Common Forms of Professional Collaboration
Let’s review some common forms of professional collaboration, so there is a clear understanding of how executive coaching is different. There are many forms of help that may come our way. Within our work environment, help make come as a consultant, in which an expert is asked to review and render an opinion or give recommendations for change or management. A mentor may share their wealth of knowledge and experience with you to help guide you forward. Within your personal life, a therapist may help you as you as you work through and address items from your past.
- Though some people may think that coaching is meant to help clients who are underachieving, have sub-optimal performance, or have difficulty in working with others, the exact opposite is true.
- Coaching is a form of professional development. Individuals wanting to improve their skill level, identify obstacles that may be holding them back, gain clarity on specific ways to approach these challenges and obtain insight into a deeper understanding of themselves, should consider coaching as tool to help them achieve this.
- Consider a pole vaulter. The coach and coaching are the pole. The pole vaulter uses this “tool” and their own strengths to help them achieve their goals and reach a higher level.
How is Coaching Different?
| Consulting | Mentoring | Therapy | Coaching |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provide situational analysis | Help the Less Experienced | Patient/Client Seeks Healing | Client is Seen as Highly Functional |
| Provides Expert Opinions and Recommendations | Serves as a Resource | Focus is on Past Events and Problems | Focuses on Possibilities and the Future |
| Provides Solutions and Implementation Strategies | Gives Advice and Opinions | Explores the Root Cause of the Problem | Helpful Questioning Evokes Personal Awareness |
| Self-Determined Goals and Self-Directed Problem Solving |
Executive Coaching
Executive Coaching differs from these other professions previously mentioned. It is an investment in your future. The coach’s goal is to work with you-the client to:
- identify and align with your goals.
- assist you in developing deep self-reflection, awareness, and motivation.
- support you as you generate your strategies and game plan for moving forward.
- provide follow up and accountability to further help support the achievement of that forward motion.
Your executive coach will help you to see your positives, your strengths and how those can be harnessed and leveraged for your ultimate personal growth.