Often there is the dilemma of whether one needs a coach or a mentor. This article discusses the differences in the most simple terms to help you on your journey in identifying what’s going to be most useful to you and when. This is part 1 of 4 articles in the series.
A quick google search will provide you a plethora of definitions of coaching; everything from coaching being a relationship between a more experienced person and a learner to a means of development. Most of these definitions are correct. However, I like simple things and my brain absorbs information when delivered simply. So, my preferred definition of coaching is that it’s a process through which you maximise your potential to be the very best version of yourself. I’m deliberate in my choice of words because genuinely:
Coaching is a process: it’s a journey. Sometimes an uncomfortable one because it requires self-reflection and honesty. As humans, we generally shy away from discomfort. But to have an impactful coaching experience, you have to get comfortable with the uncomfortable. It is also not a ‘quick fix’. A true coaching experience will require you to identify root causes, make some choices, apply those choices consistently until new skills and capabilities are honed. That takes time. In a world where instant gratification is the order of the day, this may not be the popular answer but it is a journey to the other side.
Coaching is about maximising potential: you can only develop what you already have. It is about creating the very best version of you. It is not a remedial intervention. It is a growth initiative.
Finally, coaching is about YOU. The purpose for the coaching journey should be clear to you. Why do you want to …..(fill in the blank)? That reason is what will ultimately keep you focussed, making the right choices, consistent, especially when the journey gets uncomfortable.
So how is Coaching different from Mentoring?
Google is your friend again here. There are many definitions of mentoring but as I have explained my love of simplicity, here’s my definition: Mentoring is a relationship between two people, one more experienced and the other less so, where the less experienced person acquires skills, knowledge and insights they need to navigate certain areas of either their professional or personal life. Most mentoring relationships are unspoken and evolve naturally. Professional mentoring relationships though often have to be deliberately curated.
Coaching is more beneficial when trying to hone latent skills; it is a much more intentional and deliberately focussed initiative. For example, a coach does not need to be an expert in your profession for the coaching relationship to be impactful. Mentoring is more about building skills that you don’t have or gaining insights that come with experience so mentoring relationships are usually more beneficial when the mentor is in the same profession or industry.
In summary, both of these approaches will support an individual’s development.
I’m a huge advocate of both and believe that mentoring, in particular, is the gift we owe each other as we claim the proverbial ladder. We can help those coming behind us avoid the pitfalls and landmines ahead, navigate more deftly and get to where they want to without the bruises and war wounds we have.
Elsie Akinsanya
Author
Hope you’ve found this helpful in clarifying what you may wish to consider your next step. Please share widely.
Watch out for the rest of the articles in this series:
- June – How to select your coach for maximum impact?
- Aug – How to get the best from your coaching experience?
- Oct – I’ve had a coach – now what?