What's the Difference between coaching and mentoring?
The terms coaching and mentoring are often used interchangeably, especially in organisations. It’s easy to see why, as they share many tools and qualities. In fact, some writers argue there are more similarities than differences.
But there are some key distinctions that can help you decide what kind of support might best serve you right now.
Defining coaching
“Coaching is the art of facilitating the development, learning and enhanced performance of another.”
— Hill, 2004
At CoMotion, our coaching approach is rooted in transformational coaching, which:
“…seeks to help clients become aware of the internal beliefs, assumptions, and patterns that shape their current reality — and to choose more empowering ways of being, thinking and acting.”
— Doug Silsbee, 2008
Defining mentoring
“Mentoring is to support and encourage people to manage their own learning in order that they may maximise their potential, develop their skills, improve their performance and become the person they want to be.”
— Parsloe & Leedham, 2009
Similarities between coaching and mentoring
Both coaching and mentoring involve deep listening, powerful questioning, shared reflection and often a shift in mindset or behaviour. Both are forward-focused and goal-oriented, whether you're working towards a promotion, becoming more confident in meetings or navigating change at work.
And often a blend of coaching and mentoring is what works best — combining practical support with deeper personal development.
When Is Coaching the right fit?
Coaching is typically a shorter-term, focused process designed to support you in working towards a specific outcome. A coach will help you explore what’s getting in the way, what’s possible and how to move forward with clarity and intention.
It’s especially helpful when:
- You’re navigating change
- You have a goal but feel unsure how to reach it
- You want to build confidence or break through a mindset block
At CoMotion, we often work with coaching clients over a series of 3–6 sessions, depending on their needs.
When might mentoring be more helpful?
Mentoring tends to be a longer-term relationship, with the mentor offering guidance, perspective, and support as you explore different aspects of your work and growth.
It can be especially helpful when:
- You want to reflect on long-term career development
- You’re exploring questions around purpose, identity, or leadership
- You’d benefit from hearing someone else’s lived experience
Mentoring is often led by you, the mentee — you bring the questions or challenges, and together you explore what might be helpful.
Real Life examples of coaching and mentoring
Nichola’s Story: Confidence through coaching
Nichola had recently stepped into a new role but was feeling the impact of imposter syndrome. In coaching sessions with Caroline, they focused on clarifying what success looked like for her and where her confidence had gone quiet.
Over focused sessions in our 'Transform' program, Nichola rebuilt her self-belief, reconnected to her values, and began approaching work with more clarity and purpose. She left coaching feeling more aligned and empowered.
Rose’s Story: Clarity through mentoring
Rose came to mentoring with a number of themes she wanted to explore — her five-year plan, how to approach the transition toward retirement, how to bring more meaning into her work, and how to have greater impact.
Over eight sessions with Faye, they explored each area and uncovered the links between them. Rose said the experience was “empowering and thought-provoking.” She felt clearer about her direction and more confident to start key conversations at work.
How CoMotion Combines Coaching and Mentoring
At CoMotion, we believe there’s no one-size-fits-all. Our team brings lived experience from leadership roles in HR, finance, operations, and strategy — combined with qualifications in coaching and mentoring, including transformational coaching.
This means we can tailor support to where you are now and where you want to go — whether you're looking for short-term clarity or longer-term exploration. We also offer ongoing peer support and coaching tools through our online community platform, so the support doesn’t end when the session does.
Which is right for you – or your team?
You don’t need to have it all figured out. If you’re curious about how coaching or mentoring might help you — whether as an individual or part of a team — you can book a free 1:1 call with Faye or Caroline. We’d love to hear your story and help you find the next step.
To discuss coaching or mentoring for yourself or your team then click here to arrange a call with Caroline