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The top 4 causes of marketing leader burnout

by | Feb 1, 2023 | Marketing Strategy

How to recognize and prevent burnout for marketing leaders

As a marketing leader, you likely have a passion for creativity and innovation – or at least you used to. But, with the ever-increasing demands of the marketing industry, burnout is becoming an increasingly common issue. 

Burnout isn’t just another excuse to whine about workload or co-workers; it’s a real issue that employers and marketers are faced with. The pressures of managing budgets, delivering results, and keeping up with the latest trends can take a toll on even the most resilient marketing professionals. In this article, we’ll discuss the top reasons for marketing leader burnout and what you can do to avoid it.

Long Hours and Overwork

Marketing leaders are often expected to work long hours, especially during major campaign launches. The pressure to deliver results can lead to overworking, which can have a significant impact on mental and physical health. It’s easy to neglect self-care and healthy habits when spending more time at work than at home. It’s not surprising that more than a third of marketers are burnt out from a lack of work-life balance or not having enough time off. The fast-paced nature of the marketing industry means that there’s always more work to be done, making it difficult to switch off and take a break. 

Lack of Autonomy and Control

Marketing leaders often work in highly structured and regulated environments, where every decision must be approved by a manager or board. This lack of autonomy can be frustrating, especially for those who are used to working independently. The inability to make decisions quickly and easily can lead to burnout and decreased motivation. 

Constant requests for ad hoc projects can lead to feeling out of control. Need a presentation for the board? The marketing manager will handle that. Redesigning the employee newsletter? Marketing can help. Projects like these can disrupt normal work duties and can lead to important tasks that fall through the cracks. 

Constant Change

Marketing is an ever-evolving field, with new trends and technologies emerging constantly. Has Google changed its algorithm again? What are the new rules of cookie tracking? Have regulations for posting on social media networks changed? Keeping up with these changes can be challenging, especially for marketing leaders already stretched for time and resources. The pressure to remain current and relevant can lead to burnout, as marketing leaders feel like they are always falling behind.

High Pressure Environment

Marketing leaders are expected to deliver results quickly and efficiently, and they are often held accountable for the success or failure of a campaign. This high-pressure environment can be stressful, especially when coupled with long hours and limited resources. The constant stress of having to perform can lead to burnout, as marketing leaders feel like they are never able to relax or take a break. 

How do you avoid burnout?

To prevent burnout, it is important to take care of yourself. This includes finding a healthy work-life balance, taking necessary breaks, and making time for self-care. I know that is easier said than done. That’s why it’s also important to communicate with your team and ask for help when needed. Additionally, setting clear priorities and having a well-defined strategy can help you stay focused and motivated.

According to a workplace study by Reclaim AI, 69.4% of marketers say that more time for focused work would help with burnout. More than half of marketers responded that a better work-life balance, including more time off and fewer distractions, would alleviate burnout at work.

Another way to avoid burnout is to outsource to a specialist. Marketers managing multiple campaigns are juggling a lot to help their brands expand into new markets. But working with the right marketing partner can help you scale campaigns across those new regions, helping you regain quality time—and sleep—into your schedule.

Burnout is a common issue for marketing leaders. By understanding the top reasons for burnout and taking steps to prevent it, you can stay motivated and productive, delivering the best results for your team and your customers.

Are you feeling overwhelmed or burned out and need support to accomplish your team’s aggressive goals for growth? Contact us to learn about outsourced marketing services. We’ll help take a load off your shoulders and accomplish your goals.

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