Navigating your career can feel like venturing into uncharted territory especially when you're searching for new opportunities. The path isn’t always clear, and going it alone can make the journey even tougher. That’s why you don’t just need a map and a compass—you need a team. A network of mentors and trusted allies can act as your personal board of directors, guiding you toward growth and success. Let’s dive into how you can build this powerful support system and leverage it to accelerate your career.
The Women in Tech: Learn and Connect event, hosted by Femme Palette at Make Headquarters in Prague, brought together a community of women eager to explore new career strategies, tech insights, and inspiring stories. With the support of partners Pure Storage, Mews, Barclays, Huawei, media partner Vogue, and community partner Czechitas, the night was full of engaging discussions and practical advice for navigating the tech industry.
Mentoring is a vital resource for professional development, providing guidance, support, and valuable insights from experienced individuals. Amsterdam, known for its thriving business ecosystem, offers a variety of mentoring platforms that cater to different needs, from startups and entrepreneurs to women in tech and beyond. Here’s a comprehensive look at the top mentoring platforms in Amsterdam.
Meet Ekaterina Znatkova, a senior developer at Barclays Prague Technology Center. As Controls Development Lead, she manages a team of developers and actively mentors in programs promoting female talent in IT. Katya also participated in the Barclays global GenAI hackathon, winning the Hackathon Star award and being part of a winning team. In this interview, she shares her journey in IT, the challenges she faces, and her experiences at the hackathon.
In the professional world, negotiation is an essential skill that can significantly impact your career trajectory. Yet, for many women, negotiating—whether it's for a raise, a promotion, or new responsibilities—can feel daunting. The reality is that women often face unique challenges when it comes to negotiation, stemming from societal expectations, workplace dynamics, and even self-doubt. But mastering this skill is crucial for breaking barriers and ensuring you receive the recognition and rewards you deserve.
Networking is a crucial element in career advancement, and for professional women in Amsterdam, there are a variety of events that can help build meaningful connections and foster career growth. Whether you are seeking mentoring opportunities, looking to expand your professional circle, or interested in learning from successful women in your field, attending the right networking events can make a significant difference.
Building a personal brand doesn't require you to be Marie Forleo, Joanna Penn, or Brene Brown. Even small steps can significantly enhance your presence, attracting the right clients and opportunities. Below, I share key strategies using my own experiences to guide you in building your personal brand effectively.
As I embarked on my own adventure abroad, I encountered a surprising number of articles painting a picture of isolation for newcomers. "You'll be very much alone," came up surprisingly often… But is isolation inevitable? How can we build a network of contacts and find connections in a new country?