UGC is basically any form of content – like videos, photos, reviews, or even social media posts – that's created not by brands or companies, but by everyday people, the users themselves. It's like when someone posts a picture of their new sneakers on Instagram, tags the brand, and raves about how comfy they are. That's UGC.

In a nutshell, it's real people sharing their real experiences with products or services, without being paid or sponsored by the companies that sell them. It's authentic, relatable, and often seen as more trustworthy than traditional advertising because it comes from fellow consumers, not the brand trying to sell something.

UGC: The People’s Voice in Advertising

As it turns out, you don’t have to spend thousands of dollars producing polished advertisements with professional models to convert. The real stars are your customers - basically, word-of-mouth in the digital age. It offers social proof & credibility to your brand, while also being budget-friendly.

The Future is User-Generated: UGC Ads take Centre Stage

Think UGC is just a trend? We would highly encourage you to think that through. Platforms like TikTok are turning everyday users into ad creators. UGC TikTok campaigns are not just viral; they’re influential. The advertising landscape is evolving, and UGC is leading the charge.

Choosing a UGC Agency

If you’re in the market for a UGC agency, don’t just go for the one with the snazziest portfolio. Here’s your checklist:

Niche Knowledge: Do they get your market? Can they speak your brand’s language and how do they manage messaging with their creators?
Adaptability: Your brand is unique. Make sure they can tailor their strategies to fit you.
Success Stories: A proven track record speaks for itself. Ask for case studies or testimonials.

How to Get UGC Without An Agency

Not keen on agency fees? You can still jump on the UGC bandwagon. Here’s your quick guide:

Social Media Challenges: Get your audience to participate in fun challenges that involve your product - this is likely to be the most challenging, but certainly possible if your audience is highly engaged.
Review Rewards: Offer discounts or freebies in exchange for honest reviews.
UGC-Friendly Platforms: Utilise platforms that naturally encourage UGC, like Instagram & TikTok.

Read our guide on how to approach influencers for collaborations - we’ve created a guide to engaging with influencers to do paid or sponsored collabs.

Creator Flow: Our Agency of Choice

If you’re looking for a straightforward solution to your UGC struggles, we definitely recommend checking out Creator Flow. As a leading UGC Agency, Creator Flow specialises in sourcing authentic and impactful UGC Ads that resonate with audiences. Whether you’re keen on launching a UGC TikTok campaign or simply want to boost your Shopify customer retention, Creator Flow has got you covered.

Not only is their platform extremely intuitive, you have complete control over the creator you want. Alternatively, you have the option of letting creators pitch your business. You can sort by age and gender - you can even select what kind of animal you want to market your pet-related goods. It’s insane - seriously, you should check them out. If you want $100 off your first order, feel free to contact us for a code!

The Bottom Line

So that’s about it. We could go on all day about UGC - it isn’t just changing the game, it’s rewriting the rules. UGC is your ticket to the big leagues, whether you’re a merchant or brand looking to make waves.

If you’re a Shopify merchant looking to scale your business, get in touch with us today for a free consultation!