Workplace mentoring and coaching key to boosting performance – ABM

Research from the Association of Business Mentors (ABM) found workplace mentoring and coaching are now key for improving business performance, keeping staff, and supporting employee wellbeing in the UK. 

Two-thirds of businesses reported better business performance from their mentoring and coaching schemes, while 60% saw improvements in staff wellbeing. 

66% of businesses said mentoring and coaching helped with staff retention and attracting new talent. 

The research also showed 77% of businesses are using artificial intelligence (AI) to support these programmes. 

The main challenges reported by businesses included lack of time and availability to take part in mentoring and coaching programmes (47%), difficulties matching mentors and mentees (39%), and limited budget and resources to run these programmes (38%).

Nearly all HR leaders (98%) said having accredited workplace mentoring and coaching programmes would add value and help raise standards. 

Georgina Waite, CEO of the ABM, said: “The workplace is changing at an extraordinary pace, and mentoring and coaching should no longer be considered optional extras. 

“Our research proves that they directly strengthen performance, wellbeing, and talent pipelines. 

“However, despite the clear benefits, access remains uneven and too many organisations face barriers to delivering high-quality programmes.”

Waite added: “At the ABM, our mission is to raise standards, widen access, and ensure that every employee and business can experience the full impact of mentoring and coaching. 

“By focusing on consistency, credibility, and measurable outcomes, we can make these programmes truly transformative and ensure their benefits are felt across every level of the workforce.”

ABM called for urgent action to improve the quality and accessibility of workplace mentoring and coaching. 

The group proposed three main steps: creating an accreditation system for consistent standards, more collaboration between Government, businesses and the mentoring and coaching community to widen access, and driving a culture shift so mentoring and coaching become a normal part of working life.