How Is The Coaching Approach Different Than Consulting?

In general, a consultant is a problem solver who brings special expertise whenever or wherever expertise is needed. A consultant assesses the situation by asking questions that will inform the consultant, who is then expected to create specific proposals or plans for the solution. The consultant is expected to convey a solution to their client, then instruct, advise and direct the client about how to reach that solution. The consultant usually provides a clearly outlined agenda and will often define the goals and priorities. The consultant may even do the work for the client, taking the lead in moving action forward. This directive approach is extremely useful as needed.

Coaching is not therapy. Therapy focuses on the past and on understanding why something happened. Coaching starts with the present and puts attention on the client's current desires or needs, that may amongst other things, require making personal shifts towards a more productive, fruitful future, with a focus on ongoing action. Sometimes coaching can feel therapeutic, primarily because personal growth is occurring. A coach also provides a safe and open environment where the client doesn't need to focus on "looking good" but can focus on what their real behaviors and limitations are, and from this truth, make real changes designed to "improve" who they are, how the way they go about there work and personal lives. Questions that a coach will ask, generally start with "what, how, who, when, where", moving the client from knowing to sustainable action. The coach provides support, reassurance, and encouragement, calling on the client to make their challenges more attractive and engaging, while growing who they are in the process.