Ask a Mentor: Who Should I Ask for Help?

Edited by Sandra Kleinsasser

I’m confused about whether I need a mentor or a coach to help me with some career questions and work/life issues. What’s the difference and who’s right for me?

There may not be an either/or answer to this question, as many folks call on both coaches and mentors at different times in their careers. A mentor is typically someone who may be your employer, a professional colleague or a friend who is committed to helping you succeed. He or she will provide a listening ear and guide you through your career decisions, work challenges or personal issues, usually based on their own experiences. WCA mentors, for example, are volunteers who have all levels of experience as communicators and are willing to give you time, honesty and opinions because they share a commitment to giving back while juggling their own careers.

On the other hand, a professional coach is someone whose business is providing counsel to others and you will pay them for their services. Fortunately, WCA counts a number of professional coaches in its membership. As independent businesswomen, they will differ in their offerings, certifications, methods and expertise. Their contacts are in the Members list.

Here is some input from WCA members active in both areas.

A fresh perspective

If you are breathing, chances are you need a mentor. Everyone, at all ages and stages of life, could stand to hear feedback and guidance (even if you don’t agree with it). A fresh perspective can help you to think through your ideas and plans, inspire you to start something new, or to help make your current work more meaningful. In addition, having a trusted advisor with no ties to your business or workplace will not only help your viewpoint, but broaden your circle of influence, and potentially, your job prospects.

— Glenda Beasley, Women Communicators of Austin VP Career Services and Senior
Marketing Director, Association of Texas Professional Educators

Accountability

The biggest difference between a professional coach and a mentor is accountability. Working with a coach is a formal partnership to work toward a common vision or goal over a specified period of time. A mentor may provide feedback or support, but it is typically offered in a less formal and more sporadic, as needed fashion. Many professionals are not familiar with how working with a coach can benefit you. Here is our February newsletter on how working with a seasoned career coach can help you achieve your career/life goals. I personally recommend professionals utilize the support of coaches, when needed, as well as mentors. The most important thing is that people have a robust personal and professional support network and understand the value of this.

—Renee Peterson Trudeau, president Career Strategists and Renee Trudeau &
Associates, and March 19 WCA luncheon speaker

We’re Here to Help

Need some career advice? Wondering how others have handled a situation? Got a question or comment for our mentors? Contact us at wcamentors@wcaustin.org. Our volunteers are glad to help. Confidentiality will be respected.