POWER-TO-CHANGE

10 to 15 years ago coaching was very much in its infancy. Now, however, I think that the word ‘coach’ is very much overused. More and more people are claiming to be coaches of one form or another so how do you know who or what is right for you and what is the difference between a coach, a consultant, a mentor and a counsellor? I’m sure that there are a lot of jokes about this later point so let’s start there.

I was actually a consultant before I became a coach and it was then that I read a great quote which really explained the difference to me. Unfortunately I can’t remember the source but the difference was explained by way of an example and it has stuck with me:

‘Say, you want to ride a bike. If you went to a consultant, they would help you to figure out which bike to buy; if you went to a therapist, they would get you over the fear of riding and get you on the bike; if you went to a mentor, they would show you how they ride a bike in order to teach you to do it the same way. However, if  you went to a coach, they will put you on the bike, help you to pedal, get you started and run alongside supporting you as you get the job done.’

On the other hand, the International Coaching Federation defines coaching as,

“Partnering with clients in a thought provoking and creative process that inspires them to maximize their personal and professional potential”.

Think about it, all best athletes have a coach to help them win medals so why shouldn’t you use a coach to help you be more successful? You can improve almost any situation with the right coaching.

The many categories of coaches with more specialist coaches appearing all the time. These coaches are all passionate about helping people and with so many around, you will be able to find one that is right for you.

So how do you choose? Click on the link to read my 7 tips for choosing a good coach

 

‘What makes a good coach? Complete dedication.’

 - George Halas