Understanding the Key Differences Between Coaching and Mentoring
If you are looking to take your career to the next level, you may be considering a coach or mentor. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming trying to figure out which one is the right fit for you. Here’s some guidance to help you decide.
Coaching and mentoring are two support strategies often used to help people in career transition. While both approaches can be effective, they are not the same, and it's important to understand their differences.
The International Coaching Federation defines coaching as:
“… partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential. The process of coaching often unlocks previously untapped sources of imagination, productivity and leadership”.
A coach will help you understand where you are in the transition process and your hopes and aspirations for the future. They will help you weigh up options and support you in developing a plan to achieve your goals. Coaches are not directive in their approach. They ask questions to encourage reflection and allow you to uncover your own answers. They can act as an accountability buddy to help you move forward with great momentum.
But, coaching isn't just about helping you achieve specific goals. It's also about supporting you to grow as a person and develop the mindset and skills you need to thrive in your life and career. A coach can help you build confidence and develop a positive mindset to serve you well in your career transition.
Coaches provide a safe and confidential space for you to explore your thoughts and feelings. Going through a career transition can be a stressful and emotional process, so it's important to have someone to talk to who can help you navigate these feelings and provide you with the support and encouragement you need.
Mentoring, on the other hand, is usually provided by a person experienced in the same industry or who is several steps ahead of you in your career. Their role is to support, advise and guide you based on their own experience. Much like coaching, mentoring sessions are usually driven by your needs and interests but a key difference is that a mentor is more likely than a coach to share their own experiences and offer guidance on career development and professional growth.
On a continuum between nondirective and directive support, mentoring tends to be more directive, while coaching tends to be more non-directive.
Levels of ‘directiveness’ are one of the key differences between coaching and mentoring.
Another difference is the duration of the relationship. Coaching is typically a short-term relationship involving between four and twelve sessions, which are formalised through an agreement between you and the coach. Conversely, mentoring is often a longer-term relationship, with the goal of providing ongoing support and guidance as you grow and develop in your career. Mentoring is often less formal and, in most instances, does not involve a contracting process.
Both coaching and mentoring are effective approaches for helping people to grow and develop. However, they are different in terms of their focus, duration, and level of expertise. Understanding the differences between these approaches can help you choose the right approach for your needs.