Coaching vs Mentoring: What’s the Difference and Which Is Right ?
At Circl, we’re passionate about coaching — because we’ve seen the transformational impact it can have on individuals, teams and entire organisations. But one question we hear all the time is: what’s the difference between coaching and mentoring?
The two are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same. Both support people to grow and succeed, but they do it in different ways. If you’re building an inclusive culture or looking to develop your team, it’s important to understand the distinctions — and which approach will help your people thrive.
In this guide, we’ll break down what coaching and mentoring really mean, how they differ, and how each one can benefit your business.
What is mentoring?
Mentoring is a relationship where a more experienced person supports someone with less experience in a specific field. The mentor shares knowledge, advice and guidance, helping their mentee navigate a career path or develop new skills.
Mentors draw from their own lived experience and may open doors through their network. It’s an excellent way to build confidence and learn from someone who’s “been there before”.
What is coaching?
Coaching is a structured, skills-based practice focused on helping individuals unlock their potential. Rather than giving advice, a coach asks powerful questions to help someone reflect, build awareness and find their own answers.
A coach doesn’t need experience in the coachee’s industry — their role is to empower, not instruct. Coaches help people move past limiting beliefs and take meaningful steps towards their goals.
Coaching vs Mentoring: Key Differences
In short:
A coach helps you find your own answers. A mentor gives you theirs.
Which one is right for your organisation?
It depends on what you want to achieve.
If you want to transfer knowledge, support new starters or build internal relationships, mentoring can be a great tool.
But if you’re looking to develop inclusive leadership, build confidence, and create a culture of autonomy and trust — coaching is more effective.
At Circl, we see coaching as one of the most powerful tools for developing future-focused teams. By training your managers to lead with empathy, ask better questions and truly listen, you create an inclusive environment where everyone feels heard, respected and empowered to grow.
Coaching with real-world impact: The Circl Programme
Our unique coaching and leadership programme equips your people with practical coaching skills and gives them the chance to apply them in a meaningful way — by coaching and being coached by underrepresented young people.
Your team will:
Learn to lead inclusively and effectively
Gain real-world coaching experience
Expand their perspective beyond the workplace
Make a measurable social impact
Want to see the benefits of coaching in action?