What is Coaching

Coaching and /or Mentoring happens inside or outside of the workplace.

The term "coach" or "mentor" is used to describe all types of coaching/mentoring that may be taking place, both inside and outside the work environment. COMENSA recognises that there are many types of coaching/mentoring taking place and these will need to be defined as more detailed standards are produced.

Coaching is about creating change that helps enhances performance and learning. Coaches emphasise new competencies, learning and goal attainment. In fact, a coach is a personal navigator for the journey of life, focusing on what the clients want. Everything in coaching hinges on listening with the client's agenda in mind.

COMENSA defines coaching as "a professional, collaborative and outcomes-driven method of learning that seeks to develop an individual and raise self-awareness so that he or she might achieve specific goals and perform at a more effective level".

Coaching has been shown to help leaders develop a clearer understanding of their roles and responsibilities. When leaders are more confident about what they need to do, they are better able to motivate employees and mobilise them for action.