Article
GOOD vs BAD Leadership – How It Impacts Your Career
March 10, 2025
Last week, I caught up with a marketer who had just landed an exciting senior role, and their enthusiasm was contagious! They couldn't stop raving about their new leader - and for good reason.
Why is their leader so great?
- They never take credit for my work - recognition is given where it's due.
- They actively encourage me to engage with the C-Suite to develop my leadership skills.
- I receive regular, constructive feedback that helps me grow.
- Communication is open, clear, and consistent - no second-guessing expectations.
- The team culture is supportive, inspiring, and genuinely enjoyable.
Sound like a dream? Well, it should be the standard!
But here’s the harsh reality - great leadership isn’t always the norm. I also spoke to a marketer who is having the opposite experience, and the contrast is stark.
Why is their leader so difficult to work under?
- They manage with fear, creating a “yes” culture where no one dares to push back.
- Team members feel that disagreement equals a risk of being fired.
- Ideas and opinions are dismissed, leaving employees feeling undervalued.
- The office tension is unbearable - it’s a daily battle just to get through the day.
- They’re actively looking for a way out because the environment is draining.
Two very real, very different versions of leadership. And believe it or not, 1 in 3 leaders exhibit toxic behaviours that negatively impact their teams. If you find yourself working under a leader who makes your work life miserable, it’s time to take action.
What Can You Do if You're Stuck with a Bad Leader?
Not every situation allows for a quick exit, so here are some strategies to help you navigate the storm while protecting your career and wellbeing:
- Document Everything – Keep records of key conversations, emails, and decisions. This can be invaluable if you need to escalate issues or make a case for a move.
- Understand Their Triggers – While it shouldn’t be your responsibility to manage your boss’s emotions, understanding their pressure points can help you avoid unnecessary conflicts.
- Stay Professional – It’s easy to let frustration take over, but keeping your cool ensures that you maintain your credibility. Never let a bad leader drag you down to their level.
- Find Allies – Chances are, you’re not alone in this. Build relationships with trusted colleagues who can validate your experiences and provide support.
- Seek a Mentor – Having a mentor outside your organisation can provide clarity, guidance, and an objective perspective on how to navigate the situation.
- Leverage External Networks – Stay engaged with marketing communities, industry events, and professional groups. Expanding your network can open doors to better opportunities and a healthier work environment.
The Good News? Great Leaders DO Exist!
If you’re struggling under poor leadership, don’t lose hope. There are leaders out there who will champion your success, invest in your growth, and create workplaces where you can truly thrive.
Whether you’re looking for your next role or simply seeking advice on navigating tough workplace dynamics, New Chapter Talent is here to help. Our network is filled with exceptional marketing leaders who know how to bring out the best in their teams—and we’d love to introduce you to them.
If you’re ready for a change, let’s chat. Your next great leader is out there!
Contact Lucy
Need help finding your next marketing role? We’re here to connect top talent with the right opportunities. At New Chapter Talent, we understand the marketing landscape and can guide you towards the roles that best fit your skills and aspirations - get in touch with us today! Feel free to contact Lucy...
✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au
📞 +61 416 153 144
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭
𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕
𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫
Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities, follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn.
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On Thursday 11 September , more than 90 marketers, founders, students, and industry leaders came together in Melbourne for The Future of Marketing panel event hosted by The Marketing Club AU/NZ . The evening explored what’s next for our industry across content, brand, AI, recruitment, education, strategy, and research , with insights from some of the brightest minds in marketing. We were proud to see Lucy Bolan, Director of New Chapter Talent , representing the recruitment and hiring perspective, joining an incredible line-up of speakers. Panel 1: Fresh Thinking in Marketing 🎙️ Ebony Tewierik – Senior Marketing Manager, KeepCup 🎙️ Ebony Coatsworth – Social Media Executive, Melbourne Social Co 🎙️ Sarah No – Director of Brand & Marketing, BlueRock 🎙️ Indianna Symons – Executive Podcast Producer, Lost in Sound Panel 2: The Future of Marketing Careers 🎙️ Lucy Bolan – Director, New Chapter Talent 🎙️ Catherine Toms – Founder, AI Growth Academy 🎙️ Daniel Rayne – Marketing Lecturer, RMIT University 🎙️ Casey Kudrenko – Strategic Client Partner, Ideally Together, both panels shared powerful perspectives on where marketing is heading and how individuals and teams can stay ahead of the curve. A Bubble Bath of Change When asked to describe the current state of the industry, Lucy summed it up in one memorable line: 👉 “A bubble bath of change!” That opening sentiment, along with those of the panellists, sparked a rich discussion about the pace of transformation and the opportunities it presents for marketers who are ready to adapt. Hiring Trends Under the Spotlight Lucy also highlighted the