Often, the words 'coach' and 'mentor' are used interchangeably, as though they have the same definition. In reality, there is a clear difference between the two.

A coach is a professional whose specific training and expertise relate to personal development, decision making and planning. Often a coach is a skilled authority concerning a particular industry, competency or subject.

Coaching is a procedure, based on inquiry; utilising specific tools such as laser and other types of questioning designed to narrowly focus a client's self-discovery and decision-making processes.

The client / coach relationship is objective, working on the complete person rather than focussing solely on what the client is already doing. There is a strong emphasis on the future. planning for the achievement of goals, dreams and ambitions. The life coach's responsibility is the provision of support and structure, within a consulting context.

A mentor is generally expert in a field or industry, who usually acts as an internal advisor within an organisation. In the majority of cases this is done on a professional level with the aim of advancing the mentored person's career. Generally, a mentor has seniority within the relationship, either in age, experience or position they hold within an organisation.

Mentors commonly have a pre-determined method based on the processes which have worked for them, without necessarily considering the strengths, values and perceptions of the people they are working with. As such, the mentor tends to provide solutions and answers to the person they are supporting, instead of questions designed to challenge behaviours and perceptions.

Often, mentors are not trained, offering guidance based on personal experience and opinions rather than their competency as a guide.