UGC Creator: What It Is and How to Become One
In recent years, a new type of content creator has emerged on social media platforms: UGC creators. These individuals are able to monetize their content without needing a large following, making it an attractive option for those looking to break into the influencer industry.
Chances are, even if you haven’t heard the term “UGC creator,” you’ve come across their content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This guide will provide a step-by-step process for becoming a UGC content creator.
Quick note: Not sure what UGC means? It stands for user-generated content, which is essentially any content created about your brand but not by your brand—instead, by real-world shoppers.
What is a UGC creator?
A UGC creator is an individual who produces sponsored content that appears genuine, but is intended to highlight a specific business or product. Video is a common format for UGC creators, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Creators usually film and narrate the content from their perspective, which gives it an authentic feel.
The primary distinction between UGC content creators and influencers is that UGC creators create and deliver content to businesses without the obligation to post it on their channels (although some UGC deals may add this for an extra fee). With influencers, the company often pays for both content creation and exposure to the influencer’s audiences.
UGC content also tends to appear less polished and professional than influencer content, which helps to preserve the authenticity of UGC. Additionally, UGC creators aren’t required to have a large following or a specific niche, making it possible for anyone to become a UGC creator.
How to become a UGC creator
Creating content is a great way to showcase your creativity and earn money. Anyone with a decent smartphone or camera can become a UGC creator. You don’t need a bunch of followers or professional video editing skills. That’s the beauty of UGC—the more authentic and natural the content is, the better.
Here are five steps to get started as a UGC creator.
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Step 1: Figure out your filming setup
You can shoot UGC almost anywhere—at home, outside, or in a store (as long as there isn’t too much background noise). Many UGC creators create content in the comforts of their homes, where they can perfect their filming setup.
In terms of equipment, you only need a phone with a decent camera and a tripod to stabilize your phone for product shots. Some optional upgrades include a ring light, lavalier mic, backdrops, and props. Don’t let the quality of your equipment or filming setup hold you back. Many UGC creators produce great content with just a phone, the product, and themselves. Once you get more experienced and start receiving feedback from brands, you can upgrade your equipment and setup.
Step 2: Build your UGC portfolio
To create UGC content, you need products. However, brands will only send you products once you have a portfolio. Start by making content for free featuring your favorite products. You don’t need permission from brands as long as you don’t portray it as a paid deal or sponsored content if you choose to post it.
There are several common types of UGC content: unboxing, review/testimonial, and how-to/use cases. When you’re just building your portfolio, focus on videos, as this is arguably the most common format for UGC requests. Aim to have at least one example of each type of UGC to show versatility and appeal to more brands.
Step 3: Practice your editing skills
Once you’ve recorded your clip(s), the next step is to edit them. A good length for UGC videos is 15–60 seconds. It can be tricky to learn how to edit videos, but luckily there are many apps to make it easier.
Two of the most popular apps are CapCut and InShot. The in-app editors within TikTok and Instagram are also quite user-friendly and have many of the same features as third-party apps.
Practice, practice, practice! There’s no shortcut to becoming a master at video editing. The more you get used to the tools, the quicker you’ll get.
Step 4: Post your UGC (optional)
Posting your content isn’t generally required as part of UGC contracts. However, it’s an excellent way to practice and get feedback on how to improve your content. Even with a small audience, you can learn what works and what doesn’t work by checking the analytics for your posts. Posting your UGC on your account also allows brands to see your content, after which they may reach out to you to offer UGC gigs.
If you want to increase the chances of brands discovering your UGC, don’t use hashtags like #UGC or #UGCcreator—these will signal the algorithm to serve your content to other UGC creators. Instead, use industry- and product-related hashtags. Secondly, add your email (or another way to contact you) to your bio to make it easy for brands to reach out to you.
Step 5: Get paid
Once you have a portfolio, you can start applying for UGC gigs. To increase your chances of getting hired, tailor your portfolio to the brand and industry you’re applying to. Research the brand’s values and aesthetic, and create content that aligns with them. You can also reach out to brands directly and pitch your services. Don’t be afraid to negotiate your rates, but also be realistic about what you’re worth.
4 tips for getting paid as a UGC creator
1. Use platforms to find brand deals
With the increase in user-generated content (UGC), new platforms are emerging to facilitate UGC brand deals. Some UGC platforms post opportunities for creators to apply, while others require creators to create a listing for their content creation services.
Some platforms to search for UGC opportunities include Fiverr, Upwork, Billo, Insense, and Brands Meet Creators. These platforms make it easy to apply for brand deals without having to search for brands or their contact information.
2. Network with brands and business owners
Networking via platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and TikTok is an excellent way to be proactive and work with specific brands. You can use these platforms for personal branding by posting updates on their account, sharing their journey as a UGC creator, and adding a call-to-action for brands to contact them for UGC.
