I am often asked: ?What is the difference between coaching and mentorship??
The short answer: coaching is a formal relationship based on skill development, that is process driven and results oriented. Mentorship on the other hand, is informal, exchanging information and sharing life experience.
Here is a quick chart for reference:
Coaching
Formal business relationship
Specific term or duration
Specific dates/times to meet
Results oriented
Individual or team
Trained or Certified
Mentorship
Informal personal relationship
Usually no time limit
No set schedule
Sharing information
Individual
Life experience
Many articles have been written on creating a distinction between the two different types of relationships and yet one has to recognize that the skills required for each are very similar, if not the same and both are equally important to an individuals journey for success:
- listening skills
- empathy
- decision making and flexibility
- open communication
- problem solving
- leadership
- negotiation, to name a few?
Each relationship is built on trust and respect, building confidence that contributes to personal and professional development. One relationship may support the other at different times throughout a career and be just as important to their overall journey for success.
From my point of view, it is not the definition that is important but rather finding the right connection that will create a foundation for achieving results.
