In introductory meetings I often find myself explaining the difference between coaching and mentoring. Coaching is not always the right intervention and there are definitely times when I suggest an executive might benefit more from working with an advisor or mentor.
A recent conversation with a prospective coaching client prompted me to write this blog post, explaining why they are both valuable approaches … with quite different purposes.
ICF aligned* Executive Coaching is a professional, evidence-based developmental partnership that strengthens how leaders think, decide, and show up.
Executive Advising/Mentoring is experience-based guidance that offers recommendations and lessons learned from someone who has walked the path before.
ICF-Aligned* Executive Coaching
Most useful when:
– Navigating complexity or organisational change
– Developing leadership identity and presence
– Strengthening emotional intelligence and decision-making
– Building long-term capability
Purpose: Development
Focuses on expanding the leader’s capacity, clarity, and long-term effectiveness.
Stance: Partner
Non-directive, non-hierarchical; the coach is a thinking partner.
Method: Evidence-Based
Grounded in ICF Core Competencies, reflective practice, and structured methodology.
Focus: The Leader’s Thinking
Explores patterns, identity, blind spots, and decision-making.
Session Style: Client-Led
Co-created conversations that evoke insight and build capability.
Impact: Transformational
Identity-level shifts, increased emotional intelligence, stronger leadership presence.
Outcome: Builds the Leader
Develops long-term leadership maturity and effectiveness.
Executive Advising/Mentoring
Most useful when:
– Needing quick answers or situational guidance
– Facing challenges the advisor has personally solved
– Seeking industry-specific insights or shortcuts
Purpose: Direction
Focuses on providing guidance, recommendations, and lessons learned from experience.
Stance: Expert
Directive, experience-led; the advisor is the authority sharing expertise.
Method: Experience-Based
Grounded in personal experience, industry knowledge, and prescriptive advice.
Focus: The Advisor’s Experience
Shares stories, shortcuts, and solutions from past roles.
Session Style: Advisor-Led
Guidance shaped by the advisor’s background and expertise.
Impact: Transactional
Faster decisions, situational solutions, avoidance of common pitfalls.
Outcome: Guides the Decision
Provides answers and direction for immediate challenges.
* The International Coaching Federation (ICF) is the world’s leading professional organization for coaching.