Almost half of marketers surveyed ( 47%) said that their employers had not provided any form of wellbeing support since pandemic lockdown restrictions began in March. 

Of the 575 marketing professionals who participated in the research, a third ( 32%) rated their wellbeing as ‘positive’ – half of the level reported prior to restrictions being put in place ( 64%). The proportion of marketers rating their wellbeing as ‘negative’ increased from 8% before lockdown to 28%.

A quarter ( 25%) of respondents said a lack of social interaction was the greatest challenge to their wellbeing. The research also suggests that younger members of staff are more likely to experience social isolation, with those born after 1995 (Gen Z) over a third ( 38%) more likely to report feeling isolated than Gen X colleagues.

The survey from the CIM and recruitment firm Hays was conducted between 23rd April–4th May. The survey received 16,228 responses from both employees and employers, including responses from 575 employees who work in marketing.

Gemma Butler, director of marketing at CIM, said: “Employers have a duty of care to their employees and these findings paint a worrying picture, suggesting a widespread lack of support. All of us are navigating uncharted waters, but we must continue to act with professionalism and compassion. Whether it’s a simple call, regular communications or maintaining development through different support mechanisms, all serve to help teams feel supported and valued.”