Hiring a Creative Employee vs. working with a Freelancer or Agency
Creative Employee or Contractor…?
Marketing your business is tough and building your creative team comes with it’s own set of challenges. The decision between hiring a creative employee, working with a freelancer, or navigating contracts with an agency is more than a matter of cost—it's a strategic choice that can significantly impact your brand's content quality and marketing success. Our team navigated these waters both in corporate America and as a freelance consultant. Here's a deep dive into what each option offers and how to make the best choice for your business.
Understanding Your Options
In-House Creatives: Hiring an internal team member offers direct control over your projects and ensures that the creative aligns closely with your brand vision. However, LinkedIn reports that the average cost of hiring and training a new employee can exceed $4,000, not including salary,benefits, editing stations, and production expenses.
Freelancers: Freelancers provide flexibility and specialized skills for specific projects. According to Upwork, 73% of hiring managers plan to continue or increase their use of freelancers, citing cost efficiency and access to a broader talent pool as key benefits.
Agencies: Partnering with an agency offers a comprehensive suite of services, from strategy to execution. A HubSpot survey found that 57% of companies feel that outsourcing helps them focus more on their core business, although it can come at a higher cost.
Making the Right Choice
The decision should be based on your project's scope, budget, and long-term needs. Here are some considerations:
Project Complexity: For large-scale or ongoing projects, an agency might offer all the necessary services you need. For one-off projects or specialized tasks, a freelancer could be the ideal fit.
Budget Constraints: Freelancers typically offer more flexible pricing models than agencies or the fixed costs associated with hiring an employee.
Brand Alignment: An in-house creative can immerse themselves in your brand culture, ensuring consistent messaging across all content.
Getting Ready, Almost Ready, Ready…Just Start!
Each option presents unique advantages and challenges. By carefully assessing your project needs, budget, and strategic goals, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your business objectives and drives your brand forward.
For more insights on building effective marketing and videography teams, check out the work and information on our social media pages: https://www.instagram.com/wheelhouse.brandco/