The Threat Response at Work
The Threat Response at Work
In leadership and professional settings, clarity and certainty are essential for good decision-making. Yet when plans change unexpectedly or control is removed, even experienced leaders can find themselves reacting emotionally rather than thinking strategically. This is the brain’s threat response at work.
When certainty is disrupted, blood and oxygen are diverted away from the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for reasoning and judgement — making calm, rational thinking temporarily harder. Recognising this response allows leaders to pause, regulate, and re-engage their thinking capacity.
The 8 Hats of Great Mentors: The Firm Foundation Builder
The third of the 8 Hats of Great Mentoring explores the Firm Foundation Builder. Learn why effective mentoring sometimes means providing practical guidance rather than asking coaching questions, and how sharing knowledge at the right time helps mentees develop skills, confidence and independence.
The 8 Hats of Great Mentors: The Reassuring Strong Presence
The second of the 8 Hats of Great Mentoring explores the Reassuring Strong Presence. Learn how recognising vulnerability, listening without judgement and offering reassurance can help mentoring partners feel supported, regain confidence and think more clearly.
The Well-Connected Sponsor
Some of the most powerful mentoring happens outside the room. Meet the Well-Connected Sponsor, one of the eight hats great mentors wear.
