What Is The Difference Between a Coach and a Mentor?

By November 29, 2011 March 28th, 2012 LIFE

Which ever path you choose to find your success is just that, it’s your path and your success. The same rule applies for everyone else. I see so many experts and gurus telling us how they think we should find success and then criticize others for choosing a different path. That is not constructive for anyone and nor should you listen to it. Whether you are a business owner with a bricks and mortar store, online store, you work for someone, or you stay at home and look after your children, if that is your success and your path then I couldn’t be happier for you and will help and support you in any way I can. What path and success worked for me, doesn’t mean you should do the same or similar. Nor did I follow someone else’s path, which doesn’t mean that’s wrong either. You see it’s easy to judge and perceive things in a way that boosts our egos but who does it serve?

Over time you may have heard mentors and coaches spruik about how they are fabulous and you should listen to what they say. Each one believing they are superior. Both mentors and coaches play a significant role in business and it’s just a matter of working out which one resonates with you. A good mentor understands that it is never about us; it’s about you and aligning yourself with the right person, ensuring you get to where you want to go.

What is the difference between a mentor and a coach? In a nut shell a business coach has been taught how to maximise business for a massive growth while a mentor has learnt and lived through their own experience having owned and ran businesses.

 

MENTOR

COACH

FOCUS

Individual

Performance

ROLE

Facilitator with flexible agenda

Specific agenda

SOURCE

Life/Business

Task Related

Which is better for you?

If you like:
Qualifications, guidelines, structure in a learning environment, as well as working from the inside and out then go with a business coach.

If you like:
Someone who has been in your shoes therefore understands your journey and some of the stresses and successes then go with a mentor. They usually have had life experience like a tragedy to triumph scenario.

No one is better then the next and everyone has incredible information to share.

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