A new CIPD report which assess the implications of the devolution of coaching from professional coaches to line managers is set to launch next week.

The study, ‘Coaching at the sharp end,’ is the first of its kind and challenges the idea that line managers can fulfil all the functions of a specialist coach; instead calling for a coaching style of management as more realistic and desirable for organisations facing the challenges of the recession and beyond.

The extensive survey of over 500 managers from ten organisations, representing different levels of seniority, age, gender and background was conducted as part of the research, enabling the creation of a two stage model of coaching characteristics. The results also helped reveal the main constraints to achieving a coaching style of management; identified as time constraints, organisational culture, a perceived lack of skills and a lack of confidence to deal with difficult people.

Commenting on the findings, Dr John McGurk, learning, training and development adviser at the CIPD said: "Coaching as a management style is just as appropriate for organisations facing the challenges of hostile economic conditions as it is for those enjoying business growth and development. This guidance will help HR professionals work with their line managers to diagnose the most effective way forward in implementing and embedding coaching so that it becomes part of 'business as normal'."

The study will be launched at the HRD Conference on 21 April.