Coaching vs Consulting: What's the Difference?

When people start lookin for professional support, they often run into these two concepts (coaching and consultation) that look remarkably similar. The results and approach that these experiences deliver though, are quite different. Although both are valuable, here are the distinctions:

Consultants are outside experts. As part of their expertise, they provide answers, strategies, and recommendations, and may even diagnose a problem that you didn't know you had. They are in the business of concrete plans, and slow, nebulous processes such as personal discovery are out of scope. Many of them also specialize in specific proprietary processes.

Coaches don't claim industry expertise, but they do offer long-term support. If a consultant shows you the missing puzzle pieces, a coach sits with you while your rotate and problem solve to make the complete picture. Coaches can not only support the organization, but they are also postured to support the individual through self-awareness, mindset growth, and behavioral changes.

Both paths are valuable, of course, and hybrid solutions may bring clients the best of both worlds. But at the end of the day, it comes down to what you need.

In summary:

• If you need strategies, proven systems, or expertise, choose a consultant.

• If you need clarity, accountability, or whole-person development, choose a coach.

At Prism Coaching, we'll work with you to find the best fit and can assist in helping you choose where to invest your time and money. We also have credibility in Lean/Six Sigma, Key Performance Indicators, and Organizational Leadership, so you can get the best of both worlds.