UGC

  • Why Do Many UGC Creators Quit After Just a Year?

    The sunsets of dreamy destinations, the perfectly plated spread at the newest café, and the outfits that turn city streets into fashion runways – this is the world as painted by user-generated content (UGC) creators. It’s a realm where creativity meets commerce and where many hope to carve out their niche. But behind the filters and follower counts, there’s another narrative unfolding – one where a considerable number of UGC creators quit before their first anniversary. Why does this happen?

    In this voyage through the lens of a UGC creator, we’ll explore the trials that lead many promising talents to prematurely exit stage left, including the fundamental misstep of forgoing proper learning and preparation.

    Social media often tells a half-truth, highlighting the successes without the outtakes. But the outtakes, as every seasoned content creator would attest, are where the real story unfolds.

    The Lure and Lament of Instant Success

    For starters, the allure of instant success is as intoxicating as it is misleading. New creators are often under the illusion that virality is a few posts away. When the reality of algorithmic fickleness hits, disillusionment can soon follow. The stars of the social world aren’t those who struck digital gold overnight but are instead the persistent few who understand that building a presence is a marathon, not a sprint.

    Creative Burnout: When Passion Flames Out

    Creative burnout is another uninvited guest that frequently disrupts the content creation soiree. Juggling the demands of constant content production, all the while clinging to the same thread of innovation can wear down even the most spirited individuals. It’s akin to running a bakery and crafting a new, unique pastry every day – enticing and exhausting in equal measure.

    The Oversight of Under Learning

    The most pivotal, however, is the leap before the look – or more aptly, the posting before the learning. Many of those who quit within a year are those who have bypassed the critical step of education. Learning the ropes of content creation isn’t just about mastering filters or hashtags; it’s about carving a sustainable path in the sprawling landscape of social media.

    Imagine setting sail across the ocean with no map or compass – such is the plight of the unguided creator.

    How to Stay The Course

    This is where I beckon you to change the narrative. I’ve poured my 12 years of experience and insights into a guide that contains everything you need to become a successful UGC creator.

    Through the pages of this guide, creators discover the blueprint to not only the first UGC deal but also the framework for an enduring career in content creation. Over 90% of my students have not only hit the £500 mark within the first two months but continued to flourish, nurturing their passion into a profession.

    GET THE GUIDE HERE

    The Horizon Awaits

    The world needs your perspective, your stories, and your unique flair. Yes, it demands learning, patience, and perseverance, but as the waves of inspiration ebb and flow, remember that the ocean of opportunity is vast and waits for no one.

    Take the learnings, apply the tips, and stay the course. The story of your success as a UGC creator has many chapters yet to be written, and they’re all waiting for your signature style.

    Ready to begin? Grab my guide and take the first step towards a thriving career in UGC. Your future self will thank you for not quitting the scene but learning how to truly shine on it.

    how to become a UGC creator in just 7 days

  • 7 Essential UGC Safety Tips Every Creator Must Know

    Hey, beautiful creators! Having navigated the choppy waters of user-generated content for 11+ years, I’ve got the map to help you steer clear of those sneaky red flags. 🚩 Today, we’re talking about staying safe while creating UGC for brands.

    The digital seas are vast, and it’s easy to get caught in the nets of not-so-honest folks. But fear not! I’ve gathered some pro tips to keep your content castle secure. Follow these UGC safety tips, and you’ll sail smoothly while rocking the UGC world. 🛥️ ✨

    1. Contract First, Address Later

    Starting off with a biggie – your address is more than just a place, it’s your sanctuary! Before you go handing it out like free samples at a grocery store, make sure you and your client sign on the dotted line. Contracts are like the bouncers of the UGC club – they only let the VIPs (Very Important Payment-promisers) through!

    This way, you’ll know the brand is legit and not just fishing for your personal info. It’s like not giving your number out at a bar until you’re sure they’re Prince Charming, right?

    2. Your Address’s Secret Identity

    Consider a PO box for your UGC gifts from clients. It’s an added layer of protection for your address that keeps your personal Batcave…well, personal! This nifty trick keeps your home address private while still getting all the goodies. No more worrying about unexpected visitors or lost parcels.

