Consultants are often external experts that identify challenges or obstacles and either write reports on their findings or fix the problem themselves. Coaches, on the other hand, often help the client to discover the challenge on their own and then help them implement a strategy to remove the obstacle and to ensure that not only do they correct the problem but often learn to deal with similar circumstances in the future. Consulting and therapy fix what is broken, and is often tend to be dependant relationships. A successful coaching relationship leads to a satisfied client becoming more independent and self-directed. A coach will help you discover your own solutions, while a consultant is more likely to provide solutions.
Coaches tend to be more positive than critical.
The goal being to help the client see their own strengths, and deal with their weaknesses to empower them to seize their opportunities and realize their goals. Some coaches can be ruthless when you are too soft on yourself. You should expect your coach to ask you soul-searching questions that you wont ask yourself. When looking for a coach, Arthurs says, You should look for experience. It is important to make sure that your coach has experience in the areas you need.