Most Commonly Asked Questions

What's the difference between mentoring and coaching?

Mentoring is relationship-based. A mentor has walked the path you're on and shares their experience, wisdom, and network. You largely drive the agenda. It's informal, long-term, and the value comes from who the mentor is and what they've lived.

Coaching is performance-based. A coach doesn't need to have done what you do, they use structured techniques to help you think more clearly, set goals, and close the gap between where you are and where you want to be. The coach drives the process.

How do I know whether having a Mentor will benefit me?

Every business is unique, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer. What we can tell you is that since 1986 we have supported over 20,000 businesses on their journey. Visit our Client Stories and Testimonials pages to hear directly from the wide range of small business owners who have benefited from our mentoring program.

Does my business qualify for Mentoring?

We offer mentoring to micro and small businesses, from a start-up concept to an established business that needs additional support.

What are the benefits of SBMS Mentoring compared to other forms of business assistance?

SBMS and its experienced business Mentors operate as a voluntary organisation, which means we can offer you an experienced, affordable service tailored precisely to what you want. Your Mentor is there solely to help you resolve issues and build a successful business. Bear in mind our mentor's aren't consultants who do paid work for you, they mentor you to help you make the right decisions and take your business to the next level.

What's the difference between a Mentor and a Consultant?

A consultant is somebody you pay to do the work for you, whereas a mentor helps you understand the work required so you can do it yourself. SBMS mentors can assist with some parts of the work where specific help is needed, but in all instances the input of the business operator is crucial to the success of the mentoring process.

Who are SBMS mentors and how do I choose the best one for my business?

Our mentors are active retired business people with a real depth of experience in their particular field. Our mentor directory is designed to help you select the most suitable mentor based on their skills, location, and industry.

How does the mentoring work?

Choose a mentor based on the kind of help you require, simply select the mentor whose knowledge and experience best fits your business needs. You'll receive a booking confirmation by email, and your mentor will reach out to arrange your first meeting at a time and place that works for you. At the end of each session you agree on the action points you'll undertake before the next meeting. Most people require 3-4 sessions, additional meetings can be arranged as needed.

Is mentoring expensive?

Our mentoring program offers excellent value, particularly when compared to  consultancy and coaching services. Depending on the number of sessions you choose, the cost is between $159 and $175 per session. We recommend 3, 5, or 7 sessions depending on your needs, with each session lasting around 1 to 1.5 hours. Our mentors are volunteers who generously give their time, which is why we are able to offer this affordable service.

Will mentors come to me?

Mentoring is primarily delivered online for your convenience. If in-person sessions are available, your mentor will discuss this preference directly after booking.