Is coaching women really that different from coaching men?
Actually, Yes.
Fundamentally, experienced coaches know that coaching each person is different. However, if we may generalize, there is a lot of recent research that talks about how men and women have different motivators. And we know that we obviously communicate differently. And if that wasn’t enough, research from a book called “The Female Brain” actually talks about how male and female brains are wired differently. The combination of these factors makes it important for us to understand how to coach women differently.
So what are the main differences? Research shows on average men are more motivated by status in hierarchy and women are more motivated by meaning and the ability to make an impact. So engaging and retaining them is different. What holds women back is also often unique. They more often are concerned about challenges in balancing their work and family commitments, in finding their authentic voice, in being confident in themselves, in navigating traditional hierarchies, and in defining their unique brand of “power”. The insights and tools that I have gathered from 20 years of watching myself and others navigate demanding work environments is what I bring to my coaching practice.
Someone asked me a great question a few days ago. “What is it that you love about coaching?” For me it is the moment of shift when someone starts to see their own greatness and move more boldly toward what is meaningful for them. What draws me to coaching women is that so few of us allow ourselves to see our own greatness. In the words of Marianne Williamson: “As we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same.” And that is my hope for you.
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So, what are ways you believe women are unique to coach and to mentor?
