Many people use the terms mentor, coach, sponsor, advisor and manager interchangeably. In fact, I use to do the same…until I did some research and began my journey to share what I’ve learned and empower you to capitalize on the value of mentoring.
Before you think about whether you need a mentor or a coach, let’s first understand the fundamental differences:
Mentoring is a two-way mutually beneficial learning situation where the mentor provides advice, shares knowledge and experiences. It is low pressure and not tied to performance expectations. Mentors are both a source of information/knowledge and someone who helps the mentee.
Sponsors are typically in the same company or industry and they “Champion” you and your success. As an advocate for you, your sponsor might volunteer or nominate you for advancement.
Coaches provide direct advice on ideas and approaches and it is typically not a “mutual” learning environment. A coach is generally paid, whereas a mentor is usually making a voluntary commitment. Good coaches are professionally trained, qualified and often certified.
Professional Counselors typically have a master's degree or a doctorate degree and provide guidance, therapy and advice for individuals who have troubling, but often serious needs.
When considering coach vs mentor, here are a few questions you can ask yourself:
Are you looking to build a specific skill/competency (Coaching) or are you looking for broader development for your current job as well as preparing for your future (Mentoring)?
Are you looking for a short-term engagement (Coaching) or a longer-term relationship (Mentoring)?
Here is a nice comparison chart I found at pediaa.com. And a few other articles you can reference if you want to read more on the differences: Management Mentors and KeyDifferences.com.
Simplified: “A coach has some great questions for your answers; a mentor has some great answers for your questions” (source unknown).
If you decide you want to find a mentor; but don’t know where to start, shoot me an email info@KJCompany.net to request a copy of my 4-step process to find and build a mentoring relationship. Also visit my website to learn more about how to elevate your capabilities and your career through mentoring.