You can also engage in cold outreach by identifying brands you genuinely like and reaching out to folks who work at those companies. Smaller companies like startups and small businesses just starting to build their social media presence often need UGC.
3. Perfect your pitch
Pitching yourself to a brand for a UGC opportunity is like applying for a job. As more and more people become UGC creators, it becomes more competitive. So you need to make your pitch stand out.
Focus your pitch on the brand and the value you’ll provide for them through UGC. Tailor your pitch for each opportunity you apply to and curate examples in your portfolio that are relevant to each brand’s industry and target audience.
4. Know your worth
As with influencer marketing, payment rates for UGC creation vary widely. The brand or platform usually sets the rate for brand deals.
Nonetheless, staying up-to-date with market rates will empower creators to choose deals that pay fairly. This benefits creators and ensures equitable compensation for other UGC creators.
You can follow UGC creators on TikTok and Instagram, as they often post content sharing behind-the-scenes details on how they negotiate brand deals and how much they get paid.
The benefits of UGC creators
There are many benefits of UGC creators. Knowing these benefits will help you communicate your value to the brands you want to work with.
Build authenticity
UGC creators are skilled at creating content that emulates traditional UGC, which has an organic feel that can’t be matched by brands. This makes it more eye-catching and engaging, which is invaluable to brands. UGC is the social media equivalent of product reviews and word-of-mouth. As such, it feels authentic and is more likely to drive sales.
Saves money
Working with influencers can be expensive, as brands need to pay for both the content and the posts on the influencer’s channels. With UGC content, brands only need to pay for the content itself, which often can be the same quality (or better) than the content from influencers. It also gives them complete control over the distribution and positioning of the content.
Influences purchase decisions
UGC acts as social proof, showing that real people are buying and using a product, which can drive more sales. Moreover, UGC doesn’t look like a blatant ad, which can make it more engaging when used in ad campaigns. Many brands pay to get UGC to use in social media posts and ads because it influences purchase decisions.
Saves time
By sourcing content from UGC creators, a brand can get way more pieces than if it created them in-house. Brands can distribute a UGC brief to multiple creators, who will produce and deliver the content back to the brand by the same deadline. This is faster than producing content from scratch, and it’s also more cost-effective.
Start your UGC creator venture today
Becoming a UGC creator requires some hustle and work upfront, but it can be well worth the effort if you do it right. Using platforms like Trend by soona makes it easier. Trend by soona is a UGC marketplace which helps creators and ecommerce brands generate authentic content.
Get to know more about Trend by soona >
UGC creator FAQs
How many followers do you need to get paid as a UGC creator?
As a UGC creator, you don’t need a specific number of followers to get paid. Many UGC brand deals are content-only, which means creators only need to create and deliver content without any obligation to post it on your own channels. Therefore, the focus should be on creating high-quality content that resonates with the brand’s target audience.
How do you find brands to work with?
The easiest way to find brands looking for UGC creators is to use platforms that curate UGC brand deals. Alternatively, brands may advertise call-outs for UGC creators in their feed posts or Stories. You can also pitch to brands directly by sending them a DM with your proposal if they are open to working with UGC creators.
How do you create a UGC portfolio?
Creating a UGC portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills and attracting potential brand partners. You can use free tools like Canva or Google Slides to create your portfolio. If you need help getting started, check out free brand pitch deck templates available online. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and highlight your unique style and approach.
What are some of the best UGC platforms for creators?
- YouTube
- TikTok
- Twitch
How can you become a successful UGC creator in 2023?
To become a successful UGC creator in 2023, you need to have a unique style, consistency, and creativity. Creators must be passionate about their content and be willing to invest time and effort into creating quality content. They should also engage with their audience and take feedback to improve their content.
What are some examples of successful UGC creators on YouTube?
- PewDiePie
- Shane Dawson
- Lilly Singh
- Casey Neistat
Do UGC creators make money from their content?
Yes, UGC creators can make money from their content. They can earn revenue through ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and donations from their audience. However, the amount of money a UGC creator can make depends on various factors such as their audience size, engagement rate, and monetization strategy.
What is the legal status of being a UGC creator?
UGC creators must ensure their content does not infringe on any copyright laws or violate any community guidelines. They must also obtain permission from the original creators of any content they use in their videos. Failure to do so can result in legal action being taken against them.
How much should one pay a UGC creator for their work?
The amount a UGC creator can charge for their work depends on various factors such as their experience, the type of content they create, and your budget. It’s essential to research industry rates and pay a fair price for their work.
