Coaching or management training - what is the difference?
13 Sep 2006
When faced with the task of developing the skills, motivation, effectiveness and performance of our key people which of these 2 different approaches should we choose and what are the factors for us to consider?
Management training usually brings a group of people together with the aim of them acquiring some specific new knowledge, skills or techniques that they can apply in their day job.
To a large extent the sponsoring organisation sets the agenda and usually has a clear idea of the outcomes and effect that it would like the participants to achieve. The training usually takes place in a "classroom" setting but often in custom built off site training centres or hotels. The links to individual development needs, attitudes and personal performance exist but the emphasis is as much on the group as the individual.
Coaching takes the form of a series of one to one sessions between the subject and a coach. It focusses more on the specific individual needs of the person rather than those chosen by the Organisation. It takes place where the subject is able to feel relaxed and will not be disturbed or interrupted. The sessions are more personal - there is no escape and no doubt about who the focus is on. Sessions usually lead to an action plan for the subject about their job or work related subjects that they work on between sessions. The focus is on improving performance and satisfaction at or outside work in areas that are important to the coachee. It requires the subject to want to take responsibility for their job and success and is more of a learning than teaching process.
Deciding between these 2 approaches is not a black and white choice of one versus the other. They both have a lot to offer and it is more question of the attitude, experience and personal motivation of the subject and the overall objectives of the Organisation.
Management training in general is more suited to less experienced, rapidly developing managers who are still acquiring the basic skills of becoming an effective manager - in an Organisation which has a clear idea of what it is trying to achieve.
Coaching may suit the more experienced, higher level manager, in a one off role with significant responsibility and choices about how best to deal with complex situations.
However there is no hard and fast rule for these distinctions and if you are struggling with this dilemma then please feel free to contact us.
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