Coaching continues to grow as a profession and is gaining ever more popularity because it works. This series is a broad overview of coaching, how it works, different types and approaches, and coaching relationships. The examples are to provide awareness and insight based on coaching competencies.
What is coaching? The definition from the International Coach Federation is: “partnering with clients in a thought-provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential.”
What isn’t coaching?
- Coaching is not mentoring. A mentor is a voice of wisdom and experience passing on what they know and giving advice. In comparison, a coach provides a process expertise and thereby elicits the answer from the client.
- Coaching is not consulting. A consultant is an expert that is brought in to analyze, develop a plan, and advise. In comparison, a coach serves as a sounding board and strategy partner so the client explores possibilities and creates their plan of action.
- Coaching is not a mental health service. A mental health professional works to restore an individual to wellness. In comparison, a coach works with an individual that is well and whole to consider what they want and move forward toward their goals.