UGC Creator: What It Is and How to Become One
In recent years, a new type of content creator has emerged on social media platforms: UGC creators. These individuals are able to monetize their content without needing a large following, making it an attractive option for those looking to break into the influencer industry.
Chances are, even if you haven’t heard the term “UGC creator,” you’ve come across their content on platforms like TikTok and Instagram. This guide will provide a step-by-step process for becoming a UGC content creator.
Quick note: Not sure what UGC means? It stands for user-generated content, which is essentially any content created about your brand but not by your brand—instead, by real-world shoppers.
What is a UGC creator?
A UGC creator is an individual who produces sponsored content that appears genuine, but is intended to highlight a specific business or product. Video is a common format for UGC creators, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Creators usually film and narrate the content from their perspective, which gives it an authentic feel.
The primary distinction between UGC content creators and influencers is that UGC creators create and deliver content to businesses without the obligation to post it on their channels (although some UGC deals may add this for an extra fee). With influencers, the company often pays for both content creation and exposure to the influencer’s audiences.
UGC content also tends to appear less polished and professional than influencer content, which helps to preserve the authenticity of UGC. Additionally, UGC creators aren’t required to have a large following or a specific niche, making it possible for anyone to become a UGC creator.
How to become a UGC creator
Creating content is a great way to showcase your creativity and earn money. Anyone with a decent smartphone or camera can become a UGC creator. You don’t need a bunch of followers or professional video editing skills. That’s the beauty of UGC—the more authentic and natural the content is, the better.
Here are five steps to get started as a UGC creator.
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Step 1: Figure out your filming setup
You can shoot UGC almost anywhere—at home, outside, or in a store (as long as there isn’t too much background noise). Many UGC creators create content in the comforts of their homes, where they can perfect their filming setup.
In terms of equipment, you only need a phone with a decent camera and a tripod to stabilize your phone for product shots. Some optional upgrades include a ring light, lavalier mic, backdrops, and props. Don’t let the quality of your equipment or filming setup hold you back. Many UGC creators produce great content with just a phone, the product, and themselves. Once you get more experienced and start receiving feedback from brands, you can upgrade your equipment and setup.
Step 2: Build your UGC portfolio
To create UGC content, you need products. However, brands will only send you products once you have a portfolio. Start by making content for free featuring your favorite products. You don’t need permission from brands as long as you don’t portray it as a paid deal or sponsored content if you choose to post it.
There are several common types of UGC content: unboxing, review/testimonial, and how-to/use cases. When you’re just building your portfolio, focus on videos, as this is arguably the most common format for UGC requests. Aim to have at least one example of each type of UGC to show versatility and appeal to more brands.
Step 3: Practice your editing skills
Once you’ve recorded your clip(s), the next step is to edit them. A good length for UGC videos is 15–60 seconds. It can be tricky to learn how to edit videos, but luckily there are many apps to make it easier.
Two of the most popular apps are CapCut and InShot. The in-app editors within TikTok and Instagram are also quite user-friendly and have many of the same features as third-party apps.
Practice, practice, practice! There’s no shortcut to becoming a master at video editing. The more you get used to the tools, the quicker you’ll get.
Step 4: Post your UGC (optional)
Posting your content isn’t generally required as part of UGC contracts. However, it’s an excellent way to practice and get feedback on how to improve your content. Even with a small audience, you can learn what works and what doesn’t work by checking the analytics for your posts. Posting your UGC on your account also allows brands to see your content, after which they may reach out to you to offer UGC gigs.
If you want to increase the chances of brands discovering your UGC, don’t use hashtags like #UGC or #UGCcreator—these will signal the algorithm to serve your content to other UGC creators. Instead, use industry- and product-related hashtags. Secondly, add your email (or another way to contact you) to your bio to make it easy for brands to reach out to you.
Step 5: Get paid
Once you have a portfolio, you can start applying for UGC gigs. To increase your chances of getting hired, tailor your portfolio to the brand and industry you’re applying to. Research the brand’s values and aesthetic, and create content that aligns with them. You can also reach out to brands directly and pitch your services. Don’t be afraid to negotiate your rates, but also be realistic about what you’re worth.
4 tips for getting paid as a UGC creator
1. Use platforms to find brand deals
With the increase in user-generated content (UGC), new platforms are emerging to facilitate UGC brand deals. Some UGC platforms post opportunities for creators to apply, while others require creators to create a listing for their content creation services.
Some platforms to search for UGC opportunities include Fiverr, Upwork, Billo, Insense, and Brands Meet Creators. These platforms make it easy to apply for brand deals without having to search for brands or their contact information.
2. Network with brands and business owners
Networking via platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and TikTok is an excellent way to be proactive and work with specific brands. You can use these platforms for personal branding by posting updates on their account, sharing their journey as a UGC creator, and adding a call-to-action for brands to contact them for UGC.
