What should I consider before hiring my first employee or contractor?

Spend substantial time before you even begin interviewing to clearly define: what you want this person to do, how you want the role to grow over time, how you’ll support them, and what this will give back to you. Create a proper job description and cast a wide net—post on professional platforms, not just casual Instagram stories. Consider remote candidates from anywhere, which dramatically expands your talent pool. Set clear expectations from the start. The goal should be buying back your creative time—the painting or creating time that actually makes you money and gives you energy. Without this upfront planning, wires get crossed and things don’t work out.

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Asked by an artist preparing to hire help · Answered by Megh Knappenberger · art-marketing-podcast · 2025-04-22