When you’re looking for a job in the marketing industry, oftentimes you narrow down your search by asking yourself - do I want to work in-house or at an agency? Each type of role brings its own pros and cons, but the choice ultimately comes down to what you’re looking to get out of your next position.
In my career, I’ve been fortunate enough to experience both. Before coming to Seer as an SEO Associate, I worked within the marketing department at a healthcare organization. I learned a ton from both positions and enjoyed my time at each of them for different reasons. As I transitioned into my new position at Seer, I took note of a few things I learned to share with others who may be going through similar situations in their careers.
1. Asking Questions Doesn’t Mean You’re Dumb
When working in-house, you are exposed to the entire organization, not just those in the marketing department. You learn the hierarchy of decision makers, you understand how the different departments do or don’t work together, and most importantly, you become a subject matter expert in t your organization’s product/service.
After moving to an agency position, I learned how it can be a challenge to be an arm’s length from all of that information. You are only privy to the information your client is willing to share. Through this, I’ve learned that it is crucial to always be asking questions. By asking probing questions, you will be able to uncover more context about what’s going on on the client’s side rather than just taking their word for it and executing the task.
We talk about this a lot at Seer - check out this blog post for some questions we use when digging in with clients.
2. Flexibility is a Requirement, Not Just a Perk
I didn’t realize how helpful it was to have flexibility in my working hours and location until I didn’t have that. Even though I’m young and don’t have a family to take care of yet, it’s still important to me to have the ability to work from a coffee shop when I have a doctor’s appointment close by or work from home one day, unplanned just because I needed a mental health break from the office.
Having flexible work hours doesn’t just show that company leadership wants to give employees hip “perks” of a typical agency, but it shows they have trust in their employees, which is way more valuable to me.
In-house positions, including mine, have been slow to adopt flexible work options, so that’s something to consider when making your decision.
3. Working with the Best in the Industry Motivates You to Go Beyond Standard Expectations
Once I came to Seer, I was blown away by how smart and motivated everyone here was. Coworkers are always sharing their passion projects, such as learning python over the weekend or testing a new PBI template for keyword research. Having access to so many specialized resources in SEO, Paid Search, & Analytics makes me feel more motivated & push myself to go beyond the standard job requirements of an SEO Associate.
In an in-house position, it’s easier to get comfortable in what you’re doing day-to-day and not feel the need to evolve. At an agency, you’re constantly challenged and pushed out of your comfort zone. You lead with innovation because innovation is how you stand out from the other agencies your client is exposed to.
So, You’re Looking to Make The Switch Like Me?
The next time you’re looking into changing roles and find yourself choosing between an in-house position and an agency role, think about what you want to get out of your next role.
Are you looking to be more challenged at your next position? Do you want to feel like your brain is literally expanding each day when you leave work because you’re learning so much from your coworkers? Lastly, and this one is most important, are you looking for a fun and supportive work environment that prioritizes learning and employee growth?
If you answered yes to all of these questions, head over to our Careers page, because we’re hiring across all departments and levels at Seer!
