Coaching: There are many definitions for coaching. One simple definition is: Coaching is a one-on-one trusting relationship with someone who facilitates and guides an individual to achieve results in their life. Coaches have been described as a “secret power” by Fortune and “invaluable” by Time magazines. Business owners routinely report increased retention, productivity, sales, and customer satisfaction after engaging and working with a coach. Individuals who work with a coach report greater life satisfaction, higher levels of productivity, less stress, and increased levels of life satisfaction. The emphasis in a coaching relationship is on action, accountability and follow-through.
How is Coaching distinct from other disciplines?
Each discipline differs from the other based on many factors. Ultimately, the individual or the organization has a situation that needs to be addressed, e.g. performance, career, attitude, leadership, life style and more. When people want help, they want to work with a professional that can best help them find solutions for the problem or situation.
Mentor: A mentor is an expert who shares wisdom, support, learning or guidance for the purpose of career growth and business goals. They offer advice and experiences to help individuals reach their objectives.
Consultant: Usually an expert in a given field and will diagnose problems and prescribe or at times implement solutions. A consultant will often set the goals for the person or the organization and put a system in place to achieve them. Outcomes are based on their area of expertise.
Therapist/Counselor: The focus if often on resolving difficulties arising from the past that hamper an individual’s emotional and functioning in the present. The emphasis is on diagnosis, analysis or healing and dealing with the present in more emotionally healthy ways
Individual Contributors: Coaching those targeted for growth in the organization is an effective method of personal and professional development. Coaching is a method that develops and retains high potential individuals.Executives and Managers: Coaching different levels within the organizational structure has been shown to be an effective approach to inspire and develop leaders.
Executives and managers report decreased stress and increased levels of confidence and support.
Organizations: More and more, organizations turn to coaching individuals and teams. The investment returns improved performance for the individual and higher profits and competitive edge for the company. This is what companies reported in a survey of over 4000 organizations by the International Coach Federation and Linkage, Inc. who were asked about their interest and involvement in corporate coaching.