When you start a blog or run a business, it’s important for your audience to actively engage with your content to boost your conversion rate. A great way to do this is through user-generated content (UGC).
User-generated content is a form of social proof used to build trust with customers. Social proof is the psychological phenomenon that occurs when customers see other customers happy with a product. They want to produce the same feeling which encourages them to copy that person’s actions and make a purchase.
Why User-Generated Content Is Important
There’s a reason marketers constantly say that “content is king.” If anything can turn a new visitor into a paying customer, it’s quality content. If they feel like your brand provides them with value, then they’ll want to know more.
User-generated content gives people an insight into brands they’re curious about. If they see customers promoting your products, it tells them to continue browsing. The more they see positive things about your business, the likelier they are to convert.
This type of content also builds brand credibility and shows customers they can trust your brand. With so many options to choose from, it’s crucial that you go the extra mile to prove to users why your brand is worth their investment. Creating UGC takes time and effort, so the more you have, the easier it is to convince new visitors that you’re worth it.
Growing your following and customer base is easier to do with UGC because real customers are vouching for your business. Creating social UGC campaigns strengthens customer relationships and gives you space to interact with your audience.
Building trust with your consumer base takes time, but you can speed up the process and produce conversions by leveraging UGC. Let’s get started.
Create a Social Hashtag Campaign
People love to follow along and participate in the latest trends. Social media is a driver for user-generated content as it encourages users to take part in different online challenges and social events. Challenges like the Ice Bucket Challenge and Mannequin Challenge became popular due to the spread on social media.
Many brands use branded hashtag campaigns to improve their conversions and engagement on social media. People use hashtags to organize their posts in the proper category. When you search for a hashtag on social media, you’re met with relevant content to match.
You can create a hashtag campaign to encourage user-generated content from your customers. As a result, your brand will gain exposure and grow its following. Additionally, you’ll have enough content to use in future campaigns to increase your conversion rate.
Coca Cola’s #ShareACoke campaign encouraged users to upload photos with their Coke products.
Gathering enough UGC means you have neverending content to add to future campaigns. It’s a great way to show people what your brand means to existing customers and how it can improve your life.
Showcase Customer Reviews and Ratings on Your Website
When you first hear about a new product, how often do you look up its reviews before buying? Around 72% of customers won’t take action until they read reviews, which tells you how crucial they are to the buying process.
Because customers need to trust your brand before acting, reviews and ratings do wonders for your business. This type of UGC gives consumers insight that they wouldn’t otherwise have, which either brings them closer or further from making a purchase. If your reviews are primarily positive, it’ll push people to engage further.
Many brands display reviews and ratings on their website so new users get a first-hand look at what existing customers have to say.
Source: WP Mail SMTP
Run an Online Contest
A great way to build brand awareness and get more eyes on your site is by running an online contest or giveaway. People love to win, especially when they get something for free. With little to no effort, their name is inserted into the draw as they await the results. It’s the perfect incentive for users to participate in your campaign.
On top of the excitement that a contest brings to your customers, it also includes them in the conversation. Instead of asking them to only enter, you can also require them to submit user-generated content to be considered.
Starbucks held a White Cup Contest for users to unleash their creativity on their cups. The winner had their design turned into a limited edition tumbler for customers to purchase. In only three weeks, the campaign received more than four thousand entries.
Your Turn
Leveraging UGC in your marketing campaigns doesn’t have to be a hassle. When you understand how it captures your audience, it’s easier to use it in a way that makes sense. If you’re looking for ways to increase brand exposure and improve conversions, then user-generated content is the way to go. How will you implement it into your next campaign?
Syed Balkhi is an award-winning entrepreneur and online marketing expert. He is the co-founder of OptinMonster, WPBeginner, MonsterInsights, and WPForms.