Zurich Australia is offering practical “soft skills” training for advisers to assist in the discussion of sensitive issues with clients.

Advisers will be trained in dealing with matters such as death and tragedy, training that Zurich hopes will improve interpersonal skills and communication with clients.

Head of Life Risk Andrew McKee says talking about topics such as death, illness and injury in the family requires skills many advisers might need to learn.

“Helping advisers develop a stronger base of skills on topics that affect their clients’ lives at critical times will not only boost their skills but could also boost their client base,” he said.

“While these softer skills may seem basic, they are often overlooked, yet they are the ones clients increasingly seek, and also the ones that give them an added sense of confidence in their financial adviser.”