Michaela Krajíčková is one of those mentees who reminds us exactly why we do what we do. She went from seven years in legal practice to managing luxury glass installations across European markets. In this mentee spotlight, she shares how joining the Femme Palette mentoring program helped her move beyond execution and into a more strategic, confident version of herself. From salary raise to a clearer sense of direction, her story is proof that sometimes you do not need to reinvent yourself. You just need the right person in your corner to help you see what was already there.
Ever feel like you’re stuck in your career? You’re not alone. Maybe you’ve worked hard, checked all the boxes, and yet you still feel like something’s missing. Or perhaps you’re ambitious but unsure what the next step should be. You’ve read the books, attended webinars, and scrolled through endless career advice on LinkedIn – but nothing seems to give you that aha moment. Here’s the truth: career growth isn’t just about what you know. It’s about who’s guiding you along the way. That’s where mentoring comes in.
The Femme Palette Leadership & Career Conference 2025 is back, and it’s bigger than ever. Packed with talks, panels, workshops, and mentoring, this event isn’t just another conference. It’s your chance to learn from the best, connect with the brightest, and invest in yourself like never before.
In our latest interview, we sat down with Valentyna Chycha, Senior Software Test Engineer at Paylocity, who shared an inspiring look into her career journey - from a surprising start in software testing during her studies in Ukraine to a leadership role in a fast-paced U.S. tech environment. Valentyna reflects on the power of resilience, mentorship, and self-advocacy in navigating challenges such as micromanagement and underrepresentation. Her thoughtful insights highlight how continuous learning, clear communication, and inner confidence can shape a successful and fulfilling career in tech.
Let me start with a confession: I've been there. I've struggled with imposter syndrome more times than I can count. Just when I thought I had finally built some confidence in my abilities, something small would happen and I would spiral right back down. That self-doubt is relentless.Over time, I realized that imposter syndrome doesn't come from a single place. It can grow from many roots.
A successful mentoring relationship is a two-way street. While mentors offer guidance, insights, and support, it’s up to the mentee to make the most of the experience. Whether you're just starting your mentoring journey or already have a mentor, knowing how to show up as a proactive and respectful mentee is key to your growth. Here are the top do’s and don'ts of being a great mentee.
It’s always a good time to celebrate everything women do – and to gently remind them that taking care of themselves is just as important as caring for others. For women juggling work, family, and life’s many demands, a good supplement routine can support energy, immunity, and long-term health. Here are seven science-backed essentials worth including.
The recent Femme Palette event, "Balancing Motherhood & Career," brought together mothers and professionals for an inspiring day filled with practical strategies, authentic stories, and powerful networking opportunities. Hosted in collaboration with Accolade and other partners, the event emphasized community and mutual support from the outset, with Lucie Neumanová, CEO and co-founder of Femme Palette, setting a welcoming and inclusive tone.
When it comes to achieving professional and personal growth, mentoring and coaching are often discussed separately. Yet, combining these two powerful tools can significantly accelerate your progress, providing comprehensive support for both your career and personal development. Here's why integrating coaching with mentoring creates a synergy that can propel you further than either approach alone.