Project Management Leadership: Building Creative Teams, 2nd Edition

Chapter 17

Coaching and Mentoring

Learning Outcomes

After reading this chapter you should be able to:

• Identify the key features of coaching and mentoring.
• Plan a simple coaching or mentoring session.
• Know what constitutes effective feedback.

Both coaching and mentoring are processes that enable team members to achieve their full potential. Though there are many similarities between the two approaches, there are also some important distinctions.

Coaching and mentoring share a facilitative approach, where the focus is on the needs of the person, assisting them through a process of lasting change. Specifically, the focus is usually on developing performance through attention to the person’s needs, goals, desires and/or motivation, and progression towards achievement. There are some helpful processes that can help the coach or mentor to investigate a person’s situation in an appropriate manner.

Coaching and mentoring styles have been shown to effectively support people through organizational change initiatives and some conflict situations by helping them to accept and adapt to changes whilst maintaining their personal values and goals. Also, coaching and mentoring can enhance morale, motivation and productivity as individuals feel valued. They provide a two-way relationship with both the organization and the team member gaining significant benefits.

Mentoring is usually provided by a more senior person, older and wiser, who provides advice based on experience. Mentors pass on ...