This episode of Root Ready dives into the art of first impressions: why small talk isn’t small and how skipping the weather talk might be the smartest move you make. Whether you’re a new advisor or a seasoned planner, this conversation unpacks how to show confidence, warmth, and leadership from the moment a meeting starts.

James shares practical strategies for opening virtual meetings in a way that builds genuine rapport and trust without sounding scripted. From the psychology of posture and tone to the power of open-ended questions and clear agendas, you’ll learn how to turn the “awkward first minute” into a connection that lasts.

Because clients don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care and that starts long before you talk about money.

Listen to this episode to learn how to show up with presence, lead with purpose, and build relationships that feel real from the very first hello.

Submit a question for James here: https://rootreadypodcast.com/

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