Here's how you can find media sales career paths with better work-life balance.

1 Assess Needs

Before diving into job listings, take a moment to reflect on what work-life balance means to you. It could be the flexibility to attend your child's school events, the ability to work from home, or simply not having to work on weekends. Understanding your priorities will help you identify media sales positions that align with your lifestyle. Look for roles that specify work-life balance as a core value or offer flexible working arrangements. If this information isn't readily available, don't hesitate to ask about it during interviews.

2 Research Roles

Not all media sales roles are created equal when it comes to work-life balance. Some positions, like those in digital media sales, may offer more flexibility due to the nature of the online environment. Explore various roles and sectors within media sales, such as content marketing, programmatic advertising, or social media platforms, which might offer different working hours or remote work possibilities. Take the time to read job descriptions thoroughly and speak to people in the industry to get insider insights on the day-to-day demands of different roles.

3 Company Culture

The culture of a company can significantly impact your work-life balance. Seek out organizations known for valuing their employees' time outside of work. During your job search, pay attention to reviews on employment websites or reach out to current or past employees on professional networking sites to get a sense of the company's culture. Remember, a company that encourages regular breaks, vacation time, and personal development is more likely to support a balanced lifestyle.

4 Set Boundaries

Once you've landed a role in media sales, setting clear boundaries is essential for maintaining work-life balance. Be upfront about your availability and the hours you are willing to work. Effective communication with your manager and team about your boundaries can help prevent burnout and ensure that you're not consistently working overtime. It's also important to be disciplined about 'switching off' from work during your personal time to fully recharge.

5 Negotiate Terms

Don't shy away from negotiating the terms of your employment for better work-life balance. This might include discussing flexible hours, remote work options, or even a four-day workweek. When negotiating, highlight how these arrangements can benefit both you and the employer, such as increased productivity and job satisfaction. Employers are increasingly recognizing the importance of flexibility and may be open to accommodating your needs if you present a compelling case.

6 Continuous Review

Finding the right balance is an ongoing process. Regularly assess how well your current role is allowing you to manage work and personal life. If you find that work is consistently encroaching on your time, it may be necessary to have a conversation with your employer or consider looking for a new position that better fits your needs for balance. Always stay proactive about your well-being and don't settle for a work situation that negatively impacts your life outside of the office.