While scrolling through your social media fees, you more than likely have come across some form of user-generated content. In recent years, this form of content has risen in popularity for many businesses. Why? People trust people. 

Reports state that 84 percent of consumers say they trust peer recommendations above other forms of advertising. If you do not know where to start, our social media Denver team has created this helpful guide to give you the rundown on user-generated content. 

What is user-generated content (UGC)?

User-generated content (also known as UGC or consumer-generated content) is a term that describes any type of content - text, videos, images and reviews, etc. - created by people rather than brands. This form of content is usually shared by users on social media or other channels. 

Since this form of the content does not come from brands, where does it come from? User-generated content may come from:

• Customers - people who organically decided to share content about your brand

• Brand loyalists - people who are passionate about the brand

• Employees - people who show the value and story behind your brand

The different types of user-generated content

If your brand is lucky enough to get user-generated content, you should try to include it in your digital marketing strategies. Here are some types of user-generated content:

• Images

• Videos 

• Social media content - like tweets

• Testimonials 

• Live streams 

• Blog posts 

• Youtube content 

Why is user-generated content so important?

Collecting user-generated content might take some time to collect, but the benefits are worth it. Using user-generated content in your digital marketing strategies increases authenticity and builds trust. Both of these things help nurture and generate leads. 

For many younger audiences, authenticity is an important deciding factor when supporting a brand. You can make your brand more authentic through the use of user-generated content. According to a consumer report, 88 percent said authenticity was important, and 50 percent proclaimed it was really important. 

If you are looking for a powerful tool to build trust, then user-generated content is key. With so much information on the Internet, consumers find it hard to trust brands. According to a report, 78 percent of consumers trust peer reviews over advertising messages. 

Some examples of best user-generated content

thredUP

thredUP is an online consignment and thrift store that allows people to buy and sell high-quality secondhand clothes. To increase their company’s reach and the importance of second hand fashion, thredUP asks users to share their finds using the hashtag #ThriftLoudly. 

Rare Beauty

Another brand using user-generated content is Rare Beauty. This brand’s mission is to break down unrealistic standards of perfection. It accomplishes this by sharing user-generated content from Instagram, Twitter and TikTok across its platforms. 

Are you looking for a social media Denver agency?

Hire Denver Media Group! Our creative team can help manage your company’s social media channels. We can help create captivating content that will raise awareness and generate leads. Plus, our team oversees your social media channels so you can focus on other important matters. Contact us to get started today!