What is the difference to coaching?

Coaching and mentoring are more similar than they are different. They are both developmental dialogues and use the same skills of listening, questioning, giving feedback etc., therefore they are often used interchangeably. Coaching is normally an assignment focused on behaviour and performance in a current role, with a shorter-term focus. The coach, mostly an external professional, helps the coachee achieve their goals and realize their potential, mostly in a period of change. Mentoring is a relationship with a focus on career self-management and longer-term development (6 to 12 months). Mentors are mostly internal experts.

For more see “Differences and Overlaps of Mentoring and Coaching”.