You can also engage in cold outreach by identifying brands you genuinely like and reaching out to folks who work at those companies. Smaller companies like startups and small businesses just starting to build their social media presence often need UGC.
3. Perfect your pitch
Pitching yourself to a brand for a UGC opportunity is like applying for a job. As more and more people become UGC creators, it becomes more competitive. So you need to make your pitch stand out.
Focus your pitch on the brand and the value you’ll provide for them through UGC. Tailor your pitch for each opportunity you apply to and curate examples in your portfolio that are relevant to each brand’s industry and target audience.
4. Know your worth
As with influencer marketing, payment rates for UGC creation vary widely. The brand or platform usually sets the rate for brand deals.
Nonetheless, staying up-to-date with market rates will empower creators to choose deals that pay fairly. This benefits creators and ensures equitable compensation for other UGC creators.
You can follow UGC creators on TikTok and Instagram, as they often post content sharing behind-the-scenes details on how they negotiate brand deals and how much they get paid.
The benefits of UGC creators
There are many benefits of UGC creators. Knowing these benefits will help you communicate your value to the brands you want to work with.
Build authenticity
UGC creators are skilled at creating content that emulates traditional UGC, which has an organic feel that can’t be matched by brands. This makes it more eye-catching and engaging, which is invaluable to brands. UGC is the social media equivalent of product reviews and word-of-mouth. As such, it feels authentic and is more likely to drive sales.
Saves money
Working with influencers can be expensive, as brands need to pay for both the content and the posts on the influencer’s channels. With UGC content, brands only need to pay for the content itself, which often can be the same quality (or better) than the content from influencers. It also gives them complete control over the distribution and positioning of the content.
Influences purchase decisions
UGC acts as social proof, showing that real people are buying and using a product, which can drive more sales. Moreover, UGC doesn’t look like a blatant ad, which can make it more engaging when used in ad campaigns. Many brands pay to get UGC to use in social media posts and ads because it influences purchase decisions.
Saves time
By sourcing content from UGC creators, a brand can get way more pieces than if it created them in-house. Brands can distribute a UGC brief to multiple creators, who will produce and deliver the content back to the brand by the same deadline. This is faster than producing content from scratch, and it’s also more cost-effective.
Start your UGC creator venture today
Becoming a UGC creator requires some hustle and work upfront, but it can be well worth the effort if you do it right. Using platforms like Trend by soona makes it easier. Trend by soona is a UGC marketplace which helps creators and ecommerce brands generate authentic content.
Get to know more about Trend by soona >
UGC creator FAQs
How many followers do you need to get paid as a UGC creator?
As a UGC creator, you don’t need a specific number of followers to get paid. Many UGC brand deals are content-only, which means creators only need to create and deliver content without any obligation to post it on your own channels. Therefore, the focus should be on creating high-quality content that resonates with the brand’s target audience.
How do you find brands to work with?
The easiest way to find brands looking for UGC creators is to use platforms that curate UGC brand deals. Alternatively, brands may advertise call-outs for UGC creators in their feed posts or Stories. You can also pitch to brands directly by sending them a DM with your proposal if they are open to working with UGC creators.
How do you create a UGC portfolio?
Creating a UGC portfolio is essential for showcasing your skills and attracting potential brand partners. You can use free tools like Canva or Google Slides to create your portfolio. If you need help getting started, check out free brand pitch deck templates available online. Your portfolio should showcase your best work and highlight your unique style and approach.
What are some of the best UGC platforms for creators?
- YouTube
- TikTok
- Twitch
How can you become a successful UGC creator in 2023?
To become a successful UGC creator in 2023, you need to have a unique style, consistency, and creativity. Creators must be passionate about their content and be willing to invest time and effort into creating quality content. They should also engage with their audience and take feedback to improve their content.
What are some examples of successful UGC creators on YouTube?
- PewDiePie
- Shane Dawson
- Lilly Singh
- Casey Neistat
Do UGC creators make money from their content?
Yes, UGC creators can make money from their content. They can earn revenue through ad revenue, sponsorships, merchandise sales, and donations from their audience. However, the amount of money a UGC creator can make depends on various factors such as their audience size, engagement rate, and monetization strategy.
What is the legal status of being a UGC creator?
UGC creators must ensure their content does not infringe on any copyright laws or violate any community guidelines. They must also obtain permission from the original creators of any content they use in their videos. Failure to do so can result in legal action being taken against them.
How much should one pay a UGC creator for their work?
The amount a UGC creator can charge for their work depends on various factors such as their experience, the type of content they create, and your budget. It’s essential to research industry rates and pay a fair price for their work.