    3. Put Your Wallet Away – No Pay, No Play

    Remember the golden rule – money flows towards the creator, not away. If a deal involves you opening your wallet to pay for products or shipping, swipe left on that offer faster than a bad dating app match. Your talent pays the bills, not the other way around!

    how to become a UGC creator in just 7 days

    4. “Hey Dear” – The Ultimate Red Flag

    Oh, the classic “hey dear” message. Might as well come with alarm bells, right? If an offer starts with a greeting that sounds like it was spun in a suspicious compliment factory, take it as a nope note. Trust me, your sixth sense mixed with a pinch of skepticism is the perfect recipe for detecting those tricky trap messages.

    5. Watermark Your Videos

    This one’s a biggie and I’ve seen so many creators get cheated out of their hard-earned money because of this. Only lift the veil (a.k.a. watermark) once the payment has got that cleared, cha-ching status! 💰💫

    You can easily create a watermark in CapCut, inShot or most other platforms.

    6. No Contract? No Deal

    I’ve left this one till last because if you don’t yet know that you need a contract, then I really hope you haven’t been reaching out to brands yet! As far as UGC safety tips go, this is the most important one!

    If you take anything from this blog, it’s that CONTRACTS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE!!

    Get this contract template if you don’t already have one. It’s made by a lawyer who specialises in content creators and it’s VERY thorough! (use code UQPROMO10 to get 10% off)

    🗨️ Story time: I was once talking to a brand that seems quite legit. The emails were personal, she shared the scripts with me, it seemed to be going well. Until she sent me their contract.

    Now I NEVER sign a client’s contract, I always send them mine because mine is 8 pages long, and theirs is usually 1-2 at best and super basic.

    💰 Looking at their contract I saw that they didn’t include the cost of the project nor the deliverables! So basically, once I delivered the videos, they were under no obligation to pay me.

    I pointed that out and sent them my contract. They said they can’t work with mine OR change theirs. So that was a MAJOR red flag 🚩 If a company is refusing to add something as vital as PAYMENT to their contract… RUN 🏃‍♀️

    —

    UGC Safety Tips – Safety is the New Cool

    And there you have it! Watermark boldly, guard your personal deets like a treasure, and keep on creating with confidence! 🚀💪

    And hey, if you’re out there thinking, “But Anya, I want more magic wands to wave on my UGC quest!” because, of course, who wouldn’t? 🪄✨ Check out my “Become a UGC Creator in 7 Days” guide. It’s jam-packed with insider tips and is the magic bean you need to grow your UGC empire. Grab it and watch your career beanstalk soar!

    Until next time.

  • What Does UGC Stand For?

    Ah, the world of acronyms, where FYI, BRB, and ASAP rule the roost. But today, we’re turning the spotlight to UGC. You might be scratching your head, wondering “What does UGC stand for?” Or perhaps you’re playing a wild guessing game, “Umm, Universal Galaxy Control? Ultra Grumpy Cats?”

    Well, hold your horses! It’s a relatively new concept so it’s only natural to ask, what does UGC stand for? UGC stands for User Generated Content. It’s all about you (yes, you), the user, creating content. And not just any content, we’re talking about videos, pictures, reviews, blog posts – the whole shebang! Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the wonderful world of UGC, paying particular attention to UGC video.

    What Does UGC Stand For? Explained

    UGC is any type of content created by non-professionals, or rather, everyday people. In other words, it’s not produced by big corporations or media companies. It’s authentic, unfiltered, and comes straight from the source – you. And as digital platforms continue to rise in popularity, UGC has become a major player in the online world.

    When first understanding what does UGC stand for? Be clear that user-generated content (UGC) mostly encompasses high-quality user-created images and videos.

