When is it coaching and when is it mentoring?

Into every executive coaching program a little mentoring will come.  It is inevitable because the executive coach has their own experiences and resources that he/she brings to the coaching relationship.   These resources are useful and add practical dimensions and value for the manager or executive being coached.  
 
  

Which is right for me:  executive coaching or mentoring?

 

 Yet, while sharing stories and experiences, the executive coach must not allow the mentoring elements to dominate or eclipse the coaching elements of the program.  As executive coaches and mentors, we must have a very clear understanding of the similarities and differences between coaching and mentoring.  Some key points of differentiation are:

·         Mentoring is holistic and takes account of the broad implications of the executive's career whereas executive coaching identifies and develops specific leadership skills, strategies and relationships.

·         A mentor contributes freely and often from their extensive leadership and management experience whereas an executive coach has not necessarily held a senior leadership position.

·         Mentoring often takes place over an extended period of time whereas coaching takes place over a set period, typically from 6 to 12 months.

·         Mentoring provides the space for the executive to reflect on what they have learnt and to think through the issues they need to deal with.   Executive coaches focus on the specific skills and strategies the executive needs to learn and apply in immediate and practical ways.

·         A mentoring program is – or should be – managed by the person being mentored  (the mentee) whereas an executive coaching program is managed by the executive coach and the person being coached.

·        Executive coaching and mentoring programs can be facilitated internally with excellent outcomes.  However, to enable a manager or executive to be completely trusting and unreserved about disclosures, there are times when an executive coaching or mentoring program is best facilitated by an external executive coaching firm. 

 

 

Lynne Lloyd

People Results

Telephone 1300 167 981

Email:  enquiries@peopleresults.com.au

Web:  www.peopleresults.com.au

 

 

People Results is a leading provider of customised executive coaching, mentoring and talent development programs.  A People Results’Executive Coaching or Mentoring Program ensures that leaders and emerging leaders are developing the enhanced capabilities and confidence to reach and exceed their personal, team and organisational goals.  Find out more and/or contact us at www.peopleresults.com.au.