Executive Coaching

Coaching, sometimes called Business or Executive Coaching, has become increasingly popular in recent years as a tool for developing the skills and knowledge of individuals. It is often used as a short-term intervention focusing on specific goals and areas for development.

What is coaching?

Is it the same as mentoring? Is it the same as counselling?

It can sometimes be difficult to pinpoint an exact definition for coaching that is distinct from mentoring and counselling, as there are inevitably areas of overlap.

Coaching is aimed at developing specific skills and knowledge to improve an individual’s performance to allow them to perform better in their job and achieve the goals they have set. Goals can be individual or organisational goals. The emphasis is on work performance but may inevitably involve the discussion of personal issues also. Coaching is a skilled activity and is most effective when delivered by trained individuals. It provides feedback on the strengths and weaknesses of the individual and supports him or her in finding appropriate ways forward rather than directing the individual to a particular course of action.

Mentoring is a term often used in conjunction with, or in place of coaching. It typically describes a situation where a more experienced colleague uses their greater knowledge, influence and understanding to support the development of a less experienced employee.

Whereas counselling can overlap coaching, it is more often used to support individuals through personal or social issues that are causing them difficulty or distress.

Benefits of Coaching:

Coaching can bring many benefits to an individual and their organisation. It is just one of many different types of development interventions that can be used, and so the preferences of the organisation and individual, the type of skill/knowledge to be developed, and the resources available should all be considered when deciding on the best way to help an individual develop.

When used appropriately the benefits of coaching can include:
• Achievement of individual and strategic objectives
• Improved confidence and interpersonal skills
• Provides a structured process
• Increased self-awareness
• Improved employee engagement, retention and productivity
• Increased effectiveness

How do I get a Coach?

Many organisations and independent consultants offer coaching as a service, but this rarely comes cheap. Some employers have internally trained coaches that can be called upon to assist with developing other employees. If you are currently in work, you may find that your employer has links to organisations offering coaching that they have previously used.

If you are currently not working or wish to have access to a coach outside of your workplace there are a number options open to you, including:

  • An internet search on coaching will give you a wide range of organisations to approach. Some providers will offer an initial session for free, and some offer e-coaching for a reduced price than face-to-face sessions
  • Increasing your existing network to include people with the skills/knowledge you are looking to develop, Business Link give advice on Learning through Networking with Others, click here
  • Asking a contact that you admire to act as a coach for you. Make sure you are really clear what you wish to get out of the relationship and choose your person wisely. It is always worthwhile discussing how long the coaching relationship should last from the outset. This may change later, but coaching should be for a specific purpose or goal that can be focused on for a specific time period


You could also visit the Coaching and Mentoring Network website to access information on coaching, latest development, discussion forums and search a network of coaches offering a variety of coaching services and support.

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