At 36 years old, I’m a senior marketer looking for a cushy, high-paying job—preferably in the $90k-$100k range—that doesn’t come with excessive stress. Unfortunately, I keep finding myself in positions that don’t fit the bill and have had to quit.
I spent a few years in the agency world focusing on SEO, ads, and martech, before transitioning to in-house roles at SaaS startups. My last job ended with a layoff after just 18 months, which happened in August 2024.
I then joined another SaaS startup that was struggling with cash flow due to vendor strikes, but I left after just two months because the chaos was overwhelming. I was the only marketer on the team, and it just didn’t work out.
Most recently, I tried returning to an agency but ended up giving my two weeks’ notice after only two months. The fast-paced environment was too much for me. The pressure is relentless in agencies, unlike in-house roles, which tend to be a bit more relaxed.
Now, I’m seriously considering going back to a more stable company and steering clear of startups for good.
3 responses to “Experienced Marketer Seeks a Well-Paid, Less Demanding Job”
It sounds like you’ve been on quite a journey, and it’s understandable to want a role that offers both high pay and lower stress, especially after those intense experiences in startups and agencies. Transitioning back to an in-house position at a more stable company could be a great move for you. Here are a few tips that might help you find the right fit:
Target Established Companies: Look for larger, more established firms in your industry. They often have better resources, clearer structures, and more manageable workloads compared to startups.
Network Strategically: Leverage your professional network to find opportunities in companies known for their work-life balance. Personal connections can often lead to roles that aren’t posted publicly.
Clarify Your Non-Negotiables: When interviewing, be upfront about your desire for a balanced workload and lower stress. This can help you gauge whether the company culture aligns with your goals.
Consider Roles Beyond Marketing: Sometimes, roles that are tangentially related to marketing (like customer success or brand management) can offer a more relaxed environment while still leveraging your skill set.
Focus on Company Culture: Research potential employers to understand their culture and employee reviews. Sites like Glassdoor can provide insights into how employees view the work-life balance.
Look for Remote Opportunities: Sometimes, a remote position can help reduce daily stress related to commuting and provide more flexibility.
Finding a job that meets your criteria may take some time, but being selective and true to your needs will be worth it in the long run. Good luck on your search, and remember to take care of yourself during this transition!
Thank you for sharing your experience—it’s insightful to hear how rapidly changing environments can affect your career decisions. Your desire for a stable, high-paying position is completely valid, especially given the tumultuous nature of your recent roles.
It might be worth considering a few strategies to find that “cushy” job you’re looking for. Firstly, leveraging your extensive experience in marketing could open doors to industries that value a steady hand rather than fast-paced innovation, such as established financial services or healthcare companies. These industries often prioritize stability and are more likely to offer the work-life balance you’re seeking.
Additionally, networking with professionals in less chaotic companies could give you insights into available opportunities and company cultures that align with your goal of avoiding excessive stress. Websites like LinkedIn or attending industry meetups can be great ways to connect with individuals already in these stable environments.
Lastly, consider expanding your skill set to include competencies in emerging areas. For example, knowledge in analytics can make you more marketable in a less stressful role, where companies value data-driven decisions but do not demand the frantic pace of startups.
Remember, it’s also important to communicate your desire for a balanced workload in interviews and to look for organizations that prioritize employee well-being in their core values. Best of luck in your job search!
Thank you for sharing your journey in the marketing landscape. It’s incredibly valuable to hear about the realities of transitioning between different types of roles and environments, especially the tension between high expectations and personal well-being.
Considering your experience and preferences, I would recommend looking into companies that prioritize work-life balance and have established processes. These organizations often offer comprehensive benefits and a culture that values employee well-being. Additionally, you might explore roles in industries less prone to volatility, such as healthcare, education, or established tech firms.
Another avenue to consider could be positions that leverage your marketing skills without the intense pressure, such as in roles focused on content strategy or brand management, where the pace can be more manageable. Networking with professionals who are currently in stable roles in these companies might yield insights into their experiences and even potential job openings.
Finally, consider utilizing your expertise in SEO and martech to offer consulting services. Freelancing could provide you the flexibility you desire while enabling you to choose projects that align with your preferences and lifestyle.
Wishing you the best in your search for a fulfilling and balanced role!