Coaching focuses on the client's internal skills and on helping them identify and improve those skills. Consultants, on the other hand, focus on the problem that requires immediate attention. This often means that a consultant's work is more data-driven and that results are easier to quantify. While a business consultant focuses more on providing guidance, a business consultant offers specific solutions for your specific challenges.
Think of a consultant as a “subject matter expert with sleeves rolled up.” Similar to how you hire an accountant to manage your taxes, a good business advisor understands the challenging environment that comes with running a growing business. What I personally like about business coaching is that it's not a one-sided conversation, but rather a collaboration between the experience of the owner and the coach. If you're a consultant and want to add coaching skills to your business, the certified competent coach course is perfect for you. This is the business owner who would most benefit from a business advisor, as he can provide you with the guidance and support you need to become successful business leaders.
Business coaching isn't a series of therapy sessions on a comfortable couch where you explore all your feelings about life.
