How to utilize UGC for your brand
What is UGC? User-generated content (UGC) is any content—such as photos, videos, reviews, testimonials, or social media posts—created by the community of a brand (customers/clients) rather than the brand itself. It’s organic content that showcases real people using and enjoying a product, service, or experience.
How Can UGC Help Your Brand Grow?
1. It builds social proof & trust
People are more likely to buy from a brand when they see others using and endorsing it. UGC serves as a digital word-of-mouth, making potential customers feel more confident in their purchasing decisions.
2. It increases engagement & reach
Content created by your audience tends to perform better because it feels natural and relatable. Plus, when people share their own content featuring your brand, they introduce you to their own audience, expanding your reach organically.
How can this work for your brand?
Encourage your community to share their experiences with your brand. You can do this through:
Video testimonials: Ask customers to share their feedback in short, authentic videos.
Written testimonials: Highlight customer reviews and stories on your website and social media.
Lifestyle videos including your brand: Encourage customers to show how they use your products or services in their daily lives.
Before-and-after posts: These are particularly effective for beauty, fitness, and wellness brands, showcasing real results.
Want more UGC for your brand but don’t know where to start?
Show appreciation to those who help create it for your brand. You can:
Repost their content and give them a shoutout: Recognizing and featuring UGC creators encourages others to share their own experiences.
Offer discounts or small rewards for those who submit content: Incentives can motivate more customers to share their stories.
Create a loyalty or ambassador program: Engaged customers who regularly create UGC can receive special perks, discounts, or exclusive access to new products.
UGC is NOT a marketing trend…
It’s a powerful way to build trust, engagement, and brand loyalty. People love seeing real people enjoy and recommend a brand—especially one they genuinely like. None of that “paid ad, but I actually don’t use or enjoy the product/service” energy.
Start by encouraging your customers to share their experiences, engaging with their content, and making UGC a core part of your strategy. When used effectively, UGC can become one of your most valuable marketing tools, helping your brand grow.
