UGC creators play a crucial role in helping brands build trust and credibility. This is because creators of this kind can highlight a brand’s strengths in a relatable and engaging manner through their creativity and personal experiences. Their content often resonates more deeply with audiences compared to traditional advertisements, thereby building a sense of community and connection around the brand.
These benefits make UGC creators a vital asset for brands looking to enhance their online presence and drive meaningful interactions with their customers. This value proposition means both brands and UGC creators are always searching for one another. To help out, this article shows you exactly how to get brands looking for UGC creators.
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Ready to simplify your online presence?
With Pushbio, you can;
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- Showcase all your content, products, and services in one space.
- Share everything through a single link.
How to get brands looking for UGC creators
While brands are always in search of UGC creators to work with, they often do so via diverse means. And for creators to secure these gigs, they need to know how to connect seamlessly with businesses in need of their services.
Below are some means for creators to connect with brands having work for them:
1. Explore brand hashtags
Search for hashtags related to UGC campaigns on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok. Use tags such as #UGC, #UserGeneratedContent, and #ContentCreator to find posts where brands are actively seeking content creators. Engaging with these hashtags can lead you to opportunities where brands are looking for new creators. It’s a great way to discover trends and see which brands are currently focused on UGC.
2. Join relevant groups on social media platforms
Participate in groups and communities on platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn that are focused on digital marketing and content creation. These groups often have posts about collaboration opportunities and UGC campaigns. With these groups, you can stay updated on the latest calls for UGC creators and connect with both brands and other creators who might share leads or referrals.
3. Sign up for UGC networks
Register with UGC networks and influencer marketing platforms such as AspireIQ, Upfluence, or Influence.co. These platforms specialize in connecting brands with content creators. By creating a profile showcasing your work and interests, you make yourself visible to brands actively seeking UGC creators. These networks often have tools to match you with brands looking for specific types of content.
4. Attend networking events and conferences
Attend digital marketing and influencer networking events and conferences to meet brand representatives and industry professionals. Events like these often provide opportunities to discuss potential collaborations and learn about upcoming UGC campaigns. Creators should make the most of these events by exchanging contact information and following up with the connections they make to explore collaboration opportunities.
5. Check out Brand websites and career pages
Visit the websites and career pages of brands you’re interested in to find information about collaboration and partnership opportunities. Many brands have dedicated sections for influencer or UGC creator partnerships. Regularly checking these pages can help you spot open calls for content creators and apply directly through their provided channels.
6. Direct outreach
Reach out to brands directly with a personalized pitch highlighting your skills and past work. Craft a message that demonstrates how your content aligns with their brand’s values and needs. Make sure to address the right person, such as the marketing manager or PR contact, and follow up to keep your pitch on their radar.
7. Content creator communities
Join online communities and forums where content creators gather, such as Reddit or specialized UGC forums. These platforms often have discussions about brand collaborations and UGC opportunities. Also, engaging in these communities can provide valuable insights and connections, helping you discover brands looking for UGC creators.
8. Collaborate with Influencers
Build relationships with influencers who frequently work with brands. They often know about upcoming UGC opportunities and might refer you to brands looking for content creators. Attend events and follow influencers on social media to stay connected and aware of any potential collaboration leads they might share.
9. Job boards and Freelance platforms
Look for UGC creator opportunities on job boards and freelance platforms like Upwork, Freelancer, or Fiverr. Brands often post requests for UGC on these sites, providing details about their needs and budget. As a UGC creator, you can actively check these platforms for potential projects and collaborations you find.
10. Look out for Brands with user-generated content campaigns
Monitor brands that are running UGC campaigns and actively engage with their content. Brands running these campaigns are usually on the lookout for new creators to participate. By interacting with their posts and showcasing your own UGC, you increase your chances of being noticed and invited to collaborate.
