INTRODUCTION
Attention Manchester business owners!
You know this already: social media works but only if your content stops the scroll.
Here’s the twist
What most businesses don’t realise is this: visual content isn’t just “nice to have.”
It’s the engine that drives engagement, builds trust, and turns followers into customers.
The #1 mistake? Choosing the first designer you find, without knowing what to look for.
In this guide, you’ll learn exactly how to find the best graphic designer for social media content in Manchester what skills matter, where to look, how much to budget, and how to avoid costly mistakes.
If you wait your competitors might already be upgrading their visuals and stealing attention you deserve.
What Does a Social Media Graphic Designer Do?
A social media graphic designer creates visuals tailor-made to your brand and platforms from Facebook posts and Instagram reels graphics to LinkedIn banners and TikTok thumbnails.
They combine:
- Brand understanding
- Visual storytelling
- Platform-specific design
- Audience psychology
The result? Content that feels familiar, credible, and engaging not generic stock imagery.
Great design doesn’t just look good it boosts clicks, shares, and conversions.
Key Questions Manchester Business Owners Ask
❓ What skills should I look for?
A top designer should have:
✔ Strong portfolio
✔ Branding ability
✔ Social media experience
✔ Knowledge of Manchester audiences
✔ Ability to deliver consistent visuals
How much does a graphic designer in Manchester cost?
Rates vary by experience and project:
| Service | Typical Range (£) |
|---|---|
| Social media graphics (per post) | £20–£80 |
| Branding pack (logo + templates) | £300–£1,200 |
| Monthly content package | £400–£1,500 |
| Reels/animated graphics | £50–£150 per asset |
Remember: value > price. Cheap design often equals low engagement.
Freelance or agency?
Both have advantages:
| Option | Best for | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Freelancer | Smaller budgets, personalise style | Cost-effective, flexible |
| Agency | Full strategy + design support | Broader expertise, reliability |
7 Key Things to Look For in a Designer (and Why)
1. Strong Portfolio
Look for variety, not just one style.
➡ Authority bias: designers with diverse work show real experience.
2. Social Media Focus
Generic graphic design isn’t enough.
➡ Relevance matters: platform requirements differ (IG vs LinkedIn vs TikTok).
3. Branding Consistency
They must match your voice, colours, and messaging.
➡ Familiarity bias audiences trust visuals that feel cohesive.
4. Understanding of UX & Engagement
Good designers know how visuals affect behaviour.
➡ Better design leads to higher retention, shares, and conversions.
5. Communication Skills
Quick, clear replies are essential.
➡ Clarity reduces confusion and builds confidence.
6. Revisions & Collaboration
Ask about their revision policy.
➡ Miscommunication happens the best designers adapt quickly.
7. Knowledge of Analytics
Design must perform, not just look pretty.
➡ Designers who track engagement help refine future content.
Where to Find Top Graphic Designers in Manchester
Here are the best ways to discover talent:
✔ Local Search
Google: “social media graphic designer Manchester”
Look for portfolios, reviews, and case studies.
✔ Freelance Platforms
- Upwork
- Behance
- Dribbble
Filter by location and recent work.
✔ Referrals
Ask fellow Manchester business owners.
Social proof is powerful — a referral reduces hiring risk.
✔ Industry Communities
Creative Meetups, Manchester design groups, networking events.
Meeting talent face-to-face still works.
Secrets Your Competitors Don’t Want You to Know
Here’s why some businesses quietly win on social media:
🔐 They plan content monthly not day-to-day guesswork.
🔐 They use branded templates for consistency.
🔐 They mix static posts with animated graphics and reels.
🔐 They test visuals with real audience feedback.
🔐 They pair visuals with copy that converts.
This isn’t guesswork it’s strategy.
At Social Media Max, we craft visuals that perform not just look pretty:
👉 Social Media Management
👉 Content Creation Services
👉 Brand & Graphic Design
(Internal links placed naturally.)
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Choosing based on price alone
❌ Hiring someone without relevant social experience
❌ Ignoring mobile vs desktop design needs
❌ Forgetting brand consistency
❌ Not asking for source files/templates
These mistakes quietly harm your growth and waste money.
How to Evaluate Candidates, A Quick Checklist
✔ Portfolio quality
✔ Relevant social experience
✔ Clear pricing & deliverables
✔ Communication style
✔ Turnaround time
✔ Revision policy
✔ Local insight (Manchester audiences)
If they check these, you’re on the right track.
Final Thoughts + Call to Action
Before: Social accounts look inconsistent and uninspiring.
After: Visually compelling feed that builds trust, engagement & loyalty.
That’s the power of the right graphic designer.
👉 Ready to hire a top social media graphic designer in Manchester? Contact Social Media Max today and elevate your visual presence.
Don’t wait your competitors already are.