Lights up, curtains raised - it's time for your customers to steal the show! With the power of social media, businesses now have the opportunity to connect with their audience in unique ways that weren't possible before. One such way is user generated content (UGC). In this blog post, we'll explore the magic of UGC and how it can benefit your brand.

What exactly is user generated content (UGC)?

UGC is digital content that is created and shared by users rather than brands. It can be anything from a post, review, blog or video, so what makes it so powerful? USG resonates with people on a personal level. At the end of the day, consumers are more likely to trust and engage with content that is created by their peers. By leveraging UGC, businesses can not only boost their credibility but also increase engagement rates and ROI.

How can you encourage your customers to create UGC?

One way to encourage UGC is by running a branded hashtag campaign. Encourage your customers to share their stories, experiences, and photos with a specific hashtag that aligns with your brand. Not only does this create a sense of community and belonging, but it also generates free advertising for your brand. Many companies have successfully implemented branded hashtag campaigns, such as Coca-Cola's #ShareACoke and Airbnb's #BelongAnywhere.

Another way to encourage UGC is by hosting contests. There are countless ways to structure a contest, from photo contests to video submissions. The key is to make it fun and aligned with your brand. For example, if you are a fitness brand, you could host a "before and after" transformation contest. This type of contest not only encourages UGC but also creates a sense of inspiration and motivation for your customers.

Lastly, make sure to incentivise UGC. Whether it's through discounts or giveaways, incentivising UGC creates a win-win situation for both the brand and the customer. Customers are more likely to engage with brands that offer rewards for UGC and the brand benefits from increased awareness and engagement.

What are some best practices for using UGC?

It’s important to give credit and obtain permission from creators before using their content for marketing purposes. This not only respects the intellectual property of others but also shows authenticity and transparency in your marketing efforts. Your business should have clear guidelines on what kind of content you will use and how it will be used. It's also a good idea to monitor UGC to ensure that it aligns with your brand values and message.

So now you’re clued-up, it’s time to incorporate user generated content into your marketing strategy and watch your brand shine like never before. After all, it’s always showtime when it comes to social media! 🪄