    Vibrant imagery and captivating video clips play a vital role in capturing the attention of consumers, particularly in the context of online purchases. When individuals cannot physically examine a product, their reliance on visuals and videos intensifies as they seek to gauge its desirability, be it for practical use (e.g., a pair of shoes) or experiential enjoyment (e.g., a restaurant or hotel).

    how to become a UGC creator in just 7 days

    UGC Video: The Power of User Generated Content

    User generated content has emerged as the most trusted, memorable, influential, and readily available source of content for marketers. Let’s explore a few reasons why this holds true:

    • User generated content (UGC) possesses the invaluable quality of authenticity:

    Marketers invest significant time and resources in meticulously crafting messages and professional imagery that they believe will resonate with consumers. However, it turns out that consumers aren’t seeking perfection; they crave authenticity. Every day individuals who bear resemblance to themselves or people they know are far more relatable. The genuine nature of user-generated content (UGC) cannot be replicated.

    • User-generated content (UGC) serves as a powerful catalyst for fostering brand loyalty:

    Brands that leverage readily available UGC prioritize their audience by engaging in conversation rather than one-sided communication. Consequently, UGC has the potential to forge a deeper connection between the brand and the consumer.

    By incorporating UGC, individuals feel like active participants in your brand rather than mere spectators. This results in heightened brand enthusiasm and cultivates greater loyalty towards the brand. Embracing UGC in your marketing efforts yields elevated levels of brand engagement and fosters stronger brand allegiance.

    • User-generated content (UGC) leaves a lasting impression:

    In the constant struggle to capture and retain people’s attention, marketers face the challenge of cutting through the noise. Crafting the perfect message or creating stunning imagery is meaningless if it fails to leave a lasting impression.

    Research has shown that user-generated content (UGC) holds greater memorability compared to traditional advertising. Specifically, millennials have found UGC to be 35 percent more memorable than other forms of media.

    • User-generated content (UGC) plays a key role in consolidating customer trust:

    In today’s marketing landscape, trust has become the ultimate goal for brands in their pursuit of audience engagement. However, achieving trust is no easy feat.

    One powerful tool that helps cultivate trust among consumers is user-generated content (UGC). As mentioned earlier, UGC stands out for its authenticity and ability to foster interaction between individuals and businesses. Its widespread trustworthiness, memorability, and integration into people’s daily lives have positioned it as one of the most influential forms of content.

    • UGC influences consumers and improves conversion rates:

    The evidence is clear: the more a brand leverages user-generated content (UGC), the greater its ability to inspire conversions. UGC serves as a potent form of social proof, with a staggering 79% of consumers indicating that their purchasing decisions are significantly influenced by it.

    In stark contrast, a mere 8% of individuals report that celebrity or social media influencer content highly impacts their buying choices. This makes UGC approximately 9.8 times more influential than content from social influencers.

    • User-generated content (UGC) fosters a sense of community:

    When a brand can inspire a community to rally around it, it fosters meaningful interactions between the brand and its followers, as well as among the followers themselves. Creating opportunities for loyal customers to engage and connect over their shared love for your brand is a marketing triumph. It’s a win-win scenario that cultivates a sense of belonging and boosts brand loyalty.

    • User-generated content (UGC) offers a cost-effective solution for businesses:

    Not only does UGC offer all the aforementioned benefits, but it also proves to be a cost-effective solution. Consider this: instead of investing significant time and resources into hiring creative teams to produce a limited number of content assets, only to repeat the process in a month or two (if not a few weeks), you can now outsource this work to regular individuals who are already enthusiastically discussing and posting about your business online.

    FAQS

    After learning What does UGC stand for? It’s time to answer some helpful frequently asked questions.

    Where to find UGC jobs?

    • Interested in a list of apps and websites where you can find UGC jobs that get updated every time new ones come out? In this UGC Guide you’ll find it all.
    • Check out a newsletter that sends you UC jobs for free every week
    • If Facebook is your main form of social media, you need to join this FB group for UK/EU creators where you can land jobs and connect with other creators to ask questions, etc (most groups are full of spam but I keep this one rubbish-free).

    Where can Visual UGC come from?

