I’m a marketing director at a pre-seed stage startup. Was previously a marketing director (promoted to the role) at another startup, though it was a little later stage. I had a really hard time finding another job opp after the first startup, despite seeing a number of opportunities. Only had a handful of interviews, some second or third round. Also have an MBA in marketing from a top 5 program (anywhere from 1-5, depending on the ranking system/publication). Currently frustrated with compensation, issues with startup founder, and the lack of support from other experienced marketers. Wishing I could learn and grow on the job from veteran marketers, as well. I feel stagnated by being the most senior marketer at both of the companies mentioned above. I feel pigeonholed into (early) startups now and not sure how to get out. I wasn’t in business before getting the MBA and think that is hurting me, too. Any good advice/strategies on how to recruit differently or advance my career totally appreciated
Join a larger company and move up?
I would think that a Harvard/ Stanford / Wharton (or similar) mba would get you FANG interviews if that’s more what you’re looking for
Haven’t gotten a lot of interviews (or gotten far) at these, though I’ve applied. This is anecdotal, but it feels like I’m a few years behind since I went down a different path right out of grad school. Like I’m competing with new MBA hires for the same positions.
U got exp, they don't tho, and ur director so u have a lot more hands on exp. Maybe go for a smaller tier 2 companies?
Are you expecting a senior role at an established company? Or are you looking at just getting in? From my experience big companies expect different things with seniority and aren’t comfortable giving much credit for your startup efforts. If you are good, get in at a lower rank and move up fast. I see it happen all the time.
I expect to get in lower than director level, and that’s ok. But I feel like the hiring software/managers may be passing me up due to my title. When you’re seeing it happen, did the person get hired from a personal connection or going through the traditional submission process?
I have seen it pan out both ways. How many years of experience do you have after the MBA?
Four
Even with startup experience expect to come in either as an entry level PM or a level up in a Fang company. If you are good you will move up fast. In the long run it won’t matter. I would suggest updating your LinkedIn profile and making it less title heavy. Once you interview you will get leveled correctly. I know that Msft product vps can’t enter fang at director level easily. Your startup experience doesn’t help much dealing with organizations and their politics. That you learn on the job :)
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No advice other than to commiserate. I'm a former founder that is now pigeonholed by my previous owner experience. Everyone thinks I'm going to leave them to run another business. Don't let it get to you. Just keep putting yourself out there.