In an alarming exodus, triggered by exhaustion and malaise, a 2023 Sprout Social study unveils 42% of social media marketers plan to quit their roles within the coming two years. Furthermore, 63% have already weathered or are battling the harsh crags of burnout. As corporates heap mounting skills onto a solitary role, it nudges the industry to review their social media assignments, ensuring proportionate compensation, contemplating outsourcing some tasks, and championing employee mental health.
The gripes of being overworked and undervalued aren't a novelty for social media specialists; it's been the grim reality since inception. Today, we see these warriors finally standing up — not to beat their chests but to expose the industry's unscrupulous exploitation. Take the NBA's mishap where a former employee publicly decried the onerous workload, protracted wait times for health insurance, and the toll it all took on their mental well-being. While appalling, this resonated all too well with fellow social media toilers — amplifying an industry-wide outcry.
The sobriety of their strife isn't just mental bearing — it's a business imperative too. Tasked with the frontliners of brand outlook, the social community makers hold immense sway over public perception. This was demonstrated perfectly in the Entertainment Weekly's viral tweet exchange, where the social manager's 'off-script' comment engendered user empathy and lauding. Those expected to own and juggle manifold tasks, barely mindful of the colossal prerequisite each bears, strategic redirection is necessary to steer away from the burnout bend.
True, grimacing at the hustle-hard ethos has been a recurring themetic wave amongst modern marketers. However, the tide is turning; new generations seek rest, mental tranquility, and a humane approach as much as they yearn for success. So what's the workaround for companies? It lies in consistent team check-ins, role reevaluation, and refactoring work distribution. Social media isn't an emergency room; humanity ought to take precedence. If businesses can't show up swiftly without jeopardizing employee wellbeing, they need to change course — because if nothing changes, nothing changes.
Read the full story here.
Subscribe to The Creator Compass - A daily newsletter tailored for the modern creator at the intersection of content, creativity, and commerce. Every edition is a step closer to mastering the digital age!
Subscribe to The Realty Lens - A daily newsletter, where property meets content strategies. Designed for today's real estate aficionados, each installment brings fresh perspectives.
