UGC, also known as user-generated content, is material like video and audio created by people instead of companies or brands. You may not even notice seeing UGC, but it’s becoming increasingly common as smartphones enable the average person to become daily content creators.
We’ve also seen it morph over generations, as SocialMediaToday points out: America’s Funniest Home Videos has morphed into YouTube.
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You may notice UGC in the news, whether it be family photos or videos from an Instagram page. The “UGC look” of selfie videos or social media content is even mimicked in shows and movies.
Here’s why UGC is important and why you should know more about it.
it forms a personal connection
UGC feels authentic. It’s material created by anyone and, in turn, doesn’t have that polished, highly produced feel. So it has a natural feel and will feel natural to others. It also forms a connection with your audience.
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it can add to your brand
If you’re targeting a specific demographic you can build customer relationships by reaching out to that audience for UGC. And by using that material, you’re also giving your audience content they create and most likely would like to see more of. So you’re also building your branding by using UGC too.
it’s extra content
UGC is also great because it’s content that you don’t have to make. That alone is huge. By getting access to already produced content you’re saving time and energy.
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it creates a unique experience
UGC gives us the chance to see or experience things we may not otherwise have the opportunity to do. For example, here’s a video a hiker took as he was being followed by a cougar. It can give us private views of unexpected moments and experiences.
Also, remember you always need permission to use other people’s content.
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