Mentoring is less formal and less intense than coaching. Mentoring gives you someone to bounce ideas off and seek suggestions, however it usually doesn’t provide the opportunity for the mentor to remain “up to speed” with the weekly situation on an on-going basis like a coaching relationship does. The responsibility lies with the customer to approach us when assistance is needed.

Mentoring is great if someone is already performing well in the role as business owner on a daily basis but is periodically seeking guidance on particular issues or decisions. If knowledge and advice is being sought, rather than accountability and motivation, then mentoring is likely the better option.