    • Customers: When people express their satisfaction with your product and share images of it online, it becomes one of the most valuable forms of user-generated content (UGC) for brands. By harnessing the power of organic posts from everyday individuals showcasing your product in real-life situations, you can provide inspiration and influential social proof to potential shoppers.
    • Advocates: These individuals not only purchase your products but also exhibit a deep enthusiasm and strong engagement with your brand. They might actively participate in your brand community or be loyal repeat customers. Given their passion and proximity to your brand, you can often directly approach advocates to create targeted user-generated content (UGC) for campaigns, specific products, and more.
    • Employees: Valuable user-generated content (UGC) can also originate from the individuals who embody your brand on a daily basis. Referred to as employee-generated content (EGC), this form of content offers an authentic glimpse into your company culture while providing your audience with a distinctive, captivating, and knowledgeable perspective on your business.

    What does the future hold for UGC video?

    UGC videos are here to stay. In fact, they’re becoming an integral part of digital marketing strategies for many brands. As technology advances, we can expect even more creative and innovative ways for users to generate content.

    We might see the rise of virtual reality or interactive UGC video in the near future. One thing’s for sure – a UGC video will continue to play a significant role in influencing consumer behavior and shaping brand perception.

    Final Words

    So next time you come across a video that captures your attention, remember that it was probably created by a fellow user just like yourself. That’s the beauty of UGC – it puts the power in the hands (or phones) of everyday people and brings a touch of authenticity to our digital world.

    Now that you know what does UGC stand for? Keep an eye out for all the amazing user generated content out there. Who knows, maybe your next viral video will be a UGC one! So go ahead, grab your camera, and let’s get creative! Let’s see what awesome content you can come up with!

  • How to Find UGC Creator Jobs

    Welcome to the thrilling world of User-Generated Content (UGC) creator jobs! These roles are the bread and butter of today’s digital landscape, where creativity and authenticity reign supreme. UGC Creator Jobs is the perfect fusion of imagination and ingenuity, where you turn ordinary moments into extraordinary content, and guess what? You can earn a pretty penny while doing it!

    Don’t be fooled though, while it’s all fun and games on the surface, UGC creator jobs require a clever blend of creativity, strategy, and an eye for what makes content truly click with the audience. These jobs place you in the driver’s seat, giving you the power to shape narratives and influence trends. So, are you ready to dive in and discover more about UGC jobs? Buckle up and let’s explore this fascinating journey!

    Where to Find UGC Creator Jobs?

    Now that we’ve piqued your interest in UGC creator jobs, let’s dive into where you can find these opportunities. Job portals like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn often have listings for UGC positions. Social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube also have job listings or collaboration opportunities advertised by brands. Additionally, networking with industry professionals and reaching out to brands directly can also lead to potential UGC creator jobs.

    Here are some platforms where you can search for UGC jobs:

    • HERE YOU’LL FIND A COMPLETE LIST OF WEBSITES AND APPS WHERE YOU CAN GET UGC JOBS (it’s constantly being updated and it’s free!)
    • Insense: Join via an app and choose opportunities to apply to.
    • You can just also check out this awesome UGC guide – where you’ll find a long list of apps and websites to land your next UGC job, the best part is that it gets updated when new ones come out!
    • We also invite you to check out this newsletter that sends you UGC jobs for free every week.
    • Another effective place where you can browse for UGC jobs is on this FB group. We know what you’re thinking, most groups are full of spam but don’t worry, I keep this one rubbish-free! Here, both UK/EU creators can find jobs and connect with other creators to ask questions, etc.
    • Fiverr is always a good option for any kind of freelance work.
    how to become a UGC creator in just 7 days

    What Skills Do You Need for UGC Creator Jobs?

    To be successful as a UGC creator, you need to have excellent content creation skills, including video editing, photography, and writing. You should also have a good understanding of social media platforms and their algorithms. Creativity, adaptability, and the ability to engage with your audience are also crucial skills for UGC creator jobs.

    What is the Pricing for UGC Creators?

    The pricing for UGC creators can vary and is often based on factors such as the scope of work, deliverables, and the size of your audience. Some brands may offer a flat fee for a specific piece of content, while others may pay based on engagement or reach. It’s essential to discuss payment terms and negotiate with the brand before accepting any UGC creator job. Remember to consider the value of your time, effort, and skills when determining your pricing.

    What do UGC jobs bring to the table for brands?

