The Difference Between a Coach and a Mentor

The terms ‘Coaching’ and ‘Mentoring’ are interchangeably used. In both an individual and organisational context, they are similar in a lot of ways. It’s important however to distinguish the difference between them.

Both involve having purposeful conversations that support someone’s performance, growth and development. Executive Coaches are increasingly using principles from both approaches. Coaches and mentors have shared tools in their skillset, so what is the difference between them?

We asked our Executive Coach and Facilitator, Maria Banks, CPCC, to guide us through the difference between a coach and a mentor. With over 20 years in the coaching and mentoring spaces, Maria knows how both use questioning and listening techniques to raise awareness and encourage responsibilities.