What is UGC Content, and Why Does it Matter

Did you know 90% of people trust user-generated content (UGC) more than traditional ads? This is because UGC seems genuine, and in an age of manufactured perfection, genuine is what we want to see.

It can be a casual TikTok review, a selfie with the product, or a video tutorial; any UGC is changing the way brands and consumers relate with each other. However, there is always a strategy behind a viral video or a genuine review one may find; in fact, both companies and video creators can leverage the power of such a strategy to create some trust in their readers or customers and increase engagement.

What Is UGC?

So, what is UGC exactly?

UGC is user-generated content, or any form of content made by actual individuals rather than brands, such as videos, reviews, and blog posts.

It could be:

• A happy customer raving about their new skincare product
• A YouTuber reviewing a new phone
• A chef showing how they use their favourite knife

Why Is UGC Important for Brands?

UGC does the job beyond getting attention; it brings real connections. Why it matters:

• It builds trust: Human beings do not rely on logos but on other people. It becomes more interesting when one sees how someone is enjoying a product.
• It feels relatable: Unlike professional advertisements, UGC is continuous, natural and most times produced in ordinary conditions.
• It encourages engagement: When brands use UGC, they show that they care about their community and that, in turn, goes a long way in fostering stronger relationships and more loyalty.
• It’s cost-effective: Companies do not always require huge budgets, but the actual users who love their product.
• It boosts conversions: The latest studies show that UGC can boost conversions by as much as 29%.

What Are the Types of UGC?

There are two main types of user-generated content:

1. Organic UGC

That is the gold standard of authenticity. The customers post without receiving any payment just because they like something.

Examples include:

• A fitness enthusiast sharing their protein shake recipe
• A student posting about their favourite study app

2. Paid UGC

The influencers or UGC creators, work with brands, creating an authentic, non-intrusive appeal to buy the branded products. Although it is sponsored, it does not seem impersonal.

Examples include:

• A skincare creator is doing a tutorial with a brand’s new serum
• A travel vlogger highlighting a hotel stay

UGC Formats You Should Know

UGC may take many forms, regardless of the industry. The most noted are…

Videos

• Unboxing.
• Tutorials
• Reaction or review content

This is the most engaging type and perfect for platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts.

Reviews and Testimonials

These are short written documents that are suitable as social proof. The personal story might be as effective as a video, especially when the reviewer gives it five stars.

Blogs and Articles

There are those who go in-depth, telling incomparable similarities, step-by-step, or experience with a product. They are very SEO friendly and work out in the long run.

Best Practices for Brands Using UGC

Here’s how brands can create a successful UGC strategy:

1. Always Credit Creators

Respect matters. Tag and mention the original creator of the UGC you repost their content to, it creates trust and motivates more people to contribute.

2. Set Clear Goals

Before launching a UGC campaign, ask:

• Are you trying to increase engagement?
• Drive sales?
• Boost brand awareness?

3. Create Branded Hashtags

Invite your customers to post content via a special hashtag. This assists you to:

• Discover something new easily
• Create a branded village
• Optimize your ad campaign to be searchable

Boost Your UGC With Captions

Want to take your UGC to the next level, without even filming?

Captions is an AI-based program that enables companies and creators to develop a UGC style of content in the form of a video that can be presented with a digital avatar.

Here’s how it works:

• Pick from a library of realistic AI characters (or clone yourself)
• Upload your product page
• Get an AI-written script and auto-generated video in minutes

Conclusion

User-generated content is not just a trend; it is shaping the future of digital marketing. Because people want something real, UGC is an effective means of establishing a true relationship. To brands, it is a chance to gain the trust of customers by presenting real experiences of the customers. 

To creators, it’s becoming an avenue to gaining more influence through authenticity and relatability in content creation. By learning about the nature of UGC and its content and how this can be exploited advantageously, you could gain a competitive advantage. Authentic tales and real voices are eye-catchers in a digital world that is characterized by noise.

Boost your brand’s growth with authentic, high-performing UGC. Partner with Run Marketing today.

FAQs

What is UGC and why is it Important?

UGC, or user-generated content, is any content created by real people rather than brands. It's important because UGC builds trust, feels authentic, and influences buying decisions more effectively than traditional ads.

How can Brands use UGC Content Effectively?

Brands can use UGC content by reposting customer reviews, sharing influencer videos, and encouraging posts with branded hashtags. This helps build community, boost engagement, and promote products in a relatable way.

Who is a UGC Creator?

A UGC creator is someone who makes content, videos, blogs, or reviews featuring a brand’s product or service. These creators help promote brands through real, relatable stories that connect with their audience.