Is It Time to Move On? Clarifying Questions for Marketers Feeling Stuck

Everyone has moments when their career feels…stuck.  

Maybe the campaigns don’t excite you the way they used to. Maybe the promotion you’ve been eyeing never seems to materialize. Or maybe you’ve outgrown your role but aren’t sure what comes next.

Feeling restless in your career isn’t uncommon.  But it’s also not something to ignore. When left unchecked, “stuck” can quietly turn into disengagement, burnout, or missed opportunities. So how do you know if it’s time to move on or if you simply need a reset in your current role? 

Start by asking yourself these questions:  

“Am I still learning and growing?”

Marketing moves quickly. New tools, channels, and strategies emerge constantly. If you’re no longer expanding your skills – or worse, you’re repeating the same work year after year – it may be a sign your role has plateaued. Ask yourself: Am I building expertise that keeps me relevant for the future? 

“Do I feel energized or drained by my work?” 

Every job has less-than-glamorous tasks. But overall, your role should give you more energy than it takes. If Sunday evenings fill you with dread or every project feels like a slog, it may be time to consider whether your role is still the right fit. 

“Am I recognized and valued?”

Recognition matters. If your ideas consistently go unnoticed or you feel invisible to your team, it can chip away at both confidence and motivation. Consider whether you feel your contributions are making a difference. 

“Do I see a future path?”

Career progression isn’t always linear, but you should have some sense of what’s next. If you’ve asked about advancement opportunities and the answer is unclear – or if you’ve outgrown what your company can offer – that’s a signal it might be time to explore finding a job elsewhere. 

“Am I aligned with the company’s mission and values?”

Marketers are storytellers and brand builders. If you don’t believe in the company’s direction or feel disconnected from its values, it becomes difficult to do your best work. Do you genuinely believe in the story you’re telling? 

“Am I staying out of fear or comfort?” 

Sometimes, we stay in roles because it feels easier than changing. But staying for comfort alone can stunt your growth. Reflect on whether you’re motivated by genuine career satisfaction or by the fear of what’s next. 

When the Answers Point to Change 

If these questions spark more doubt in your current role than confidence, it may be time to explore new opportunities. That doesn’t necessarily mean handing in your notice tomorrow, but it might mean: 

• + Talking to your manager about stretch assignments or growth opportunities. 

• + Seeking mentorship or professional development to reignite your skills. 

• + Connecting with a recruiter who specializes in marketing and creative roles to explore what’s out there. 

At the end of the day, your career should challenge, fulfill, and excite you. If it’s not, you owe it to yourself to find a role that does. 

Ready to Explore What’s Next? 

Smart, Savvy + Associates is a recruitment agency that specializes in helping companies find and hire talented marketing, communications, and creative professionals. 

Since 2007, our team of marketers-turned-recruiters have successfully placed hundreds of qualified professionals into companies throughout Vancouver and the surrounding areas. Apply for one of the open opportunities on their job board.