11. Find Brands via Brand Ambassador programs
Identify brands that have brand ambassador programs and express your interest in joining. These programs often involve creating UGC as part of their marketing strategy. Reach out to the brands or apply through their ambassador program pages to become a part of their promotional efforts and gain access to exclusive opportunities.
12. Monitor contests and challenges on social media
Keep an eye on social media contests and challenges that brands host to encourage UGC. Participating in these contests can help you get noticed by the brands and other content creators. It’s a good way to showcase your creativity and potentially win a spot in future brand campaigns or collaborations.
How do I pitch myself to a brand as a UGC creator?
Finding a brand willing to work with a creator doesn’t automatically guaranty a UGC gig. Creators have to actively pitch to brands in other to secure a working relationship with the brand. This involves taken steps with the goal of convincing a brand to work with you as their UGC creator.
To help creators land UGC gigs with brands, here are a couple of things to include in your pitch to make it effective:
1. Research the Brand
Before pitching, thoroughly research the brand you want to collaborate with. Understand their products, values, target audience, and current marketing strategies. This knowledge will help you tailor your pitch to align with their needs and show that you’re genuinely interested in working with them. It also allows you to highlight how your content can complement their existing campaigns effectively.
2. Create a top Subject line
Craft a compelling subject line for your pitch email that grabs attention immediately. It should be clear, concise, and relevant to the brand’s interests. For example, use something like “Innovative UGC Ideas to Boost Your Brand’s Engagement” to make the brand curious and eager to open your email. A strong subject line increases the chances of your pitch being noticed and read.
3. Introduce yourself
Start your pitch by introducing yourself and explaining who you are. Briefly mention your background, your experience as a UGC creator, and any relevant achievements. This introduction helps build credibility and gives the brand a quick overview of what you bring to the table. Make sure to keep it engaging and relevant to the brand’s interests.
4. Show how your values match theirs
Demonstrate how your values and content style align with the brand’s identity. Explain how your personal brand or content approach complements their messaging and goals. This connection shows that you understand their brand ethos and are genuinely invested in creating content that resonates with their audience, making your pitch more compelling.
5. Attach your portfolio
Include a link to your portfolio or attach samples of your previous UGC work. Make sure your portfolio showcases a variety of content types and demonstrates your creativity and effectiveness. A strong portfolio provides proof of your abilities and helps the brand visualize how your content could fit with their brand.
6. Use a powerful call-to-action (CTA)
End your pitch with a clear and direct call-to-action. Specify what you want the brand to do next, whether it’s scheduling a meeting, requesting more information, or reviewing your portfolio. A strong CTA makes it easy for the brand to take the next step and shows your eagerness to move forward with the collaboration.
7. Submit your pitch to the right person
Ensure your pitch reaches the appropriate contact person within the brand. This is usually someone in the marketing or PR department who handles influencer and UGC collaborations. Research the correct contact or use the brand’s official channels to direct your pitch to the right individual. Sending your pitch to the appropriate person increases the likelihood of it being considered.
8. Remember to follow up
After sending your pitch, follow up if you haven’t received a response within a reasonable timeframe. A polite follow-up email can remind the brand of your pitch and reiterate your interest. It shows persistence and professionalism, and can help keep your pitch on their radar and increase your chances of a positive response.
Top 10 brands that work with UGC creators
Several brands of different sizes work with UGC creators as part of their marketing strategy. These brands depend on the authenticity of UGC creators to further boost their visibility to potential customers.
To give you an idea of brands working with UGC creators, here are 10 top brands to look at:
1. The Cloudies
The Cloudies are a standout example of a brand working with UGC creators to highlight their products. Known for their Cloudies Slides, which are deemed therapeutic slipper shoes designed for maximum comfort. The Cloudies emphasize foot comfort with their tagline, ‘happiness with every step.’ Their user-generated content showcases these slippers in real-life settings, offering an authentic glimpse into their benefits. For those looking to collaborate with a brand focused on UGC, The Cloudies’ ads library offers inspiration on how to elevate content through UGC.
