Leaders are key to developing their team’s knowledge attitude and skills. They also support their people, however how do we know how to do this and more importantly, when not to?

Coaching is unlocking the potential of an individual, team or organization by helping them to maximise their performance.  This is done by facilitating them to find their own way forwards rather than the coach prescribe the solution. All good leaders will use coaching.

Teaching refers to educating or giving instruction; activities that impart knowledge and skills. It is different to coaching in that you tell and show rather than ask. There are times when leaders will tell rather than ask.

Mentoring is a relationship where one person offers guidance and support to facilitate learning and development of a colleague at an appropriate stage in their career. The Mentor has usually walked the path the Mentee wishes to follow, though it may be an easier relationship if the person mentoring is not the immediate line manager.

Counselling is helping or supporting - often in a social or welfare context so usually requires specialist skills. Most leaders are not trained to enter into such areas - indeed it is often dangerous to do so - however a caring leader can refer people on to specialists.