    • Compared to influencer content, UGC content is more cost-effective: When collaborating with influencers, brands are required to compensate for both the content creation and the posting on the influencer’s channels. The cost increases with the reach and engagement of the influencer, sometimes reaching millions of celebrities!
    • UGC can have a significant impact on purchase decisions: Numerous brands invest in acquiring user-generated content (UGC) for use in social media ads due to its persuasive effect. UGC serves as social proof, demonstrating that genuine individuals are actively purchasing and utilizing a product. This compelling evidence can drive a surge in sales and customer engagement.
    • Leveraging user-generated content (UGC) creators offer a significant advantage in terms of production speed. By tapping into UGC, brands can acquire a greater number of content pieces compared to in-house creation. Brands can distribute a UGC brief to multiple creators, who will then produce and deliver the content within the specified deadline. This streamlined approach not only enhances efficiency but also maximizes output for brands.

    Tips to Stand Out as a UGC Creator:

    • Be Authentic: Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Create content that’s true to your personality and reflects your unique style.
    • Experiment: Don’t be afraid to try new things and push boundaries. The beauty of UGC is that it allows for flexibility and innovation.
    • Engage Your Audience: Build a strong relationship with your followers by regularly interacting with them through comments, live streams, and Q&A sessions.
    • Collaborate: Collaborating with fellow UGC creators can expand your reach and bring fresh perspectives to your content.
    • Consistency is Key: Be consistent in posting content to keep your audience engaged and attract potential employers.
    • Showcase Your Skills: Use different mediums like videos, blogs, or graphics to showcase your versatility and skills as a UGC creator.
    • Stay Professional: While it’s important to have fun, remember that UGC creator jobs are still professional roles. Maintain a level of professionalism in your interactions and content.

    Common Questions About How to Find UGC Creator Jobs

    So, What is a UGC creator?

    A UGC creator is an individual who produces sponsored content that appears genuine while aiming to promote a specific business or product. Video is the most prevalent format used by UGC creators, particularly on platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Creators typically film and narrate the content from their own perspective, giving it an authentic touch.

    The key distinction between UGC creators and influencers lies in the fact that UGC creators generate and deliver content to businesses without the obligation to post it on their own channels (although some UGC deals may include this for an additional fee). On the other hand, when working with influencers, companies usually compensate for both content creation and exposure to the influencer’s following.

    How to find UGC creator jobs?

    Want to know how to find UGC creator jobs? Whether you are a seasoned pro or just getting started in the world of UGC, these 5 general steps can help you land your dream gig:

    1. Create a Portfolio: Showcase your work on various social media platforms. This acts as a living, breathing CV for potential employers.
    2. Networking: Connect with fellow UGC creators and industry professionals. Attend events, webinars, and workshops to build your network.
    3. Stay Updated: Keep abreast of the latest trends and platforms popular amongst your target audience.
    4. Apply for Opportunities: Search for UGC creator jobs on job portals, social media platforms, and within your network. Don’t shy away from reaching out to brands directly.
    5. Show Your Skills: When applying, highlight how you could add value to their brand and demonstrate your understanding of their target audience.

    Final Thoughts

    UGC creator jobs are a popular and exciting career choice for many individuals, with endless opportunities for creativity and growth. By following these tips and steps, you can increase your chances of securing UGC creator jobs and standing out in this competitive industry.

    With the right mix of skills, determination, and networking, you can turn your dream into a reality; remember to stay true to yourself, show your skills, and never stop learning and experimenting. So keep creating, stay true to yourself, and who knows? The next big brand may be knocking on your door for your UGC services! Now go out there and chase those UGC creator jobs with confidence!

  • What is a UGC video?

    UGC stands for User Generated Content, but what exactly are UGC videos and how can you make a great income from them? Psst… scroll down to find UGC jobs!

    UGC is “marketing a brand through regular people”, as I like to call it. It’s essentially content created by people like you and me, about a particular product or service, for a brand.

    UGC is typically shared by brands across social media platforms and is often used for marketing purposes. It can include images, text, videos, audio recordings, and anything else created by users.

    It is an effective way of getting people interested in a particular brand as it showcases real-life interactions with customers and the products or services they offer.

