What is UGC and how do I leverage it?

What is UGC?

UGC stands for User Generated Content, this is when everyday people create content on the brands behalf. 

You know those TikTok ads that don’t really seem like ads? Those were created by regular people which makes it seem less “salesey” and more authentic. 

UGC is almost like combining word of mouth marketing with influencer marketing, and this is a big reason why it can be very effective.

Now How do I get it to UGC? Where do I start? How do I choose a brand? 

Lets dive in!

UGC content can look like: 

• Reviewing new items or giving blind reactions.

• Fun engaging videos of you using the products.

• Showing how you use the products.

• Unboxing the products.

• Teaching what to look for in that category of product.

• Comparing products to competing brands

• Even replying to comments for brands (I’m curious if you’ve noticed this)

And it’s not just on TikTok:

• Comment sections on the brands business page,

• Articles or blogs written about the product/service

• Images with the product or before & afters

• Instagram stories

• Tweets

• Instagram reels (of course)

• And anything else your 

Ok but Why is it the next big thing?

The last 5 years we saw a rise in influencer marketing (I myself was a fashion, beauty, travel influencer). 

We have also seen a push for social media ads during the past few years (still alive and well) but people don’t love ads. They love real content of real people that doesn’t feel like they are being sold to.

Today in 2022, we aren’t necessarily craving the content of all white perfect kitchens, escalades, and designer everything. We just aren’t. We are craving authenticity, diversity, and relatability centered-content. 

I don’t think influencer marketing is dead, I actually wrote a blog on that subject here, but I don’t think its as effective as it was in the past. 

UGC gives regular people a chance to make amazing money from their homes, which is amazing. 

Some other great things about UGC:

• It’s content creation with out the selling or recruiting. 

This means that Network Marketers don’t have to become affiliated with multiple companies, but more so just create content for the brand.

• You don’t always have to be face to camera (or ever)

If you want to keep your face out of the shot, you totally can.

You might have to get creative though, here are a few ideas:

• You can just use your hands (think of opening up a bottle of face serum or a can of seltzer water).

• You can just take creative product only videos highlighting the texture, quality, color, etc. 

• Do a voice over showing a product.

• Have someone else (friend, family member, co-worker) use the product and film their reaction (with their consent of couse).

• Have the phone cover your face while you do try-ons in the mirror or showcase something.

How to leverage as a brand

If I were a brand leveraging UGC I would write down exactly the types of content I would love to see with our brand. Knowing what you’re looking for but still being open to other forms of content will help you find high-quality and on-brand content creators. 

You can easily start looking for creators by:

• Running content-driven contests with a specific hashtag to easily find the type of creators that fit your desire

• Searching through hashtags of your company name, product name, industry, key words, and maybe even sifting through your competitors hashtags/accounts 

• Look for “product testers” in a result of a testimonial or review

How to leverage as a creator 

Write down a list of categories that get you excited, here are some examples:

• Fashion & beauty

• Travel & Excursions 

• Health & Wellness

• Pets 

• Relationships, dating & Marriage

• Mental Health

The list goes on and on. Finding a category you are passionate about will make this more enjoyable for you while creating partnerships with brands who you resonate with. 

I also think the energetic exchange between you and the viewer will be hugely beneficial in your results.

Whether you are a brand or a creator, you will greatly benefit from our FREE ACCESS YOUR AUTHORITY WORKSHOP September 12 - 16

 You’re invited to join Team Weber Co. for a workshop that will reignite your fire for what you do and the impact you have on your audience.

During this 5 day workshop experience, you’ll learn: 

• What it means to define & claim your authority: 3 fundamentals for establishing an authority brand

• How to leverage your authority in your sales system to create consistent conversions

• A simple marketing approach designed to help you scale in a constantly changing digital landscape

  Register asap to save your seat!