If you’ve been seeing “UGC creator” on your social media feeds, you’re not alone. The hashtag #ugccreator has gained over 558 million views on TikTok and over 120,000 (and counting) posts on Instagram.
In this article, we explain what a UGC creator is, why they’re becoming popular, and how to become one.
What is a UGC Creator?
Traditionally, UGC (user-generated content) refers to content created organically by a brand’s followers or consumers that is then shared by the brand on its own accounts.
Brands have been relying on UGC to impact purchasing decisions, as shown in a 2021 study where 80% of respondents claimed that UGC has a significant impact on their buying decisions.
The new trend of “UGC creators” emerged, where a content creator creates content that looks like UGC but has been paid for. Unlike influencers who need a significant following before they start working with brands, UGC creators don’t need tons of followers or are obligated to show their faces. They only need to create content that can be shared on the brand’s account.
However, this type of content is not technically organic, which is what UGC is known for. UGC creators are freelance content creators specializing in creating UGC-inspired content, such as photos or videos, for brands.
The main point is that brands are paying for more “authentic” content to drive sales and traffic, whether you call it a UGC creator or freelance content creator.
How to Become a UGC Creator, in short:
You need to identify the brands you want to work with, create content, and build your portfolio. Start by making a list of the brands you want to work with and audit their content to see what works well for them. Then, create the type of content you want to specialize in or be a generalist, and build your portfolio to pitch brands effectively.
It’s essential to remember that becoming a successful UGC creator takes time, consistency, hard work, and a steady stream of income. The UGC trend could simmer down, so it’s vital to stay updated with the constantly evolving social media landscape. However, if you’re interested in freelance content creation, now may be the right time to shine.
