Mentoring

Mentoring and other forms of helping

Mentoring is sometimes linked with other forms of helping, such as counselling or coaching. There are many overlaps between them. All are concerned with learning, but there are (sometimes subtle) differences.

Coaching usually refers to a relationship in which a coach helps an individual to improve specific aspects of performance, by developing techniques and motivation. The coach may be a line manager and may set the agenda. It typically addresses a short-term need.

Counselling usually refers to a supportive relationship in which a counsellor helps another to help him or herself to understand and cope with the demands of their life.

Mentoring may involve some counselling, but it is different in its aim of primarily encouraging work-related learning. Mentoring may also involve some coaching, but goes beyond it in its aim of improving performance generally, rather than improving specific aspects of performance.