I was a C-Level Executive in a large multi-location education organization for three and a half years.

I worked with an executive coach for about a year before I made the transition from VP to the C Suite. We continued working together after I transitioned. Having a coach for support, encouragement, and a good swift kick in the ass from time to time was invaluable.

All employees benefit from a coach.

Coaches provide a safe space to vent, bounce ideas off of, and provide valuable feedback that your boss may not be willing or capable of giving you. I worked through a lot of difficult conversations with my coach - fine-tuning language and gaining confidence in how I would approach a situation. My coach also helped me see my blind spots much more quickly than I would have seen them on my own.

Coaching is different from mentoring.

The primary differences I've seen between coaches and mentors:

1. Mentors become much more permanently invested. You typically work with a coach for a season.

2. The relationship with a coach is much more formal than that with a mentor.

3. Coaches hold you accountable while mentors are more likely to cheer you on and support you.

Find a coach who resonates with you.

While coaching and mentoring are different, you still have to click with the coach just like you do with a mentor. Don't jump into a coaching relationship without ensuring that the coach fits your personality well.

Have you worked with a coach? I'd love to hear your experience.