What's the Difference Between Coaching and Mentoring?

Coaching and mentoring are not the same, though the differences are subtle and those who coach and those who mentor use similar skills. 

The terms "mentor" and "coach" are often used interchangeably. Although most references agree there are differences between the two, descriptions of the roles are not uniform. So, since ideas about coaching generally derive from sporting models and mentoring is more often associated with careers, the following definitions may be useful:

Coach: a person who trains, tutors or prepares an individual for improved skill and performance.
Mentor: one who guides and stimulates an individual's reflection and actions for improved personal and professional outcomes.

Mentoring and coaching both: 

• Provide one-to-one interaction to achieve personalised learning and growth;
• Cater to individual needs, personal styles and time constraints;
• Can be conducted face to face or from remote locations;
• Complement formal training and educational experiences;
• Process real-life issues, problems and decisions;
• Facilitate access to information and choices about new behaviours and actions;
• Support the achievement of positive outcomes.

Coaching is used when there is a well-defined goal that is based on improving skills and performance.

Mentoring is appropriate for career planning, providing general guidance, setting and achieving goals, making decisions or facilitating problem solving.

Like to know more? This is an extract from The Mentoring Conversation by Ann Rolfe. Now available for just $20.00 instantly delivered as an ebook from www.mentoring-works.com Training is also available for your mentors. Contact us for details.