Coaching is increasingly popular as a means of promoting learning and development, according to this year’s learning and development survey, from the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD).

Initial findings show, that almost three-quarters (71%) of UK employers currently use coaching in their organisations, compared to 63% in 2007 and a similar proportion (72%) of respondents find coaching to be an effective tool.

The survey finds more than two fifths of organisations now offer coaching to all employees, 39% offer it to directors and senior management and a third offer it to senior managers and line managers/supervisors.

Commenting on the findings, John McGurk, CIPD learning, training and development adviser, says: "Coaching is not just a popular technique but an immensely powerful one for supporting personal development. There is no doubt that coaching is having a significant impact both on individual and organisational performance. As coaching helps people to develop, it’s a perfect fit for the fast moving knowledge economy in which we operate."

However, worryingly, only 8% evaluate the effectiveness of coaching via a formal annual (or other regular) evaluation process. Two in five (42%) respondents feel that the effectiveness of coaching is gauged by reviews of objectives conducted with line managers, coaches and coachees.

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