Introduction:

In this episode, we explore the VITAL framework, a powerful tool developed by Amanda C. Watts for building a thriving business. The VITAL acronym stands for Value, Impact, Trust, Agility, and Lucrative. In this episode, we'll delve into each of these components and explore how you can apply them to your business, life and beyond.

Key Takeaways:

• The Pareto Principle: Understand how the 80/20 rule impacts your business and focus on the vital few areas that drive significant results.
• The VITAL Framework: Learn how to implement the five pillars of VITAL - Value, Impact, Trust, Agility, and Lucrative - to create a thriving business.
• The Power of Value: Provide exceptional value to your clients and go beyond just delivering services.
• The Importance of Impact: Focus on creating meaningful change in your clients' lives and businesses.
• The Foundation of Trust: Build strong relationships with your clients and team members based on trust and reliability.
• The Need for Agility: Great businesses have the ability to adapt to changing market conditions, to new technology and industry advancements. All decision making needs to be swift and complete.
• Aim To Be Lucrative: Ensure your business is profitable and sustainable. You can’t help anyone if you don’t make a profit. Your work should help your clients to increase profit and be lucrative.
• Apply Everywhere: The VITAL framework is not just relevant to your business. The concepts can be applied to everywhere; life, relationships, health, family.

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Here'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.

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In this episode, we delve into the common fears and doubts that hold many financial professionals back from transitioning to advisory services. We'll discuss the importance of embracing failure as a stepping stone to success and the power of consistent action in overcoming obstacles.

Key Takeaways:

• Failure Is Inevitable: Every successful advisor has failed. It's about learning from those failures and refining your approach.
• Fear Is A Sign Of Growth: Don't let fear paralyze you. Resistance is a sign that you're onto something big.
• Start Small: Take small, consistent steps towards your goals, rather than trying to do everything at once.
  Build Relationships: Focus on building strong relationships with clients and other professionals in your industry.
• Develop A Strategy: Focus on one niche, create valuable content, and nurture relationships through consistent action.
• Take Ownership: You are the key to your success. Stop waiting for permission and start taking action.
• You Are Enough: You have the knowledge, skills, and client relationships needed to begin. Be your own hero.
• Start Now: This is the perfect moment to create your own opportunities and transform your practice.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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In this episode, Amanda explores the importance of marketing for business advisors, and advisory services. Discover how clearly defining your ideal client, understanding their needs, and communicating your value proposition can lead to more effective marketing and attract high-value clients

Key Takeaways:

• Define Your Ideal Client: Clearly identify the specific type of client you want to attract and develop and an understanding of their unique needs and challenges.
• Articulate Your Value Proposition: Clearly communicate the unique value you offer to your ideal clients, focusing on the benefits they receive and the transformations you enable.
• Focus Your Marketing Efforts: Target your marketing efforts towards your ideal client, avoiding generic messaging that dilutes your brand.
• Share Real Stories: Use storytelling to showcase the impact of your services and build trust with potential clients.
• Build Strong Relationships: Prioritise building genuine relationships with your clients and potential clients.
• Invest in Your Marketing: Allocate time and resources to your marketing efforts, as it's a crucial component of business growth.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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In this episode, we explore how to handle rejection in the world of business advisory. Leads don’t always turn into clients, and that can be hard. But, it also presents you with a great opportunity. Discover strategies for understanding the reasons behind rejection, responding gracefully, and using rejections for growth.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand the Reasons: Seek to understand the underlying reasons for rejection, whether it's timing, budget, or a mismatch in needs. Understanding them could lead you to overcoming them, now or in the future.
• Maintain a Positive Attitude: While easier said than done, be sure to approach rejection with a growth mindset, viewing it as an opportunity to learn and improve.
• Ask for Feedback: Request feedback from the prospect to gain valuable insights into your marketing, proposal and presentation. This will mean you can adapt and evolve to achieve better results next time.
• Stay Connected: Maintain a professional relationship with the prospect, even if they decline your services. There are many easy ways to achieve this in our digital world.
• Learn from Rejection: Analyse the rejection objectively to identify areas for improvement in your approach and offerings.
• Build Resilience: Develop a strong mindset to handle rejection gracefully and bounce back from setbacks.
• Keep the Conversation Going: Even if the initial proposal is rejected, continue the dialogue to explore future opportunities.

