Coaching & Mentoring

What is coaching and mentoring?



  • Observe, listen and ask questions to understand the client’s situation
  • Creatively apply tools and techniques which may include one-to-one training, facilitating & networking.

Mark has enabled me to clarify my top ten values

I had the opportunity to work with Mark Coburn in his capacity as a Business Coach. Mark filled this role extremely well, as he brought a broad range of experience to the table, plus his extensive skills in Project Planning and Management. What impressed me the most about Mark’s work was that he enabled me to clarify my top ten values. He challenged me in a totally supportive atmosphere enabling me to work through a number of business and life issues which means that I now have a more balanced relationship with myself, my wife and my family. I am very grateful for Mark’s proactive approach in guiding me with making distinctions and better decisions in my life.

Dr. John A. Hinwood Dip.P.E.(Syd), D.C. (Canada), Cert. L.C., FAIM
Powerful Practices - Gold Coast, Australia

What is the difference between coaching and mentoring?

As can be seen above, there are many similarities between coaching and mentoring.




Why is coaching and mentoring so popular?

Many people are tired of doing what they think they should, and are ready to live lives that are special and meaningful to them. However, although dissatisfied, many are un clear on how to change careers or even what it is they want to do next. A coach or mentor will support them to do both.

Our coaches and mentors have a large tool kit for the 'big idea' to become a reality, and people are realising how simple it can be to accomplish something that previously might have felt out of reach or a 'pipedream' .

Many individuals are now committing time and investing resources in themselves to achieve this kind of positive growth. Although technology has allowed people to share information more effectively, it has been at the expense of personal interaction.

The decrease of personal interaction due to the increasing use of technology has meant that the few relationships we now have, need to be deeper and more meaningful to fulfil us. This also includes a deeper connection with ourselves.

Life, business, corporate or executive coach / mentor ... which one do I choose?
While coaches may come from various backgrounds, there are basically three types: a corporate/executive coach, a business coach and a life coach. Sometimes coaches see themselves as mentors, too.

So what is the difference? A business coach or mentor collaborates with the managers and/or owners of small companies to ensure people work on their business rather than just in it.

In contrast, executive and life coaches/mentors work to develop individuals rather than businesses. These coaches and mentors may work one-on-one or with groups.

A life coach works in a more holistic fashion to help develop people's personal and interpersonal skills and set in place strategies to achieve both career and life goals. In many ways the work of both executive and life coaches/mentors can overlap.

I'm doing OK ... why would I need a coach or mentor?

Many successful sports and business people have a coach because they know their road to success will be easier and more effective. A coach is emotionally detached from the client's goal by focusing on the 'now'. In many cases this enables the coach to more quickly and clearly identify areas and issues that are hindering the client's progress.

This means that the client achieves their goal faster with less frustration and more enjoyment.

Our coaches understand the value of coaching and consequently, experience improvements in their lives by also employing a coach.

Coaches are for anyone interested in a living a better life than they currently are or want more success in their business. If you are 'doing OK', just imagine having more fun and success in everything you do.

How is coaching and mentoring different from consulting or counselling?

Unlike consulting, 'true' coaching and mentoring does not supply advice. A coach will sometimes share an experience that can be related to, or a possible way to address an issue but this should not be mistaken for advice. A coach or mentor commits to support the client in implementing new skills, making changes and achieving goals.

Coaching and mentoring is not counselling. The focus of the coaching and mentoring relationship is largely action-based. However, if a personal barrier arises for the client which prevents them from moving towards their goal, an effective coach or mentor has the ability to decide whether they are capable of working through the client's personal issue or whether a counsellor is required.

Many coaching relationships involve an element of counselling but this is distinct from the services offered by a professional counselling service. Professional counsellors deal with personal issues in much greater depth than would generally be explored within a coaching context.

What makes our coaches and mentors different?

We believe it is not enough to simply plan strategies and goals with clients. To be a successful coach in the new millennium, it is essential to deeply understand, empathise and connect with clients.

Our coaches and mentors have invested a substantial amount of time in their extensive growth process by examining, designing and creating their 'own ideal lifestyle'. We take a three-dimensional approach, unlike many other similar organisations that simply teach information. Our coaches and mentors understand and connect with clients at a deep level, which supports the client tapping into their own brilliance.

When our coaches and mentors are working with you, you can be assured that they maintain the highest level of confidentiality and support you with total compassion and commitment. They are completely dedicated to assist you in uncovering your gifts, talents and your reason for being. They will guide you in designing and creating your life with purpose, passion, success and happiness. Just take a minute to imagine yourself on a journey of self-discovery, seeing all that you are capable of and becoming the person you truly want to be.

How long do I need to commit to coaching or mentoring until I see results?

It depends on the desired outcomes, the person being coached, how frequent the coaching or mentoring is, is it life, business, corporate or executive coaching or mentoring, and many other factors. This will be discussed with you when our coach or mentor initially meets with you. As a very general rule, you can expect to get a true measure of results and benefit within 10 sessions, provided there is genuine commitment from the client to make a positive difference to their situation.

If you would like us to contact you about our coaching or mentoring services, just leave your contact details below: