Ways to hire a video editor for your business
Quick insights
- Hiring a video editor may help your business create polished content.
- You can find editors through freelance sites, staffing agencies or work networks.
- Costs may vary based on background, project scope and whether you hire freelance or full-time employees.
If you've been spending your evenings trimming footage for social media posts, you might be looking to bring in help. The right video editor may turn your raw footage into polished content that fits your brand. In this guide, we'll explore things to look for, where you can find candidates and what it might cost.
Some things to consider before you hire a video editor
Before hiring a video editor, it may help to consider the types of videos you want to create. A small business posting short clips on social media may have different needs than one making longer-form content or training videos.
You might also consider whether you need a freelance editor for occasional projects or a full-time editor for ongoing work. If you're leaning toward part-time help, learning about hiring a part-time employee may help you weigh your options. It may also help to consider whether a video editor is the right role for your needs. Related roles, like camera operator or video producer, involve different duties.
Where you might find video editors for your business
There are several channels you might try when searching for video editors, and each may offer different benefits depending on your budget.
- Freelance platforms: Online sites may connect you with editors who work on a per-project basis and let you compare rates.
- Staffing agencies: Agencies may help you find pre-screened options, which could save time if you're looking for a full-time or contract role.
- Networking and referrals: Asking other business owners or contacts for tips may help lead you to qualified editors.
- Local schools: Local colleges and schools with video editing or film classes may be a source of new talent.
- Social media: Many editors share their work on social media and other platforms. Browsing their accounts may give you a sense of their style and background.
How much it may cost to hire a video editor
The cost to hire a video editor may depend on background, project scope and whether you hire a freelancer or full-time employee. Video editors' salaries may range widely depending on experience and location. Freelance editors typically charge by the project or by the hour, and rates may depend on the length of the video and how complex the editing is. If you're working with a limited budget, building a budget may help you plan.
If you're hiring a full-time editor, onboarding costs may also factor into your total spending. For businesses investing in equipment or software, funding for content creation with tools like a credit card may help manage those costs.
Skills you may look for in a video editor
When looking at options, it may help to know which skills matter most to you. You might look for a background with video editing tools and software. The specific program may matter less than their comfort with the tools your project needs. Common editing tasks may include trimming clips, color grading, creating transitions and adding audio. An editor who knows export settings for different platforms may also be beneficial. Beyond technical skills, an editor who meets deadlines could help you keep a steady content calendar. Finally, someone who shares ideas well and takes direction may fit more smoothly into your team.
Some tips for hiring a video editor
Once you've found some options, a few tips may help you check whether they're a good fit.
- Reviewing past work: You might look for work that matches the style and tone you want for your brand.
- Asking about their process: You might ask how they handle feedback and organize files.
- Trying a paid test project: A short, paid test edit may help you check an editor's skills. You might provide a few minutes of raw footage and ask for a short cut with a clear brief.
- Checking response time: How quickly someone responds to messages may inform you about how they work and their communication style.
Once you've chosen an editor, an onboarding checklist may be helpful to get them up to speed.
When it may make sense to hire a video editor
A few signs may indicate that your business could benefit from a video editor. If you're often creating video content but struggling to keep up with editing, it might be time to bring in help. The same may be true if you want to promote your business with more video but don't have the time or skillset to edit it yourself. Adding video content may also support broader efforts to help increase your small business revenue by reaching more customers.
The bottom line
Hiring a video editor may free up your time and help your business produce more polished video content. By clarifying your needs and exploring different hiring channels, you may find someone who fits your budget and business goals.
