Coaching and Mentoring

Coaching and mentoring draw on powerful questioning in one-to-one discussions to enrich an individual’s skills, knowledge and work performance to reach their full potential. Although in practice the two terms are often confused, it is possible to draw distinctions between coaching and mentoring. Have you ever had the question in your mind… Mentor vs Coach?

What is Mentoring?

Mentoring is a partnership between two people based on mutual respect and trust to facilitate the transfer of experience, knowledge and insights. The Mentor and Mentee relationship offers reciprocal benefits to those willing to invest their time. Having a Mentor, someone who can guide and advise and who you can talk with freely, will make career journey smoother and more enjoyable. Mentors are essential to career success, and if you find a Mentor that is right, the experience is invaluable.

How does Mentoring differ from Coaching?

A Coach knows how to ask great questions so that the Coachee can discover and learn for themselves. A Mentor knows how to answer many great questions from the Mentee and pass on their experience. Mentors offer non-judgmental support as a positive role model and focus on the Mentee’s longer term personal development. Mentors create a safe environment to share their wisdom, learnings, tools and challenge the Mentee. The Mentor and Mentee relationship may be formally assessed and internal Mentoring programs could be connected to job advancement or personal improvement.

Organisational Mentoring Programs:

• Develop or enhance organisational knowledge and skills
• Foster a culture of growth and leadership
• Identify emerging talent
• Create a positive work environment
• Demonstrate the organisation values employees
• Foster the achievement of professional goals
• Offer guidance and encouragement to multiple tiers of management

You may benefit from a Coach, Mentor or both. Spectra can help you identify what you need most and point you in the right direction.