These days, with the prevalence of social media, some of the best marketing for your business doesn’t come from your own campaigns — it comes from your customers in the form of user generated content!
User Generated Content (UGC) is authentic, relatable, and incredibly powerful when it comes to building trust and expanding your reach. But how do you actually find this goldmine of content, and once you have it, what’s the best way to share it? Let’s break it down.
How to Find User Generated Content
- Check reviews and testimonials – Platforms like Google Reviews, Yelp, TripAdvisor, and even product reviews on your website are full of authentic user feedback. With permission, these make excellent UGC for social proof!
- Use social listening tools – Tools like Hootsuite, Sprout Social, Brandwatch, or Later allow you to track mentions, hashtags, and keywords related to your brand — even if users don’t tag you directly.
- Monitor mentions – Keep an eye on your notifications and mentions across platforms like Instagram, Twitter (X), TikTok, and Facebook. Customers often tag brands directly when they’re happy (or even when they’re seeking support).
- Search hashtags – Many customers naturally tag brands in their posts or use popular hashtags. Start by searching for your brand name, product name, and any branded hashtags you’ve created (like #MyBrandStyle or #BrewLove). This is often the easiest place to uncover genuine customer content.
How to Share User Generated Content
- Ask for permission – Before reposting a customer’s content, always ask for permission — even if they’ve tagged your brand. A simple, friendly direct message or comment like “Love your photo! Can we share this on our page with credit?” keeps things professional and respectful.
- Give credit – Always tag the original creator and thank them when you share their content. This shows appreciation and encourages others to create and share as well.
- Make It Part of Your Content Plan – Create a regular slot for UGC on your social media calendar — like a weekly “Fan Friday” or “Customer Spotlight.” This sets clear expectations and invites more people to participate.
- Use UGC in Ads and Website Content – User-generated photos, testimonials, and reviews make excellent material for digital ads, email campaigns, and product pages — just make sure you’ve secured proper permission.
Final Thoughts
Finding and sharing user generated content isn’t just about filling your social feed — it’s about building community and trust around your brand. Customers want to be seen and heard, and when you showcase their stories, you strengthen your connection with them while inspiring others to join in. As an added bonus, this helps build trust with your customer base and creates greater opportunity for social media interaction and buzz for your brand.
