You know you need support. Someone suggests a coach. Someone else says find a mentor. They sound similar, and they cost very different amounts.
Here’s the plain difference.
Mentoring
A mentor has done what you’re trying to do. They share what worked for them, open doors and tell you what they’d do in your shoes. It’s often informal and sometimes free.
Good for: industry know-how, introductions and avoiding known mistakes.
Watch for: their path may not fit your life.
Coaching
A coach helps you think clearly about your own business. They ask questions, help you decide, and hold you to what you said you’d do. A business coach also brings structure: plans, numbers, priorities.
Good for: decisions, focus, accountability and redesigning how the business runs.
Watch for: coaching isn’t regulated in the UK, so ask good questions before you buy.
Which one now?
- Stuck on how things are done in your industry? A mentor.
- Stuck on what to do next, or doing too much of everything? A coach.
- Both? Many women have one of each.
What to ask any coach
- Who do you usually work with?
- How do sessions work, and what happens between them?
- What training or supervision do you have?
- What won’t you help with?
A good coach answers all four easily.
How Carlene works
If you’d like steady monthly support, Pocket Partnership (from £247/mo) is coaching with Carlene that fits a full diary.
Which do you need more right now: someone’s path, or your own clarity?
Thank you for taking the time to read. Stay tuned for more!
