Marketing Job Search Advice: 10 Tips for Candidates
Job hunting in marketing right now? A little honesty, a bit of advice, and hopefully less disappointment. ❤️
From junior marketers through to Marketing Directors, I hear the same things time and time again.
Frustration. Disappointment. Applications disappearing into a black hole. Interviews that lead nowhere. And a growing feeling that, despite all the effort, nobody is listening. And honestly? I get it.
Having worked in this space for over two decades, I’d describe the current market as one where employers are risk-averse and have little appetite for taking chances.
Not in every case, of course, but many businesses are hiring like for like. Someone who’s done virtually the same job, in the same sector, with the same responsibilities, will often have the edge over someone who might bring a fresh perspective but needs a little room to grow. It’s frustrating, particularly when you know you’re capable of doing the job.
So, with that in mind, here are 10 things I’d genuinely encourage you to consider. Not because they’ll magically fix the market, but because they might save you some time, energy, and unnecessary disappointment.
1. Be selective. Don’t apply for everything.
As a rough guide, if you don’t meet around 70 – 80% of the key requirements, think carefully before applying. There are exceptions, and job descriptions aren’t always realistic, but if there’s a substantial gap between what’s required and what you’ve done, your time might be better spent elsewhere. Remember, it’s a like for like market.
2. Your CV helps you apply for jobs. Your LinkedIn profile helps jobs find you.
I’d recommend posting or engaging a few times a week, sharing industry thoughts, celebrating achievements, commenting thoughtfully on others’ content, and ensuring your profile clearly reflects the type of role you’re targeting. The most successful candidates aren’t always the best qualified on paper; they’re often the ones who remain visible and easy to find.
3. Stay top of mind with your network. Some roles can be filled through introductions and recommendations. People can’t think of you if they don’t know you’re looking. A comment, post or shared article can spark conversations with hiring managers, former colleagues or potential employers.
4. Read between the lines of the job advert.
poorly written job advert doesn’t automatically mean the employer is a poor one, but it can tell you something about the thought that’s gone into the hiring process. In other words, tread very carefully.
5. Be wary of salaries that don’t stack up.
If the responsibilities sound senior but the salary is anything but, ask yourself whether it’s worth pursuing. Equally, if something sounds too good to be true, do your homework before investing your time. Personally, I’d avoid them.
6. Don’t put all your eggs in the job-board basket.
Mainstream job boards can feel like a black hole. That doesn’t mean every application is pointless, but don’t make them your only strategy. Research companies you’d genuinely like to work for, speak to relevant recruiters, and via LinkedIn, build relationships with people in your industry. It’s sometimes a much better way.
7. Don’t jump through endless hoops before you’ve even spoken to someone.
A short application is one thing. A lengthy questionnaire, a video explaining why you want to work there, several written tasks and an essay on your favourite brand, all before a conversation? That’s a big ask. Your time has value, too. Decide where to draw the line.
8. Make it easy for people to understand your value.
Your CV shouldn’t just be a list of responsibilities. In this market, less is more. Focus on what you’ve actually achieved. Have you improved conversion rates, grown an audience, generated leads, strengthened a brand or delivered a successful campaign? Be specific, be honest and give people a reason to remember you. Concise & clear works every time.
9. Don’t take every rejection personally.
I know that’s easier said than done, especially when you’ve had several knockbacks. Sometimes someone else has done almost the same job, in almost the same environment. That doesn’t mean you’re not good enough. It means the employer has chosen the option that feels safest to them.
10. Protect your confidence and your energy.
It’s easy to let job hunting consume every waking hour. Set yourself realistic goals, take breaks and don’t measure your worth by the number of interviews you secure. Keep networking, keep learning, and keep in touch with people who make you feel positive about what you do.
One final thought.
If you’re a marketer who’s been struggling, please don’t automatically assume you’re doing something wrong. The market is difficult. Competition is fierce. Employers are cautious. And sometimes, very good people get overlooked for reasons that have little to do with their ability. You can’t control every hiring decision. You can’t make employers take a chance. And you certainly can’t force anyone to reply to an application.
But you can be more selective about where you invest your time, how you present yourself and which opportunities genuinely deserve your energy.
If you’re job hunting in marketing right now, I genuinely wish you well. Don’t give up on yourself just because the market is making things harder than they should be, and we’re always here for a natter if you want to chat things through. ❤️