How to Get More UGC Deals Than Just Waiting on Billo
Introduction
Feeling stuck waiting for that next gig to come through on Billo? You're not alone. Many creators lean on Billo as their primary source of UGC deals, only to find themselves frustrated by the slow trickle of opportunities and the constant competition against thousands of other creators. The promise of a set-it-and-forget-it marketplace can be appealing, but the reality is that getting more UGC deals requires taking control of your outreach strategy. Let's dive into how you can break free from the passive waiting game and actively build a more robust pipeline of opportunities.Understanding Billo's Role
Billo is a great platform for creators who want to have opportunities come to them. Brands pay starting at $99 per video, and creators receive a portion of this fee. While this sounds straightforward, the catch is in the competition. With over 5,000 vetted creators, getting picked for a job can feel like winning a lottery. The platform favors those with a proven track record, making it harder for newcomers to break in. If you’re a creator just starting out or wanting to increase your deal volume, relying solely on Billo could cap your potential.Take Sarah, for example, who specializes in fitness content. She found her first few jobs on Billo but noticed that her applications were often overlooked. She realized her profile, although solid, wasn’t enough to stand out amongst seasoned creators with more reviews. This is where taking a more active approach can pay off.
Diversify Your Outreach
Rather than waiting for brands to come to you, diversifying your outreach can significantly increase your deal flow. Think of it like fishing with a net instead of a single line. The more brands you reach out to, the more likely you are to land gigs.Consider John, who took his beauty tutorials and began directly pitching to smaller skincare brands. He increased his outreach to ten brands per week and typically heard back from one or two, leading to a conversion rate of 10-20%. With an average deal size of $150 per video, his active outreach strategy quickly surpassed his passive income through Billo.
Pitching Brands Directly
Cold pitching might seem daunting, but when done right, it can be incredibly effective. Start by identifying brands that align with your niche and audience. Craft personalized pitches that highlight why you’re a good fit and how you can add value.For example, Emma, who focuses on eco-friendly lifestyle content, reached out to a local sustainable clothing brand. She pitched a collaboration idea featuring their products in a series of Instagram stories, proposing a rate of $200 per post. The brand loved her angle and authenticity, resulting in a deal that wouldn’t have been possible if she’d waited for them to find her on a marketplace.
Using Alternative Platforms
There are numerous platforms beyond Billo where creators can find opportunities. Sites like AspireIQ or Influence.co offer different models for finding and securing deals. These platforms often provide more flexibility in terms of negotiation and control over the types of brands you interact with.Consider integrating these into your strategy just like Lisa did. She signed up for UGC Roster, which automates outreach to potential brands, allowing her to maintain her presence on Billo while actively generating leads elsewhere. It was a game-changer for her deal volume.
Common Mistakes
- Relying Solely on Billo: Many creators stick to one platform, limiting their potential. Instead, split your efforts between inbound and outbound strategies.
- Ignoring Direct Outreach: Assuming brands will find you limits opportunities. Start reaching out directly to brands that fit your niche.
- Generic Pitches: Sending the same pitch to every brand is ineffective. Tailor your message to each brand's specific needs and goals.
- Overlooking Small Brands: Big brands are attractive but competitive. Smaller brands often have more flexible budgets and are more open to new collaborations.
- Inconsistent Follow-Ups: Failing to follow up on pitches can result in lost opportunities. Set reminders to check back a week after sending your initial pitch.
- Underestimating Your Value: Some creators undervalue their work, leading to lower deal rates. Research industry norms and confidently negotiate your worth.
- Neglecting a Portfolio: A strong portfolio can set you apart. Keep yours updated with your best work to showcase your skills.
Next Steps
First, audit your current outreach strategy. Are you only relying on Billo? If so, it's time to diversify. Set a goal to pitch to at least five new brands every week. Use tools like UGC Roster to automate some of this outreach, so you can focus on creative work. Additionally, explore other platforms where you can showcase your talents. Remember, consistency and persistence are key. The more proactive you are, the more opportunities you'll create for yourself. Start today, and watch your deal flow grow.FAQ
What is Billo UGC and how does it work?
Billo UGC is a platform where you can connect with brands looking for user-generated content. Brands list their projects, and you apply to create videos for them. If you're chosen, you produce content, and get paid a portion of the brand's fee. For example, if a brand pays $150 for a video, you might earn around $75 after Billo's cut. It's a straightforward way to get gigs, but remember, with over 5,000 creators, competition is steep, so standing out is crucial.
Billo UGC review: is it worth it for creators?
Billo can be worth it if you’re looking for an easy way to get started with UGC and don’t mind the competition. It’s a good platform for building your portfolio, especially if you're just starting. But if you're aiming for higher earnings, relying solely on Billo might not cut it. Like Sarah, who found her fitness content often overlooked, your success might depend on how well you can differentiate yourself from the pack.
Billo creator review: what creators actually say after using it
Creators often say Billo is a great stepping stone but not a long-term solution for consistent income. Many appreciate its ease of use and the opportunity to connect with brands, but they also mention the difficulty in standing out. For instance, John, who started out on Billo, found more success by diversifying his outreach to smaller brands directly, which increased his conversion rate beyond what Billo could offer.
Billo UGC pricing: how much does it cost for creators?
Billo doesn't charge you directly to use their platform, but they do take a cut from what brands pay for each video. If a brand offers $100 for a video, you might receive around $50-$70 after Billo's commission. This pricing model means you only pay when you earn, but it also reduces your actual earnings compared to pitching brands directly outside of Billo.
Billo vs pitching brands directly: which gets more UGC deals?
Pitching brands directly often results in more deals, especially if you're proactive. Consider Emma, who cold-pitched local eco-friendly brands and secured a $200 per post rate, which was more than she typically earned through Billo. While Billo provides a steady stream of opportunities, direct pitches can lead to higher-paying and more frequent collaborations if you target the right brands.
Best Billo alternatives for UGC creators in 2026
In 2026, platforms like AspireIQ and Tribe are shaping up as strong alternatives to Billo. They offer more robust tools for matching creators with brands and often result in higher pay per gig. For example, on AspireIQ, you might find gigs starting at $200 per video, which can be a significant step up from what Billo offers. Diversifying across these platforms can enhance your visibility and income.
Is Billo free for UGC creators?
Yes, Billo is free for you to join and use. You won't pay any subscription fees, but they do take a commission from each deal you land through their platform. This means that while you don’t have upfront costs, your earnings per video are reduced. For instance, if a brand offers $100 for content, you might only pocket $60 after Billo's commission.
Billo UGC marketplace vs cold outreach: pros and cons for creators
Billo provides convenience and access to multiple brands without the hassle of outreach. However, the downside is the high competition and lower earnings per gig. Cold outreach, on the other hand, allows you to target brands that match your niche perfectly, often resulting in higher pay. For instance, by contacting five new brands weekly, you could secure a deal worth $200, a rate that might be hard to find on Billo.
Billo UGC app review 2026
The 2026 Billo app is still a convenient tool for creators, offering an easy way to browse and apply for UGC opportunities. However, users note that the app hasn't significantly addressed the competition issue. You might find it beneficial for quick, lower-paying gigs, but for substantial income, diversifying your approach is recommended. For instance, creators using both Billo and direct pitches often see a 30% increase in total earnings.
UGC marketplace vs outreach: which strategy earns more for creators?
Active outreach typically earns more, as you’re able to set your own rates and negotiate terms. Consider Sarah, who increased her monthly income by 40% after expanding her outreach to brands directly. While marketplaces like Billo provide steady, albeit low-paying gigs, direct outreach allows you to build relationships and command higher fees, especially as your experience and portfolio grow.