Building Connection in Every Conversation

We believe that empathic communication is the foundation of thriving organizations. Our mission is to help companies create workplaces where people feel heard, valued, and connected.

Our Story

Soft Skill Me Up was founded in 2015 by Dr. Maria Santos, a clinical psychologist and organizational development expert who witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of poor communication in corporate environments. After years of research and practice, she developed a comprehensive methodology that combines neuroscience, psychology, and proven business practices to transform workplace relationships.

What started as workshops for small teams has grown into a comprehensive training organization serving Fortune 500 companies, healthcare systems, tech startups, and everything in between. We've trained over 50,000 professionals across 200+ organizations, helping them build cultures where authentic communication thrives.

Our approach is different because we don't just teach communication techniques. We help people understand the psychology behind human connection, build genuine empathy skills, and create lasting behavioral change. The result? Organizations that don't just perform better, but where people genuinely want to work.

200+

Companies Served

50K+

Professionals Trained

92%

Client Satisfaction

Meet Our Team

Experts in psychology, communication, and organizational development dedicated to your success

D

Dr. Maria Santos

Founder & CEO

Clinical psychologist with 20+ years experience in organizational development. PhD in Organizational Psychology from Stanford.

J

James Mitchell

Chief Training Officer

Former Fortune 500 executive who transformed company culture at three major corporations. Expert in leadership communication.

D

Dr. Aisha Patel

Head of Research

Neuroscience researcher specializing in empathy and emotional intelligence. Published author and keynote speaker.

C

Carlos Rodriguez

Senior Consultant

15 years in conflict resolution and mediation. Specializes in high-stakes communication and team dynamics.

S

Sarah Kim

Director of Programs

Designs and delivers transformative workshops. Former educator with expertise in adult learning and behavior change.

M

Michael O'Brien

Client Success Lead

Ensures lasting impact through ongoing support and measurement. Background in organizational psychology and coaching.

Our Values

The principles that guide every interaction and decision we make

Authentic Connection

We believe genuine human connection is the foundation of all successful relationships, both personal and professional.

Evidence-Based Approach

Every method we teach is grounded in research from psychology, neuroscience, and proven business practices.

Lasting Transformation

We're not interested in quick fixes. We create sustainable change that transforms cultures from the inside out.

Partnership Mindset

We work alongside you as partners, not consultants. Your success is our success, and we're committed for the long haul.

Continuous Learning

We stay at the forefront of research and best practices, constantly evolving our methods to serve you better.

Human-Centered

People aren't resources. They're humans with needs, emotions, and aspirations. We honor that in everything we do.

Our Vision

We envision a world where every workplace is characterized by psychological safety, authentic connection, and compassionate leadership. Where people don't just show up to work, but bring their full selves and feel genuinely valued.

Through empathic communication, we believe organizations can simultaneously achieve better business results and create more human, fulfilling work environments. This isn't a trade-off. It's the path forward.

Recognition & Awards

Best Training Program 2023

Training Industry Magazine

Top Workplace Culture Consultant

HR Executive Magazine

Innovation in Learning Award

Association for Talent Development

Client Choice Award

Clutch.co - 5 Years Running

Ready to Work Together?

Let's discuss how we can help your organization build a culture of empathic communication.