Executive coaching vs leadership coaching — both aim to improve workplace performance and help you grow as a leader. But what’s the difference between them, and how do you know which one you need?

If you’ve started exploring the world of coaching, you’ve probably noticed how many kinds there are—executive coaching vs leadership coaching vs other types of business coaching. The terminology can be confusing, and it’s not always clear which type of coach is right for your goals.

This post will help you understand the main types of business coaching, what each one focuses on, and how to find the right coach for your career stage, style, and budget.

Along the way, we’ll also look at the average cost ranges for coaching so you can make an informed decision. These numbers are just guidelines—there’s wide variation depending on experience, certification, and specialty—but they’ll give you a realistic starting point.

What Is Business Coaching?

Business coaching is the umbrella term for any kind of coaching focused on improving professional performance. Unlike life coaching, which centers on personal growth and relationships, business coaching helps people perform better at work—whether that means leading teams, communicating effectively, or making better decisions.

There are many types of business coaching, each emphasizing different skills and client goals. Some coaches specialize by industry or job level, while others focus on broad leadership skills that apply across roles.

A good business coach helps you translate experience into insight and insight into action. Whether you’re refining your leadership presence, improving collaboration, or preparing for a promotion, the right coach provides structure, accountability, and reflection to help you grow faster.

If you’re trying to find the right coach, start by looking at their background. Most business coaches draw on their own success in a particular area—finance, entrepreneurship, management, or team development—and use that expertise to help others grow.

Executive Coaching Explained

Executive coaching is designed for senior leaders, executives, and C-suite professionals. The focus is on helping top decision makers strengthen self-awareness, improve performance, and lead with greater clarity and confidence.

When comparing executive coaching vs leadership coaching, the distinction often lies in the scope. Executive coaching zeroes in on the complex responsibilities of leading organizations—strategy, influence, and accountability at the highest levels.

Because self-awareness is the number one predictor of leadership success, many executive coaches help clients reflect on their blind spots and test new approaches in real time. A skilled executive coach provides a confidential space to think, strategize, and get honest feedback without internal politics.

Many high-priced executive coaches have deep experience in the industries they serve. They charge more because they understand the unique pressures of top leadership roles and bring that real-world insight to every session.

Typical cost range: $300 to $3,000 an hour, with some high-profile coaches charging $100,000 a year or more.

If you want a coach who specializes in executive-level challenges and strategic leadership, executive coaching may be the best fit for you.

Leadership Coaching Explained

Leadership coaching focuses on developing the people and performance skills that make great teams thrive. While executive coaching often centers on organizational strategy, leadership coaching works at every level—from new managers to experienced executives—helping leaders inspire, align, and motivate others.

When comparing the difference between executive and leadership coaching, leadership coaching is usually broader in focus. It builds the everyday capabilities leaders need to create trust, drive collaboration, and manage change effectively.

Leadership coaches help clients translate self-awareness into influence. Through reflection, feedback, and practice, you learn how to improve communication, strengthen relationships, and make better decisions that align teams around shared goals.

Because leadership coaching applies across industries and roles, it’s often the best choice for leaders preparing for the next step in their careers—or those who want to sharpen their skills for long-term success.

Typical cost range: $200 to $3,000 an hour, depending on the coach’s experience, client base, and focus area.

If you’re ready to grow your leadership impact and improve team results, leadership coaching offers a structured, research-based path forward.

Other Types of Business Coaching

Beyond executive coaching vs leadership coaching, there are many types of business coaching designed for different goals, roles, and stages of growth. Here are some of the most common specialties and what they focus on.

Career Coaching

Helps professionals navigate job changes, clarify career goals, and make strategic decisions. Many career coaches also assist with resumes, networking, and interview preparation. Cost range: $100–$250 an hour.

Team Coaching

Focuses on helping teams align around shared goals, break down silos, and improve collaboration. Team coaching often includes group sessions, assessments, and individual feedback. Cost range: $100–$500 per person per hour or more.

Succession Coaching

Prepares rising leaders for future roles through targeted development and skill building. Often used as part of formal succession planning or executive transitions. Cost range: $5,000–$10,000 a month for three to six months.

Performance Coaching

Addresses individual or team performance challenges and helps employees strengthen skills that improve measurable results. Sometimes used as a development tool for high-potential or struggling leaders. Cost range: $200–$3,000 an hour.

Proprietary or Model-Based Coaching

Some firms use branded or research-based models such as Vistage, CRR Global, or Gallup Strengths coaching. These models teach specific frameworks and often feel more like structured courses than personalized coaching. Cost range: $3,000–$10,000+ per program.

Other Specialties

There are countless niche options—from sales coaching and manager coaching to ADHD, fundraising, and emotional intelligence coaching. Each combines experience and evidence-based methods to deliver results that match the client’s goals.

How to Find the Right Coach for You

With so many types of business coaching available, the best choice depends on your goals, your role, and how you like to learn. Whether you’re drawn to executive coaching vs leadership coaching, or another specialty, focus first on what you want to achieve.

Ask yourself:

  • What do I want to change or improve?
  • What kind of feedback helps me grow best?
  • Do I want a coach with deep industry experience or one who brings an outside perspective?

Once you’re clear on your coaching goals, it becomes much easier to find the right coach—someone whose style, background, and approach align with your goals and personality.

A strong coaching relationship is built on trust, self-reflection, and accountability. When those elements are in place, growth becomes measurable, meaningful, and lasting.

Keep Learning About Executive Coaching vs Leadership Coaching

Keep learning about  leadership coaching and how to find the right coach to help you reach your next level of growth. Here are the related posts in this series.

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