When Is the Right Time for Marketers to Leave a Company?

Leaving a job is a critical decision, especially for marketers. Timing is everything, and making the right move at the right moment can significantly impact your career trajectory. Think of leaving a job like transferring to a different train line; you shouldn’t just jump off at the first stop. Instead, wait until you reach a key interchange station, where you can change direction or head towards a new destination. Here’s how to determine when to make that move.

1. Complete a Full-Cycle Project and Understand the Company

Finish a Major Project: Before considering a departure, ensure you’ve completed a significant project that has allowed you to see the full cycle—from planning to execution. This not only boosts your resume but also gives you a deeper understanding of the company’s operations.
Know the Company’s Ins and Outs: By the second year at a company, you should have a solid grasp of how things work internally. This includes understanding the company’s marketing needs, pain points, and overall business logic.
Industry Insight: Use this time to gain a deeper understanding of the industry, including competitors, market trends, and brand positioning. This knowledge will be invaluable when looking for your next role.
Leverage Your Experience: Being able to speak confidently about a completed project and your learnings from it will make you a more attractive candidate for future employers.

2. Prepare Your Resume and Monitor the Job Market

Update Your Resume: Don’t wait until you’re ready to leave to update your resume. Regularly update it, especially after completing major projects. This ensures you’re always ready to apply for new opportunities.
Keep an Eye on Opportunities: Stay informed about job openings at companies you’re interested in. If a role that aligns with your career goals becomes available, you’ll be ready to act quickly.
Network Actively: Connect with industry recruiters, HR professionals, and peers in your field. Keep in touch regularly and share insights on your current projects. Your social media presence, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, should reflect your professional growth.
Engage with Your Industry: Share relevant articles, your own insights, and updates about your professional achievements on social media. This not only keeps you visible to potential employers but also reinforces your position as an industry expert.

3. Identify Your “Transfer Station”

Look for Career Growth: The best time to leave is when you see a clear opportunity to advance your career, either through a promotion or a move to a company that offers better growth prospects.
Align with Your Career Goals: Ensure that the next role you consider aligns with your long-term career aspirations. This could be a position with more responsibility, a better work-life balance, or a company whose values align with yours.
Opportunities for Learning: A new job should provide opportunities to learn new skills or work in a different aspect of marketing. This is especially important in New Zealand, where the market can be smaller, and versatility is valued.
Timing Your Exit: Leaving at the right time can mean the difference between moving into a role that is a step up versus a lateral move. Aim to exit when you have maximised your learning and contribution at your current job.

4. Assess the Company’s Future

Financial Stability: Before making a move, assess the financial stability of both your current company and the one you’re considering. A company’s health can impact your job security and growth opportunities.
Market Position: Is your current company growing or shrinking in its market? Companies that are losing market share might be worth leaving, whereas those that are expanding might offer new opportunities internally.
Leadership Changes: New leadership can bring significant changes. If there’s been a shift in leadership that you feel might negatively impact your role or the company’s direction, it might be time to consider other options.
Product and Service Evolution: Look at how your company’s products or services are evolving. If the company is innovating and expanding into new areas, staying might offer you new challenges and learning opportunities.

5. Evaluate Your Job Satisfaction

Work-Life Balance: New Zealand values work-life balance highly. If your job is starting to negatively impact your personal life, it might be time to consider a change.
Job Fulfillment: Are you still passionate about the work you’re doing? A lack of enthusiasm can be a strong indicator that it’s time to move on.
Team Dynamics: How is your relationship with your team and management? If you find yourself in a toxic work environment, it’s worth exploring other opportunities.
Career Progression: If you’ve hit a ceiling in terms of promotion or professional development, it might be time to look for a role that offers more growth potential.

6. Check the Job Market

Market Demand: Regularly assess the demand for your skills in the market. If there’s high demand for marketers with your expertise, it might be a good time to make a move.
Competitive Salaries: Ensure that your current salary is competitive with what the market is offering. If not, it could be time to look for a new role where your skills are more valued.
Industry Trends: Stay updated on industry trends. Are there emerging areas in marketing that you’re interested in? If so, consider a move to a company that’s leading in those areas.
Job Security: Assess the stability of your current job versus potential new roles. If your industry or company is facing uncertainty, it might be safer to explore new opportunities.

7. Consider the Impact of Your Departure

Company Impact: How will your departure impact your current company? If you’re a key player, leaving might create challenges for your team. Consider the timing carefully to avoid burning bridges.
Professional Relationships: Maintain good relationships with colleagues and supervisors. You might need their references or network in the future.
Exit Strategy: Plan your exit in a way that allows for a smooth transition. This includes training your replacement or ensuring that ongoing projects are in good hands.
Reputation Management: Leaving on good terms will help preserve your professional reputation, which is crucial in a close-knit market like New Zealand.

8. Plan Your Next Steps

Short-Term Goals: Define your short-term goals for the first few months in your new role. This helps in transitioning smoothly and setting yourself up for success.
Long-Term Vision: Align your new role with your long-term career vision. Ensure that the move contributes to your overall career objectives.
Continuous Learning: As you transition to a new role, keep an eye on continuous learning and development opportunities. The marketing landscape is ever-evolving, and staying updated is crucial.
Network Expansion: Use your new role to expand your professional network. Attend industry events, connect with peers, and stay active in professional communities.

Conclusion

Timing your departure from a company is crucial, especially in the fast-paced world of marketing. By completing significant projects, preparing your resume, and carefully planning your next move, you can ensure that you leave on a high note and transition smoothly into a role that better aligns with your career goals. In New Zealand’s tight-knit market, maintaining strong professional relationships and being strategic about your next step is key to long-term success.