NOTE: In this episode I refer to 'Platinum Clients' which we discussed in Episode 56. If you haven't listened to that one yet, you can find it here.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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When developing your business advisory skills and practice, 80% of success is showing up consistently, even when facing challenges. Discover how the simple act of showing up can create opportunities and build a strong foundation for your business.

Key Takeaways:

• Consistency is Key:Showing up consistently, even when it's difficult, is essential for building momentum and achieving long-term success.
• Motivation is Fickle:Rely on discipline and commitment rather than motivation to drive your actions.
• Create Opportunities: Showing up consistently increases your visibility and creates opportunities for growth and development.
• Build Trust and Reputation:Consistency builds trust and establishes your reputation as a reliable and dependable business advisor.
• Small Actions, Big Impact: The cumulative effect of consistent effort can lead to significant results.
• Master the Fundamentals: While quality, strategy, and continuous improvement are important, they are built upon the foundation of consistent action

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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In this episode, we explore the concept of Platinum Clients and how to attract them to your advisory practice. Discover the key characteristics of Platinum Clients, the strategies to identify and attract them, and the importance of delivering exceptional value to retain these high-value clients.

Key Takeaways:

• Define Platinum Clients: Understand the characteristics of Platinum Clients, including their willingness to invest in high-value services, their desire for growth and innovation, and their appreciation for your expertise.
• Identify Your Platinum Clients: Analyze your existing client base to identify those who exhibit Platinum Client characteristics.
• Refine Your Offering: Create a premium service offering that aligns with the needs and expectations of Platinum Clients.
• Market Yourself as a Platinum Advisor: Position yourself as a strategic advisor who can help businesses achieve significant growth and success.
• Network Strategically: Attend industry events, join relevant organizations, and leverage your existing network to connect with potential Platinum Clients.
• Provide Exceptional Service: Deliver a first-class experience that exceeds the expectations of Platinum Clients.
• Set High Standards: Demand the same level of excellence from yourself and your team as you expect from your Platinum Clients.
• Avoid Vampire Clients: Identify and phase out clients who drain your energy and resources.
• Invest in Yourself: Continuously develop your skills and knowledge to stay ahead of industry trends and provide the highest level of value to your Platinum Clients.
• Be a Platinum Client Yourself: Demonstrate the qualities you seek in your clients by investing in yourself and treating others with respect.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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In this episode, we explore the two distinct roles within business advisory: Visionaries and Integrators. Discover how understanding and leveraging your own strengths, or partnering with those who complement your skills, can create a powerful and successful advisory practice.

Key Takeaways:

• Understand Your Role: Identify whether you're a Visionary or Integrator to better understand your natural strengths and weaknesses.
• Leverage Your Strengths: Play to your strengths and focus on the areas where you excel.
• Complement Your Skills: Partner with advisors who have complementary strengths to create a well-rounded team.
• Embrace the Power of Collaboration: Visionaries and Integrators can work together to achieve remarkable results.
• Understand Your Clients' Needs: Tailor your approach to meet the unique needs of your clients, whether they require visionary guidance or practical implementation.
• Break Free from Stereotypes: Don't limit yourself to a specific role. Both Visionaries and Integrators can offer valuable services and skills to their clients.
• Continuously Develop: Invest in your professional development to expand your capabilities and stay ahead of industry trends.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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In this episode, we explore the concept of Liminal Thinking and its application to the accounting and finance profession. Discover how this mindset can help you break free from traditional thinking, embrace new perspectives, and transition into higher-value advisory roles.

Key Takeaways:

• Challenge Your Beliefs: Question your assumptions about your role, your clients' needs, and the possibilities within your industry.
• Unlearn and Relearn: Be willing to let go of outdated beliefs and embrace new ways of thinking and working.
• Embrace the Liminal Space: Embrace the uncertainty and discomfort that comes with stepping outside your comfort zone and exploring new possibilities.
• Empathy and Perspective-Taking: Understand your clients' needs and goals on a deeper level to provide more tailored and valuable advice.
• Bridge the Gap: Communicate complex financial concepts in a way that your clients can easily understand and act upon.
• Understand Belief Formation: Recognize how your beliefs shape your reality and actively work to challenge and reshape them.
• Experiment and Iterate: Start small and gradually expand your advisory services through experimentation and learning from your experiences.
• Stay Open to Change: Embrace the ever-evolving landscape of the accounting and finance profession and be willing to adapt your approach.
• Take Action: Don't just think about the possibilities; take action to implement new strategies and explore new opportunities.

Want more? Join THE FREEDOM TRIBE

Here'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.

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Speak to you in the next episode...