Michelle Baltrusitis
Head of Community & Social Impact, Fiverr
📍New York, United States
What qualities do you think leaders need to have in today’s world?
We’re living in a world where knowledge is instantly accessible and AI can execute many technical tasks, which means the qualities that set leaders apart are increasingly human. Emotional intelligence is essential. It allows leaders to build trust, read nuance, and understand what truly motivates people. Leaders with high EQ regulate their own reactions and respond thoughtfully under pressure. They create environments where people feel heard and valued.
In moments of change or uncertainty, that ability to lead with empathy and self-awareness directly impacts morale, collaboration, and long-term performance. Discernment is just as critical. With constant inputs and rapid innovation, leaders must exercise strong judgment. Discernment is about knowing what’s aligned with your values and strategy, what to prioritize, and when to move versus when to pause. It’s the ability to make sound, principled decisions even when the information is complex or incomplete.
If you had to describe your leadership style in one word, what would it be and why?
If I had to describe my leadership style in one word, it would be intentional. I try not to lead reactively or just for momentum’s sake. I’m thoughtful about where we’re going, why we’re going there, and how decisions impact the people around me. Whether it’s community strategy, partnerships, or broader initiatives, I value clarity, alignment, and purpose, making sure what we build actually serves the people it’s meant to support.
How does your company’s Pledge 1% program help shape the kind of workplace culture you believe in?
Pledge 1% reinforces that impact isn’t separate from the business, it’s part of how we operate. It helps shape a culture where purpose sits alongside performance and where giving back is embedded into how we think about growth. That’s how social impact becomes sustainable in a public company, when it’s woven into the foundation of the business rather than layered on top.
This year marks the 7th year of Pledge 1%’s #WomenWhoLead campaign. How can companies champion and support female leadership?
As someone still relatively early in my leadership journey, I’ve seen how much advocacy and access matter. I’ve grown quickly because I had incredible champions — including strong male leaders — who brought me into rooms before I felt fully ready, trusted me with meaningful responsibility, and advocated for me when I wasn’t there to do it myself. That kind of sponsorship materially changes a career. When companies institutionalize that level of belief, access, and accountability, advancement becomes structural rather than situational and that’s what creates real momentum for young women who are still building confidence and credibility.
If you could write a note to your younger self on her first day of work, what would it say?
On my first day, I’d tell myself: you don’t have to treat every single interaction like it’s a final exam on your worth. Caring deeply is a strength, but the pressure to be impressive, perfectly prepared, and exceptional at all times is something you’re putting on yourself. Most people are figuring it out as they go, even the ones who don’t look like it. When imposter syndrome shows up, it’s not proof that you’re behind; it’s usually a sign you’re in a room that’s stretching you. And when someone praises you at work, don’t immediately assume they just aren’t seeing the flaws or the parts you think you could’ve done better. Use it for what it is: evidence you’re doing a good job!
