When you hear the word “mentoring,” you might picture someone fresh out of university or just starting their first role in tech, eager for guidance. And while early-career mentoring is powerful, there’s a growing trend we see at Femme Palette: more and more mid-level women in tech are actively seeking out mentors — and reaping major benefits. Whether you're a software engineer eyeing your first leadership role, a product manager navigating a complex team dynamic, or a data analyst feeling stuck in the same projects — mentoring at this stage isn’t about learning the ropes. It’s about gaining clarity, confidence, and strategy for your next move.
Mentoring starts with you. Before you reach out to a mentor, first decide what you want to achieve and why. Knowing your goals will not only help you find the right mentor, but also make your mentoring experience more effective. The Femme Palette program helps you with the matching process, so you can focus on having a productive conversation with your mentor. Here is what you should keep in mind in your mentoring sessions.
One of the most valuable assets in your professional life is having an inspiring mentor. Mentoring is still seen as a powerful way of gaining valuable skills and getting ahead in your career. It has been proven by studies and surveys that effective mentoring benefits both the mentor and mentee in equal measure. While mentors can improve their leadership skills and get a fresher perspective on the industry, mentees can identify skill gaps, boost their confidence and get access to the mentor’s prized professional network.
We asked the professionals from our mentoring program what makes a good mentor. From having the relevant experience, asking the right questions and recognising the mentee’s strengths, to opening up and acknowledging the unique journey of the mentee. These are some of the traits that, according to Kristyna, Julia, Kvetka and Lucie, define a great career mentor.
Mentoring is about building a relationship. This would presumably be done in person, however, as an ex-mentee Michaela confirms, a successful mentoring relationship can be built online, too. Michaela shares her experience with remote mentoring and gives useful tips to anyone who is considering getting a mentor.
During the COVID-19 times, our Mentoring Program for women shifted its mentoring sessions online. That’s why our Mentoring Program Manager Kelly Stary put together some useful tips on how to make the remote mentoring relationship work.
Find yourself a cheerleader! Key advice for women in HR from Zuzka Peskova, the head of HR at a tech company. She shares how having a mentor can help you not only with a career transition, but also with brainstorming ideas and facing unexpected challenges. Read our interview with the HR expert and learn how mentoring can change your life.
Do you want to be part of our mentoring program but can’t afford it? We have a tip for you: ask your manager to cover the cost! Why? Being part of our mentoring program will help you grow as a professional and you’ll get to develop new skills. Having a mentor will benefit you and your employer.
