The World Collaboration: User Generated Content

User generated content, or for the sake of this post: ugc, is very simply content that has been created by users of a platform and shared publicly. But how specifically does ugc relate to social media? Well, I'm here to tell you!

In the social media world, ugc can be anything from an Instagram post from a follower featuring your product, to a Facebook video created to promote your product. The list could go on forever, but the main thing to know is that ugc is an amazing aspect of social media marketing that every brand should be taking advantage of. Ugc is essentially a means to collaborate with your followers. Here are 3 ways to begin encouraging users to create content for you.

1. Offer an Incentive

Users aren't often to likely to spend their time creating posts to promote your product unless it benefits them in some way! For example, our team did an in-depth case study on the success of ColourPop Cosmetics and how they utilize ugc for their social platforms. Fans of ColourPop frequently share images of looks they've created using the products and tag the company in exchange for a chance to be featured on ColourPop's main feed. It's a win win because ColourPop can share beautiful images from real people featuring their makeup, while also promoting another account and potentially sending new followers to that user.

2. Share, Tag and Shout!

Make sure that if you are sharing a user's image, video, or any other content that you always tag the user and give them proper credit! If you want to take things to the next level, go ahead and say something awesome and personal about that user. It will draw more attention to their personal account and make them feel more appreciated by a company they admire. According to Cubicle Marketing, users tend to see creating ugc as a bridgeway to opportunities for personal brand marketing, or even as potential for job recognition through your company.

3. Consider a Giveaway

One incredibly effective way to encourage your followers to begin creating ugc is by offering a giveaway of your products/services, in exchange for an entrant sharing content that features your company, tags your platform and perhaps even uses a custom hashtag to build some buzz. In a recent article, Hootsuite notes that encouraging ugc via a contest is a great way to generate brand awareness. Your followers will love the opportunity to win some rad stuff, and be creative in the meantime!

I hope these tips help you as you begin fostering ugc within your social media community! As always, feel free to comment below with any questions, and be sure to follow along on FB, Twitter, Instagram and LinkedIn for more on ugc throughout the week!

Let's get social,

Alex