2. ZULU
ZULU is a brand specializing in high-performance water bottles tailored for active lifestyles. Their products are built to endure the rigorous demands of athletes, reflecting Zulu Athletic’s commitment to creating durable and functional gear. ZULU frequently engages user-generated content creators to demonstrate how their water bottles withstand extreme conditions, providing genuine proof of their durability. This approach helps them connect with a community that values high-quality and resilient products.
3. Meshki
Meshki, an Australian fashion brand founded by sisters Sophie and Shadi Amiri in 2013, is renowned for its chic dresses and contemporary clothing. The brand focuses on empowering women to feel confident and ambitious through their fashion choices. With its collaborations with UGC creators, Meshki is able to showcase their trendy collections in diverse settings, amplifying their message of confidence and style. The brand’s engagement with user-generated content creators highlights how fashion can be both inspiring and accessible.
4. Outdoor Voices
Outdoor Voices is a brand that designs activewear for a wide audience, using UGC creators to display their products in action. From yoga poses to mountain hikes, these creators illustrate the functionality and style of Outdoor Voices clothing in everyday scenarios. This approach not only showcases the versatility of their products but also resonates with a broad audience who sees the clothing used in real-world activities, enhancing brand credibility and appeal.
5. ColourPop
ColourPop, a vibrant makeup brand, excels in fostering a creative community through collaborations with user-generated content creators. Beauty enthusiasts and makeup artists share their innovative looks and tutorials featuring ColourPop products, showcasing their versatility and affordability. Their strategy demonstrates the power of UGC in keeping a brand dynamic and connected with its audience.
6. GoPro
GoPro, a leading name in action cameras, has centered its brand around user-generated content (UGC) from the start. Designed to capture adventure, GoPro showcases the excitement through the lens of its users. The company fosters a vibrant community of UGC creators by organizing contests, challenges, and interactive campaigns. Through the stunning footage provided by athletes, bikers, vloggers, and adventure enthusiasts, GoPro highlights the exceptional capabilities of their cameras in real-world settings.
7. Simply Inked
Simply Inked specializes in temporary tattoos that offer a realistic look while being easy to apply and remove. These tattoos, which last between 15 to 25 days, present a unique content opportunity for UGC creators. Simply Inked actively utilizes both paid and organic user-generated content on their feed, creating ample chances for collaboration. Creators can also explore pitching specifically from their subscription boxes, offering more ways to engage with the brand beyond one-time projects.
8. BFB Hair
BFB Hair, short for “Barefoot Blonde Hair,” produces clip-in extensions made from 100% human Remy hair. Founded by Amber Fillerup Clark, also known as Barefoot Blonde, the brand capitalizes on the power of influencer marketing and user-generated content. By partnering with UGC creators and influencers, the brand effectively showcases how their products can transform and elevate natural hair.
9. Burt’s Bees
Burt’s Bees, a well-loved natural skincare brand, embraces user-generated content creators to emphasize their commitment to natural ingredients and wellness. Collaborating with beauty enthusiasts and lifestyle bloggers, Burt’s Bees uses UGC to highlight the effectiveness of their products in an authentic manner. From glowing skin tutorials featuring their balms to soothing nighttime routines with their calming lotions.
10. Thinx
Thinx, a pioneering brand in period care, is renowned for its innovative leak proof underwear. The company actively collaborates with UGC creators to highlight the effectiveness of their products. By partnering with user-generated content creators, Thinx leverages authentic reviews and personal experiences to build trust with their audience. These collaborations play a crucial role in promoting body confidence and supporting period positivity campaigns.
In summary
There are hundreds of thousands of brands that work with UGC creators and finding one requires you looking in the right places. But that is just one step of the way, knowing how to successfully pitch UGC to brands equally involves several key steps. However, applying the strategies above can help creators increase their chances of securing valuable collaborations as well as showcase their unique content to a broader audience.
