1:1 Coaching vs. Group Coaching: A Friendly Face-off

So, here we go – my first blog post.

Well, kind of. When I launched my business a year ago, I wrote a bunch of blogs. But if I’m honest - they didn’t really sound like me. A bit too polished, a bit too try hard. So, I took them down after a couple of months.

Fast forward to today, and I’m showing up differently – as the person I’ve grown into over the past year. And will I cringe at these blogs in the future? Perhaps. But instead of hiding them, I’ll look back and think, Look how far I’ve come.

So, here we go!

Imagine this: you're on a journey of growth and transformation, and you have a coach by your side. It’s a pretty powerful thought, right? But what if the right coach for you isn’t the one-on-one relationship you expect, but rather the shared wisdom of a group setting?

Choosing the right coaching format is important and it’s not a one size fits all situation. Whether you opt for 1:1 coaching or group coaching, both have their unique benefits.

1:1 Coaching: Tailored for You

In 1:1 coaching, it's all about you. Imagine having a personal guide by your side, focused solely on your growth, challenges, and goals. This approach is perfect for individuals who are seeking tailored support, specific feedback, and deep exploraton into personal or professional development.

I’ve seen first hand how 1:1 coaching can completely transform the way individuals approach their lives and careers. It’s more than just a chat or some great questions – it’s about understanding the nuances of your goals, questioning your assumptions, allowing you to just ‘be’ and building a roadmap that’s personal to you - and only you!

In coaching sessions, we get into the nitty-gritty. Whether it’s tackling leadership challenges, navigating career shifts, or improving self-confidence, 1:1 coaching is about creating a space where you can be vulnerable, reflect, and grow with tailored strategies that help you move forward at your own pace. And with zero judgement too!

Group Coaching: Shared Wisdom and Collective Growth

Now, let’s talk about group coaching. This format offers something really unique. Picture this: a supportive, like-minded community coming together to learn, grow, and share insights. While 1:1 coaching offers deep, personalised focus, group coaching taps into the power of collective wisdom.

One of the most rewarding aspects of group coaching is learning from your peers. When someone else shares their breakthrough moment, it often sparks new ideas for you. You’re not only gaining from the coach’s insights, but also from the diverse perspectives of others who are on a similar path.

In group coaching programmes, I’ve seen how the community aspect builds accountability, builds deep connections, and creates a strong support network. Plus, group coaching tends to be more financially accessible, making it a practical option for many who want to explore coaching without the higher cost of 1:1 sessions.

The Key Difference: Depth vs Community

So, which one is better? The answer depends on where you are in your own personal development journey. 1:1 coaching offers a more intimate, customised experience, while group coaching provides a sense of community and shared learning. But here’s a crucial difference: Coaching, whether individual or in a group, is about long-term growth, not a quick fix.

While typical leadership programmes might give you an energy boost that fades, coaching offers a steady, ongoing process. It’s like a sugar cube dissolving slowly, rather than the sugar rush might get from a leadership programme - it’s sustained growth through continuous feedback, reflection, and your own personal evolution.

Your Next Step: Tailored to You

If you’re seeking a community of like-minded individuals to grow with, The Growth Collective in collaboration with Michelle Moreno from QAB Leadership, our first group coaching cohort for Operators in Hospitality and Retail, could be exactly what you need. It begins on January 28th and runs until March 25th, and it could be right up your street.

But, if you're looking for more personalised, one-on-one guidance, individual coaching could be right to support you as you tackle your specific challenges and reach your personal or professional goals.

Whoever you choose to work with on your development - it’s your adventure, so choose your coach wisely.

Ready to explore the right option for you? Let’s talk.

Photo by Drew Beamer on Unsplash