key shifts she’s seeing in marketing recruitment: AI & Upskilling – Employers want marketers who can embrace martech, improve efficiency, and use insights to drive personalisation. ROI Under Pressure – Marketers are under more scrutiny than ever to prove the commercial impact of their work. T-Shaped Marketers – Specialists with deep expertise and strong knowledge across the wider marketing mix (brand, SEO, content, performance, CRM) are highly sought after. Soft Skills Matter – Curiosity, bravery, and innovative thinking are becoming just as important as technical expertise. Key Takeaways from the Evening Across both panels, a number of consistent themes emerged—practical, actionable advice that every marketer can apply: AI is here to stay - embrace it Pair AI with a strong brand strategy to ensure consistency and authenticity Emotional intelligence matters - stay focused on the people you’re trying to connect with Networking is critical to the future of marketing Stay curious and keep learning Soft skills will set you apart in a competitive recruitment market Listen more - the best marketers pay attention before they act Don’t be afraid to ask for help or seek clarity by asking questions Strive to be a T-shaped marketer with both deep expertise and broad knowledge Adaptability is key - be ready to pivot with change Find a mentor to help you grow and navigate your career Insights & Connection From the rise of AI and automation to the enduring importance of creativity and human connection, both panels left attendees with practical strategies to help future-proof their careers. And beyond the insights, the networking was just as valuable. With more than 90 attendees, the room buzzed with conversation, ideas, and new connections between marketers, students, founders, and hiring managers. Thank You A huge thank you to The Marketing Club AU/NZ for curating such a forward-thinking event, to Lost in Sound for partnering and supporting with their expertise in podcasting and content, and to BlueRock for generously hosting us in their Melbourne space. Events like these show just how powerful it is when the marketing community comes together to share ideas, collaborate, and imagine the future. At New Chapter Talent , we’re committed to helping marketers thrive through change, whether that’s taking the next step in their career or building future-ready teams. Lucy’s contribution to The Future of Marketing was part of that mission, and we’re excited to keep these conversations going.
As the marketing job market begins to show signs of recovery in Australia and New Zealand, many professionals are brushing off their CVs and stepping back into the interview room after months—or even years—away. But here’s the challenge: knowing your experience inside-out doesn’t always mean you can clearly communicate it under pressure. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve noticed a recurring theme with marketers we support: the STAR technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result)—a framework many interviewers expect—is often misunderstood or underused. And when nerves or self-doubt creep in, it becomes even harder to tell your career story with confidence. Whether you’re a Marketing Manager, Digital Specialist, or Head of Brand, here’s how you can prepare and deliver STAR-powered interview answers that make you stand out. Why the STAR Technique Matters for Marketing Interviews The STAR technique helps structure your answers so hiring managers can quickly understand not just what you did , but how you did it and the measurable impact. Situation : Provide context—what was happening? Task : What were you responsible for? Action : What did you actually do? Result : What was the outcome, ideally with metrics? In marketing interviews, this framework is especially valuable. It allows you to highlight creativity, problem-solving, and business impact while avoiding rambling or getting stuck in unnecessary detail. 5 Practical Tips to Nail Your STAR Responses Here are some actionable steps we’ve been sharing with our marketing network: 1. Put Pen to Paper List your top three accomplishments from your last role. What was the mandate? How did you deliver it? What were the results? For example: “I was tasked with revitalising customer engagement. I led the rollout of a new CRM program, introducing segmentation and automation. As a result, email open rates increased by 25% and churn reduced by 12% within six months.” 2. Reflect on Challenges Think about three significant challenges you’ve faced in your career. How did you navigate them? Marketing roles often involve tight budgets, shifting consumer trends, or new tech adoption—these are great opportunities to showcase adaptability and resilience. 3. Show Stakeholder Influence Marketing isn’t just about campaigns—it’s about collaboration. Prepare an example where you influenced a senior stakeholder, brought a cross-functional team onside, or shifted a business mindset. This shows leadership and strategic influence beyond day-to-day delivery. 4. Practice Out Loud It might feel awkward at first, but practising your answers out loud will help you tighten your delivery. Aim to be clear, concise, and confident. Try recording yourself or running through answers with a recruiter, mentor, or trusted friend. 