User generated content, or UGC, is content created by customers, fans, users, or creators rather than by the brand itself.
UGC can include reviews, photos, videos, testimonials, unboxings, comments, and community posts.
Brands use UGC as social proof because it can feel more authentic than polished brand content.
When using UGC, brands should get permission, credit creators properly, confirm usage rights, and choose examples that reflect real customer experience.
Make sharing easy and worth doing: branded hashtags, tag prompts, contests, featuring customers on your account, and products or experiences people naturally want to show off.
Yes. Always ask before reposting, credit the creator, and confirm usage rights in writing if the content will appear in ads or other marketing beyond a simple reshare.
Because it reads as a real person recommending something rather than a brand promoting itself. That authenticity earns trust that polished brand creative struggles to match.