issues, and challenging their presumptions. Another crucial skill is the capacity to gently correct clients and criticize them when necessary. A reliable advisor should also be committed to the long term, always keep in mind what has been spoken, and always act honorably.

Many people define an expert as someone with extensive knowledge or expertise in a given area or profession. They are frequently asked for their knowledge to help with a very specific problem or offer advice in a particular area. You consult a lawyer if you require legal counsel. You consult a doctor for medical guidance if necessary. These experts possess a certain set of abilities and know-how that they have developed over years of extensive training and experience.

A trusted advisor, on the other hand, is someone who offers guidance and recommendations both within and outside of their field of expertise. They are someone who can be relied upon to offer unwavering moral and ethical guidance, especially in circumstances when their area of specialization may not be applicable. Someone who can be a confidential sounding board for moral quandaries and ethical issues is a valued member of your inner circle.

As a Trusted Advisor, I believe that it's important to exhibit positive character traits that inspire trust in my clients. These traits include being consistent, always helping clients see things from a fresh perspective, helping them think things through, and challenging their assumptions. It's also important to have the ability to criticize and correct clients gently, without pulling any punches. A trusted advisor must also be in it for the long haul, always remembering everything that has been said, and always being honorable.

The difference between an expert and a trusted advisor is not always clear-cut, as there is often an overlap between the two. However, the distinction between the two is important to understand, especially since being a trusted advisor is not something that can be bought or sold. Trust must be earned and maintained by consistently exhibiting positive traits and providing sound advice.

In closing, while being an expert is certainly valuable, being a trusted advisor requires something more. It requires a deep level of empathy, understanding, and the ability to provide sound moral and ethical advice.

As a Trusted Advisor for Betrayal and Transformation, I strive to earn and maintain the trust of my clients by consistently exhibiting positive character traits and providing sound advice.