COACHING vs MENTORING

I am often asked the question about the two concepts, as I do mentor people and also coach others. They want to know the distinctions between the two. It is unfortunate that many coaches say they coach people while they’re actually mentoring them. Though both have their place in a professional relationship aimed for growth, betterment and results, the two will differ in philosophy and methodology. 

Mentoring is about the passing down of knowledge and wisdom for one person to another. If you like Star Wars, think Master Yoda mentoring Obiwan Kenobi or Luke Skywalker. The older, more experienced one giving advice on “how to do” and “who to be”to the younger one. Coaching is more about helping someone find solutions, ideas and paths within the reach of the participant. 

A mentor will give advice, share knowledge, use practical wisdom. A coach will use curiosity as an instrument to better understand in order to help out. He will ask questions, too many questions some would say. A mentor would tell you “Go do this, it will work”, a coach would ask “What are ways for you to accomplish this?” A mentor would talk more and you would take notes and a coach would listen more to you talking!

A mentor would set goals and challenge you to reach them. A coach would hold you accountable to the goals you set. A mentor would sit down with you as an expert and a coach would sit by your side to encourage you as a fellow partner.

The two are necessary, they can complement each other in different ways. Sometimes, people enter a coaching partnership and expect a deluge of information coming from the professional coach. Often, the participant feels a bit destabilized by the coach asking questions instead of talking. Yet, coaching is a powerful tool for change and accountability. 

If you need a mentor or a coach, I can help you achieve what you want. Hey, we can even have a hybrid of the two concepts! At no cost and with no pressure, reach out to me and let’s have a conversation.