Coaching vs. Consulting: Why the Difference Matters and What to Look For in a Great Coach

Lately, I’ve seen a fair bit of confusion in conversations about what coaching actually is, particularly how it differs from consulting. It’s an important distinction, especially in a marketplace that’s become increasingly crowded, and where there’s a real need for credibility, depth, and impact in this work.

What’s a bicycle got to do with high-level thinking, growth, and decision-making??

Here’s how I explain the difference between consulting and coaching to clients using the idea of learning to ride a bicycle:

👉 A consultant gets on the bike and shows you how to ride it.

👉 A coach holds the bike, supports you as you find your own balance, and helps you ride it for yourself, confidently, and towards greater success, with lasting change and growth.

Which approach do you think leads to deeper learning, greater confidence, and more sustainable results?

A consultant gets on the bike and shows you how to ride it.  A coach holds the bike, supports you as you find your own balance, and helps you ride it for yourself, confidently, and towards greater success, with lasting change and growth.

The goal of coaching, at least the kind I practise, isn’t to give answers, in fact doing so would go against the ICF code of ethics, which I’m bound by. Coaching is built on the belief that the client holds the wisdom, and the coach’s role is to help unlock it. Coaches support their clients in reaching much deeper levels of self-understanding how their brain works, how their behaviours show up, and how they impact the world around them. All in service of the client achieving whatever success is for them.

Coaching is built on the belief that the client holds the wisdom, and the coach’s role is to help unlock it.

Yes, the coaching world has grown fast. Yes, with that comes a mix of brilliant, seasoned coaches and others who may not yet have the depth of experience, rigour, or business grounding that clients truly need. Unfortunately, there are also some charlatans out there with no credentials or experience.

If you're considering working with a coach, it's worth being discerning. Look for:

• Real-world business and leadership experience

• Credible (not Instagram) coaching credentials. e.g. ICF/EMCC

• A commitment to a recognised professional code of ethics, because safety, trust, and accountability matter in any coaching relationship

• A proven track record with the kinds of clients they specialise in. In my case, that’s founders, entrepreneurs, creators, innovators, and senior leaders who think differently and approach the world in unique ways

• And if you experience the world a little differently (including being neurodiverse like me), lived experience alongside credentials isn’t just helpful, it’s essential! Working with someone who truly understands how your mind works can make all the difference.

Great coaching isn’t just reflective, it’s transformative. I’ve worked Leaders through massive organisational change and with founders through scale-up, investment rounds, and successful exits, helping them navigate the pressure, uncertainty, and decision-making that come with big growth. The results speak for themselves. Coaching at this level creates meaningful change that lasts.

And when someone whose brain is wired differently works with a coach who truly gets it, the impact can be extraordinary. It unlocks not just performance, but confidence, clarity, and a whole new level of potential.

If you're curious about how coaching could support your thinking, growth or leadership, feel free to reach out. I'm always happy to have a conversation - no pressure, no pitch!

Curious to know more and reach out?

Contact Me     or go to my LinkedIn Profile