Whenever you want to promote your products or services online, you naturally want to invest in things such as a website, blog, email marketing or social media content.
But could your secret weapon to sales success lie in not what you say about your business, but what your customers are saying instead?
The name of the game here is user-generated content (UGC).
Learn from the digital marketing experts here at Imaginaire about what UGC is and how it can transform your marketing strategy.
What Is User-Generated Content (UCG)?
User-generated content is defined as any type of digital content that is created by genuine customers rather than anyone associated with the business.
Examples of UGC can include a mixture of the following:
- Blog posts with mentions or backlinks
- Customer-uploaded photos
- Online reviews
- Personal feedback from the customer
- Podcast mentions
- Social media comments
- Testimonials
- Video reviews
Essentially, think of any platform or method where customers can share their honest feedback about your business, products or services.
As a business, you can then collect UGC to use within your marketing materials.
Why Is User-Generated Content So Valuable For Businesses?
When we are looking to make buying decisions, we often look for reassurance that the company is genuine or that the products or services will meet our needs. Understandably, every business wants to shout from the rooftops claiming that it is the best option to get you to spend money as a customer—but do we really believe it?
User-generated content offers that second, and most importantly independent opinion that can be instrumental in informing and persuading customers.
Seeing UGC instils trust, and can also be used to help potential customers get the most out of their experience with your business depending on the nature of the feedback.
How To Find User-Generated Content (UCG)
Based on the above places where you can collect UGC, it’s safe to say you will need to actively set up and monitor various online channels.
These include:
Online review platforms – Create a profile on platforms such as Trustpilot, Yell, Checkatrade and other review platforms relevant to your industry. Encourage users to leave a review after purchasing by including a link within the message.
Google My Business – Ensure your business has a Google My Business profile set up so that customers can leave reviews. A huge advantage of GMB is that your products or services will show up on the map which can also help you find new customers, especially if you are a local business or have a physical store.
Social media – Platforms such as Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, X and YouTube can also be used to promote your business, while also encouraging reviews that can be used as UGC.
SEO software – Monitor backlinks and mentions of your website to find customers or other businesses who are talking about your business online.
Implementing UGC Into Your Marketing Strategy
Whoever is monitoring your digital marketing should be collecting a steady stream of user-generated content. The likes of screenshots or links should be saved in a folder or spreadsheet so that they can be accessed when needed.
From there, UGC should appear on your website, on social media posts and in any physical advertising.
The purpose of doing this is to make your digital marketing less about you, and more about showing that you understand the wants and needs of your customers.
If the UGC mentions certain products or services, then it can be filtered based on any promotions you are looking to run now or in the future.
Looking To Build Trust And Authenticity With Your Customers? Imaginaire Can Help
User-generated content is one of the best ways to show potential customers that your business is genuine. However, getting and also implementing USC requires a dedicated team to oversee your digital marketing channels.
If your business is yet to win at any aspect of digital marketing, then the Imaginaire team is here to help.
Take a look at our work across web design, SEO, PPC and more to learn more about what we do.
Alternatively, please drop us a message about how we can help you succeed online and our team will be in touch.