    UGC is most commonly used across Instagram and TikTok (video and photo).

    Is UGC used on organic social or ads too?

    User Generated Content (UGC) can be used for both organic social as well as ad campaigns.

    Through organic UGC, businesses can create an engaged community of customers by sharing content that they enjoy and not just random stock imagery.

    Ads that use UGC tend to be more effective in connecting with customers than standard advertisements as they show real-life interactions with the product by “real people”.

    UGC video ads typically require a bit more planning and tend to require a hook, a problem, a solution and a CTA (call to action).

    Typically, if a brand wants to use your UGC video for ads, you can ask for more money (I teach all about that in my ultimate UGC guide).

    What is a UGC video? Examples:

    Ok, so you get the theory behind UGC videos, but what do they actually look like? 

    There are many forms of UGC, and after a while you’ll learn to recognise them. The most common type used for UGC ads is – you talking to the camera, hyping up a product or service, with b-roll to make the reel look more interesting. It often consists of a “hook” (something to catch the users attention), a list of positives about the brand and a CTA (call to action) at the end.

    I don’t normally share my clients, but I like supporting charities or other products I truly see as valuable, so below is an example of one I did for ReDONATEuk that fits into the standard UGC ad category:

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by reDONATE.uk (@redonate_uk)

    Now, the UGC video example below is a totally different form of user generated content. It’s more inspirational and doesn’t have a hard sell, so it’s more frequently used by brands in their organic feed or by luxury brands that seek to inspire their audience to buy their products.

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by Anya Andreeva – Enchanting Mermaid (@enchanting.mermaid)

    Finally, and I get asked this question a lot – do you need to show your face in a UGC video? No you don’t. A lot of the videos I make are faceless, like this one down here. JUVIA is a fantastic natural product for people with IBS and I’ve done quite a few videos for them that don’t show my face. These types of UGC videos tend to be more aesthetic, informational or just fun.

    View this post on Instagram

    A post shared by JUVIA (@juvia_me)

    Why is user generated content so important?

    In today’s society, user generated content plays a crucial role in the success of a brand. Gone are the days when brands could rely on traditional marketing techniques to entice customers. Now, customers want to engage with brands on a personal level, and UGC provides just that.

    Firstly, UGC allows brands to establish a personal connection with their consumers. Such a connection not only boosts brand loyalty but also increases the likelihood of customers recommending the brand to others.

    Secondly, user generated content is a great marketing strategy for brands as it offers a unique perspective on their products. Customers tend to trust each other more than they trust brands – after all, no one knows a product better than the people who use it every day. By featuring user-generated content, brands are showcasing an honest and narratively-rich take on their products.

    UGC creator jobs – where to find them?

    If you’re a new creator, it can feel overwhelming knowing where to start and where to look for UGC jobs. So many different things to learn (like NEVER do work without a contract!) and so many apps to sign up to. Below are a few simple ways you can get started.

    – Scroll through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, if you come across a brand that is utilizing UGC content, send them a DM! Many of these brands partner with UGC creators, making them an ideal target for pitching.

    – Search through Twitter regularly for any posts regarding UGC creators needed by companies. Just make sure to vet the company first before engaging in any deals as there can be a lot of spammy offers.

    – There are also a lot of apps and websites that connect creators and brands. I’ve got a large list of them in my UGC guide and I update it as soon as new ones come out. Some of these have been great for me and they take the effort out of looking for brands yourself. You can find the list in “Become a UGC Creator in Just 7 Days” – possibly the most comprehensive UGC guide out there.

    – Facebook groups can be a good place too. If you’re in the UK/EU, join my group here. I keep it spam-free unlike most of the UGC groups out there, and brands actively post jobs there.

    – I have one more resource for you and I think you’ll like this one. There’s a FREE newsletter that sends you UGC jobs to your mailbox several times a week. You can sign up to it here. It mostly has jobs for creators in the US and Canada, but sometimes it has jobs in the UK, Europe and worldwide.

    Hope you found this article useful and now have a better understanding about what is UGC. If you have any questions, feel free to contact me!