5. Ditch the Jargon Avoid buzzwords like “synergy,” “best-in-class,” or “cutting-edge.” Instead, talk about impact in real, relatable terms. Employers are far more impressed with results than with corporate clichés. Common Mistakes Marketers Make in Interviews Through countless interview coaching sessions, we’ve noticed a few pitfalls: Overloading on detail – STAR answers should be sharp and structured, not an essay. Focusing on tasks, not outcomes – Results are what count. Did you increase ROI? Drive engagement? Improve brand equity? Undervaluing soft skills – Influence, collaboration, and resilience are just as critical as campaign results. Not tailoring answers – Align your examples with the specific role and company. Final Thoughts Interviewing is a skill—and like any skill, it improves with preparation and practice. If it’s been a while since your last interview, don’t leave it to chance. Rehearse with a recruiter, mentor, or trusted colleague. Mock interviews can surface blind spots and help you sharpen your story. In a competitive marketing job market, mastering the STAR technique could be the difference between blending in and standing out. By reflecting on your achievements, practising delivery, and focusing on real impact, you’ll be ready to tell a compelling career story that resonates with employers. ✅ Looking for your next marketing role in Australia or New Zealand? At New Chapter Talent, we specialise in connecting top marketing talent with leading brands. Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs H iring top marketing talent? Get in touch ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles
In the world of marketing recruitment , it’s not uncommon to hear senior professionals say: “It’s been years since I’ve had to formally interview; my last few roles all came via a tap on the shoulder.” And while that may sound like the dream scenario – being directly approached, skipping the panel interviews, and sliding straight into a new role – it can also be a dangerous shortcut. At New Chapter Talent, we’ve seen firsthand how skipping a formal marketing interview can lead to misalignment, frustration, and even short-lived appointments. The Allure of the “Tap on the Shoulder” For many senior marketers, opportunities often come through networks, reputation, or past colleagues. That “tap on the shoulder” can feel flattering – a recognition of your experience and track record. But here’s the risk: without a structured process, both sides miss the chance to properly test alignment. Recently, I spoke to a senior marketer three months into a new role. Their story was all too familiar: A few coffees with the GM Some warm, unstructured conversations An offer on the table No formal interview. No panel. No testing of values or expectations. The result? They’re now miserable. The role wasn’t what was promised; they’re being micromanaged, and the cultural alignment simply isn’t there. Why Interviews Still Matter for Senior Marketing Roles Even if you’re highly experienced, interview readiness is crucial. Interviews aren’t just about impressing the employer – they’re also about protecting your own career. Here’s what a structured process gives you: A chance to ask tough questions – about leadership style, company culture, resources, and expectations. The opportunity to identify red flags early – before you resign from your current role or commit to something that isn’t the right fit. Alignment on scope and priorities – so you don’t step into a role that looks completely different once you start. A level playing field – ensuring you’re assessed fairly alongside other candidates, not just hand-picked without scrutiny. The Cost of Skipping the Process When senior marketers bypass the interview stage, it can lead to: Misaligned expectations between the employer and employee Higher turnover in marketing leadership roles Frustration on both sides Damage to reputation if things don’t work out Sometimes, the most flattering offer is the one you should treat with the most caution. How to Prepare for Senior Marketing Interviews If it’s been years since your last formal interview, don’t panic – but don’t go in unprepared either. Here are some quick steps to boost your interview readiness : Refresh your story – Be clear about your achievements, leadership style, and the value you bring. Do your research – Understand the company’s market position, growth strategy, and challenges. Prepare questions – Go beyond surface-level queries. Ask about team dynamics, decision-making processes, and measures of success. Practice – Even experienced marketers benefit from a mock interview to sharpen their delivery and boost their confidence. Final Thoughts The interview process is not just a box-ticking exercise – it’s a safeguard. It helps both companies and candidates make better, more informed decisions. So, while the “tap on the shoulder” can feel flattering, skipping interviews can cost you far more than a few hours of nerves. At New Chapter Talent, we work with senior marketing professionals across Australia and New Zealand to ensure the right match between talent and opportunity – not just a quick appointment. Because the right role should feel like a long-term partnership, not a short-term misstep. Contact Lucy Ready to start your next chapter? Looking for a new role? Explore our current marketing jobs H iring top marketing talent? Get in touch ✉️ lucy@newchaptertalent.com.au 📞 +61 416 153 144 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐓𝐚𝐥𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝑵𝒆𝒘 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒕 𝐍𝐞𝐰 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫 Or connect with me ~ Lucy on LinkedIn ~ as I'll share all the insights on recruitment you could ask for! For more updates, career tips, and job opportunities , follow New Chapter Talent on LinkedIn . New Chapter Talent – Your specialist partner in: Marketing Jobs | Digital Marketing Jobs | eCommerce Jobs | CRM Jobs | CX Jobs | Product Jobs | Brand Jobs | Creative Jobs | Communications Jobs | Category Jobs | Executive Marketing Roles
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