When I worked in the corporate world, I learned quickly that competence alone doesn’t open doors . I remember delivering a flawless presentation—well-researched, data-backed, polished. Yet, it went nowhere. Why? Because I hadn’t invested in relationships. I hadn’t thought about who in the room really mattered . Now, as a coach working with leaders and founders across the globe, that lesson feels sharper than ever. Success rarely hinges on skill or effort alone—it depends on w