When and How to Hire an Editor or Assistant
Hire an editor or assistant when editing or admin takes time you could spend on filming, selling or planning, and when income can cover the cost. Start with a written brief and a small paid test, agree on rates and deadlines, and never share your account password.
Signs you are ready to hire
You may be ready when editing takes most of your week, you are turning down paid work, or quality drops because you are rushed. Hiring makes sense when the time you free up can earn more than the cost.
If income is still irregular, start small, such as outsourcing captions or one video a week, before committing to a monthly arrangement.
Decide exactly what to hand over
List your tasks for a week and mark the ones only you can do, such as appearing on camera or talking to brands. Editing, subtitles, scheduling and inbox sorting are common tasks to hand over.
Write a short style guide: example videos you like, fonts, colours, caption style, pacing and what to avoid. Clear examples save many revision rounds.
Find and test candidates
Ask other creators for referrals or look on freelance platforms and creator communities. Review portfolios for work similar to your style.
Run a paid test with one or two videos using the same raw footage for each candidate. Compare quality, speed, communication and how they handle feedback.
Agree terms and protect your account
Agree in writing on the rate, number of revisions, turnaround time, file delivery and who owns the edited files. Pay on time and keep records of every payment.
Never share your main password. Share raw files through cloud folders and use any team or permission features available instead. Check local rules on hiring freelancers or ask a professional.
Frequently asked questions
Should I pay per video or monthly?
Per video is simpler at first. A monthly arrangement can work once your volume is steady and you know the workload.
How do I keep my style if someone else edits?
Give a style guide and examples, review the first videos closely, and give specific feedback, such as 'cut faster in the first three seconds'.