The ongoing debate: agency side vs client side

Oct 26, 2015 1:24:24 PM

My role involves instigating a career move so the debate seems to be a daily talking point for me, even in the recruitment industry it seems to be somewhat of an ongoing debate. So what’s the conclusion? Which is more fruitful? Which direction should I steer my career in?

I work agency side myself so I’ll try to keep this as unbiased as possible. 

I speak to a lot of candidates about their career paths and what they have in mind for their next position. It would seem everyone has a different spin and opinion on what is the best path to take to ensure maximum enjoyment and progression. I’ve hand-picked a few reasons I have heard from both sides (does this make me unbiased?!) and I’ll draw my conclusion under it all and that will be end of it ok?

Agency vs client side

  • Fast paced – I love the buzz, the banter (shiver), the environment – working with likeminded/ skilled individuals
  • Wide range of clients in multiple industries – where else can I be exposed to so much?
  • Latest technology and all the resources I will ever need
  • Structure – a clear set hierarchy where the career progression is carved in stone
  • Adaptable – the opportunity to broaden/ specialise – it’s all here!

Client vs agency side

  • Part of it, I work here and am one the team!
  • Undefined – I’m in charge of my own role, I can create and mould it myself
  • Brand –  true advocate of what I’m part of
  • Autonomy – I’m the specialist, I’m the go to person for this channel, I take the lead
  • Experience – good exposure to the entire business and the bigger picture

So there we have it, clear as mud – pick which points appeal to you most and go with that.

Ultimately, it comes down to personal experience. I’m sure in some cases none of the above exist in your client/ agency side role and vice versa. There are some amazing client/ agency side roles available and equally some not so good ones.

That being said, there is one factor which sticks out like a red panda to me and that is being part of something. I remember speaking to a candidate that had serviced a client from small start up to global giant but the underlying factor for him was that he wasn’t part of it, he was just servicing a client – so business and employees will always be remembered for their substantial growth over a short amount of time, but the agency and employee certainly won’t.

My final advice would be to approach everything with an open mind, meet as many people as you can and you may just surprise yourself with what you end up enjoying.

Did you enjoy this post by our search marketing panda, Josh? He's the go to guy if you are looking for a search role, or hoping to fill a vacancy! Why not connect with Josh on LinkedIn

What do you think?

Share your thoughts on this post - whether you agree, disagree or have your own insight to share, we want to hear from you!

panda-blog-icon

Subscribe to the cranberry panda blog

Don’t want to miss out on ecommerce news, insights and recruitment gossip? Subscribe to ‘The Panda Express’ updates!