Plain speaking conservative UK MP, Anne Widdecombe, presented a controversial analysis of coaching at a recent conference organised by the Oxford School of Coaching and Mentoring. The premise of her speech was that coaching for the average person was largely unnecessary saying that: “We all know what it takes to get on in life and work and our own attitude and commonsense determines how we succeed. Workplace coaches and mentors are not needed.”

Taking issue with Widdecombe’s remarks, Simon Morden, Chairman of Prosell said: “Virtually every study ever published reveals that employees who are clear on what is expected of them, receive regular feedback and encouragement from their manager and feel included in decision making about their future, perform much better than those who don’t. As a consequence of this, organisations with a motivated and focused workforce have a much greater chance of success than those failing to engage with their employees.”

He adds: “Leaving people to just get on with it, is not an option for companies operating in a global marketplace.”