A mentor helps you decide and navigate; a tutor helps you understand specific content; a course gives you structured learning and, sometimes, a qualification. Many people need more than one, in that order.
Example
Thandi, an admin clerk, wants to move into payroll. A mentor in HR helps her understand the role. If she then enrols in a bookkeeping course, a tutor can help her with the maths modules.
Quick rule of thumb
- Unsure what to do? Start with a mentor.
- Know what to learn but stuck? Find a tutor.
- Need structured knowledge or a credential? Consider a course.
Which do I need?
Copy this into a notebook or your phone.
- I know which career I want: yes / no
- I’m stuck on specific content: yes / no
- Employers in my target role ask for a qualification: yes / no
Next step
Read the guide for your answer, or browse mentors and tutors.