I’m interviewing for an associate strategy director role and got feedback from the recruiter that there’s hesitancy about me moving forward because I don’t have enough client relationship / agency experience (I’ve worked agency side only 2 years, so fair). Does anyone have any advice on what to say in response as I interview with senior leadership?

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2 years at an agency as a strategist is mid-wight level at best. Even being an extremely talented strategist, understanding how to add your unique voice to an agency, grow a team, grow a brand, future a brand, create original research, manage clients, etc. comes from doing.

2 years isnt enough time to learn, hone, and prefect these skills. 2 years is enough time to understand a a campaign but not a brand.

The fact they are willing to interview you for ass. Director is impressive. I would take this as a sign to triple down on what you are great at and make a list of what skills director level needs to have and build those skills up.
This means failing and learning from failure. Getting feedback from junior and taking it to heart. And find a mentor thay can grow your skills and champion you.

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Ty ty, all fair. Hoping that at the least I can position myself as ambitious and this is the role and leadership I wanna grow into next. And my condolences during this difficult time at madwell 🫡🫡

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I would try to shift this "weakness" in your experience to being a strength. What would *your* unique experience allow you to bring to the role that someone with a more straightforward path couldn't necessarily bring to the job? Try to reframe it in your mind into a positive and present it that way to them. I think that's your best bet!

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Sounds like you might have client side experience? Or other experience? If so identify how that gives insight into different organization dynamics.

However I agree 2 years is mid at best so think hard about whether better for you to hone your skills before taking a more senior role. It might ultimately get you to where you want to grow into more quickly and with a better foundation.

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It’s not about what’s best for you - it’s about what level of leadership/ management works for the company and is allocated for in scope.

If I were you I would demonstrate how you’ve worked directly with clients to advise and make strategic recommendations that were well received. And come with examples that demonstrate the skills they’re looking for.

How’d it go? Did you have the leadership interview?

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Hi
Hope you are doing well

I was working with Mindtickle.
And unfortunately got laidoff from Talent Acquisition team.

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