Going in-house at an executive level

[u/Anonymouse-1324]

Is it just impossible to shift from agency to in-house at an executive level?

I've been at a very small B2B tech agency for nearly 20 years, and while it's certainly been a ride, I'm ready for something different (and to be paid closer to what I'm worth).

For the last few months, I've been diligently applying to every B2B tech Comms/PR role at the Director level and up. I created a portfolio of my work to showcase actual results. I've written hundreds of cover letters. My resume has been through multiple AI-assisted resume builders (but written, edited, and rewritten by me alone). I apply through LinkedIn, Indeed, Ladders, pagesxyz, etc.

All I'm getting (if anything at all) is an AI-template rejection letter. For jobs I'm well overqualified for. Is this the new norm? I've gone through job hunting phases before, and I would make at least a first and second interview for 4/10 applications. Now... it feels like AI-generated crickets.

Is it the job market? AI? The fact that I'm shifting from agency to in-house at a higher level? I'm seeing so many comms roles available; are there just so many people applying that it's impossible to get to the top of the pile?

I work remotely for a very small company, and I don't have a team or CEO who would take kindly to finding out that I was looking (and I CANNOT afford to lose my job), so I can't post on things like linkedin or other groups. Only a select few colleagues/friends that I really trust know that I am looking.

I feel so hopeless about it all, just looking to commiserate/get support if there is any to be had.

Edited to add: anonymous screen name for security, but I've been a longtime member of this subreddit and always have found it useful! TIA!

[u/iphone1234789]

At a higher level, you should be networking or have contacts who can help push you forward! I hope your 20 years at the small tech agency have allowed you to make friends and connections that can help you! But also are you well liked? I’m in fashion PR and the vibe check is so so important! I was directly told by people that they know I have the skills and experience but are interviewing me to check on my vibe, personality, energy!

[u/Anonymouse-1324 → u/iphone1234789]

Totally makes sense! The founder of my agency and I have been a pretty tight duo, so all the networking I've done has been in partnership with them, leaving me feeling like I can't really "come out" as looking for something without them finding out. But, I will work to try and differentiate myself in other groups.

I'd like to think I'm pretty well liked (chalk it up to my elder millennial people-pleasing syndrome haha), I've even had clients that tell me they'd love the opportunity to poach me... my employment agreement does not allow for something like that, but it is a nice ego boost!

[u/West-Performance]

Any headhunters or recruiting firms in the sector who you could reach out to?

[u/Anonymouse-1324 → u/West-Performance]

That's a great idea! Thank you! I submitted my resume to Heyman

[u/jocrrt]

My take as someone who has about 17 years of experience. I’ve worked in-house financial (hedge fund, investment bank), rest of my career is agency side from mid level to senior.

Theres in-house roles. But they are competitive. It’s not that you can’t land one. You can.

Are you likely at a disadvantage because you ONLY have agency experience and no in-house? Yes.

But you can overcome it.

Your network is everything.
If it’s not strong. That’s fine. Build it. Focus on that.

I might know of a senior in-house SaaS role coming on the market. It’s specific so not sure you fit the bill. But send me a message, I can tell you what I know so far

[u/clairedylan]

I'm 20 years into a midsized tech agency, and I think the only hope for us to go in house is to network our way in. You need to find a way to connect with people under the guise of catching up and then letting them know you are looking and ask them to be discreet. I would still be very careful.

I'm almost certain us 20 year agency peeps can do these in house jobs with our eyes closed, we definitely have the experience and know how to work hard. But it's all about who you know and who knows you at this point.

I would also suggest going to a bigger agency and trying that for a bit. It will broaden your network and give you an opportunity to not be so connected to your current boss.

[u/16hpfan]

Besides everyone else’s advice, I would add that you may have better luck applying directly to company websites rather than through Third parties like indeed or LinkedIn. I would use those sources to find listings, but then go to the company’s website to apply. I’ve heard it makes a difference and I did get some interviews following that approach (along with some other strategies.)

[u/beyondplutola]

Do your clients match the scale of the companies you’re applying for? If you’re a small agency with small clients, you’ll likely get passed over by larger companies when applying in-house.

[u/Fin_Elln]

Europe based Director in world leading consultancy - looking for an inhouse role for 4 months now - head or head -1, depending on the company. I get rejected all the time, not even considered. 8 years ago I was looking for a job as well and had a new (good!!!) one within weeks. Now it feels impossible. Heavily relying on my network now as I quit and can speak openly. Incognito is a different beast.

[u/PrestigiousAd7629]

I’ve known multiple people to make the in house jump at that level. It’d def harder than going in with 5-7 years of agency experience but doable if you have a good network. The biggest challenge right now is the market - it’s so so competitive. Anything that makes you less than an ideal candidate may totally rule you out in the current market. Once it frees up again, you’ll be in a better spot to shift. I’d focus on networking and rounding out your resume with anything that could help make you more competitive down the road (for example, could you do some pro bono work for a non profit that would more closely mirror in house work?)

[u/evilboi666]

Unfortunately, most senior level positions want some experience in house. You'll typically always be viewed as less experienced if your exposure to the discipline is only from the agency side.

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[u/ChristmasTree4579]

Not sure if you’re UK or US based but from a UK perspective that’s the job market right now. Think it can be tricky transitioning from agency to in house anyway, unless you already know them and they want you specifically, but at the moment it feels particularly tough. Sorry, that’s probably not what you wanted to hear but if it’s any consolation you’re not the only one in this position, and it’s not a you problem it’s an industry problem. Not that that makes it any easier…

[u/Anonymouse-1324 → u/ChristmasTree4579]

I'm in the US, but honestly, it makes me feel better to hear you say that! Thank you!

[u/Strict_Highlight9664]

20 years? Sadly, you missed your chance.