Coaching is
the relationship between a person who wants change (client) and
a guide, a mentor, a facilitator (the coach). The relationship
is centered around the client's agenda and is focused entirely
on getting the results the client wants.
A consultant
often brings specialized solutions and usually sets the agenda. A
coach has no agenda and brings the skills required to help a client articulate their dreams, desires,
aspirations, to help them to clarify their mission, purpose and goals
and to help them achieve a fulfilling outcome.
The effectiveness
of coaching comes from the power granted by the client to the
coaching relationship; it's about trust.
Coaching is
not about "just getting things done". The product of
coaching is action and learning.
Personal and Business Coaching is a relatively new profession formalized by international organizations that establish accreditation standards and codes of ethics.
The links below will take you to the sites of two such organizations where you can learn about their standards and ethics. I'm a member of the International Association of Coaches (IAC).
