Introduction
Finding brand contact emails is like a treasure hunt with real financial rewards. You know the struggle: you’ve got killer content but lack the right connections to turn it into consistent income. When brands ghost you or outreach feels slower than a dial-up connection, it’s time for a new strategy. You need emails that convert into real opportunities.
Imagine knowing exactly where to find those elusive brand contacts. Instead of waiting around, you’re pitching brands directly and filling up your calendar with paid gigs. The key is in the details: verified contacts and pitches that grab attention. Let’s dive into how you can find those emails effectively and start turning conversations into cash.
nding Contacts
Start with LinkedIn—it’s a goldmine for direct contacts. Search for brand managers or marketing directors in your niche. For instance, if you create fitness content, look up brands like Lululemon or Gymshark. Use LinkedIn’s filters to narrow down by location or company size. A realistic goal is to identify 10-15 contacts per week.
Next, check brand websites. Many have press pages or contact forms with direct emails. While it’s not always foolproof, 20% of the time these contacts are still active.
Finally, don’t underestimate the power of networking. Attend industry events—both virtual and in-person—and collect business cards. A creator I know landed a $5000 contract with a wellness brand just by following up with a contact from a digital marketing conference.
fective Email Strategy
Your email needs to stand out in a crowded inbox. Start with a catchy subject line. Instead of “Collaboration Inquiry,” try “Let’s Boost [Brand’s Name]’s Social Engagement Together!”
Keep the body concise but personal. Mention a specific campaign they ran that you admired. For example, “Your recent eco-friendly line was phenomenal; I’d love to create content that highlights your brand’s sustainability.”
Include your rates. It’s a myth that discussing money too soon scares brands away. In fact, transparency can increase your response rate by up to 30%. A simple mention like, “I typically work with brands starting at $300 per post,” sets clear expectations.
mplify Outreach
UGCRoster is invaluable for automating outreach. It offers verified contacts and even helps with Gmail pitches, saving hours of manual search time. Imagine sending out a batch of 50 tailored emails in just an hour.
Hunter.io is another great tool for finding emails using domain searches. With a hit rate of around 60%, it’s a reliable option for quickly gathering contact details.
Consider a CRM like HubSpot to track your outreach efforts. Setting up automated follow-ups can increase your response rate by 20%.
justing Tactics
Track your open and response rates. Aim for an open rate of at least 20% and a response rate of 10%. If you’re not hitting these numbers, tweak your subject lines or personalize your emails further.
Evaluate which types of pitches convert into actual deals. If you notice that brands respond more positively to video pitches, focus your efforts there. Adjusting your strategy based on data can increase your conversion rate by 15%.
oid
- Generic Pitches: Sending the same email to every brand. Brands appreciate when you tailor your message to their specific needs.
- Overlooking Smaller Brands: Creators often chase big names, ignoring smaller brands that might offer more long-term deals.
- Not Following Up: Many creators send one email and give up. Following up at least once can increase your chances by 50%.
- Ignoring Social Media: Sometimes, the best way to connect is through a brand’s social media manager. A simple DM can open doors.
- Poor Timing: Sending emails during holidays or outside of business hours often results in being ignored.
- Lack of Clarity: Failing to clearly state what you offer and how it benefits the brand can lead to confusion and a lack of interest.
- Skipping Analytics: Without analyzing what works, you’re flying blind. Use data to refine your approach.
ntinued Success
First, get your tools in order—sign up for UGCRoster to streamline your outreach. Once you’ve automated your email list, focus on refining your pitch strategy. Analyze the responses you get and adjust accordingly.
Dive deeper into learning about brand partnerships by checking out our other articles on negotiating rates and building long-term relationships. These strategies will help you maximize each opportunity and build a thriving UGC career.
FAQ
What are the best UGC platforms for beginners?
For beginners, platforms like Billo and Join Brands are great because they are user-friendly and have entry-level gigs. For instance, Billo often has campaigns where you get paid $50 for a short video. These platforms help you build a portfolio without needing a massive following. Try starting with a couple of smaller projects to get a feel for the process and gradually move up to higher-paying gigs as you gain experience and confidence.
llo, Incense, or Join Brands?
You should choose based on your content style and goals. Billo is good for video creators with quick turnaround, while Incense offers more diverse gigs. Join Brands is ideal if you want steady gigs and are open to different brand categories. A creator I know earns $300 a month consistently on Join Brands by doing a mix of product reviews and lifestyle posts. Test each platform to see which aligns best with your workflow.
How do I get approved on UGC platforms?
You get approved by creating a compelling profile that highlights your skills and past work. When I applied, I included links to my best content and a brief bio explaining my niche. Platforms often look for authenticity and creativity, so make sure to showcase your unique style. Some platforms, like Billo, may approve you within a week if your portfolio is strong. Consistency and quality are key to making a good impression.
Do UGC platforms take a commission?
Yes, most UGC platforms take a commission from your earnings, typically between 10-20%. For example, if you earn $100 from a gig, you might take home $80 after a 20% commission. This might seem like a lot, but the platform provides access to brands, which can make up for the cut. Just be sure to factor these fees into your pricing strategy so you're still meeting your income goals.
What's the difference between UGC platforms and freelance platforms?
UGC platforms focus specifically on content creation for brands, while freelance platforms like Upwork cover a wide range of services. For instance, on a UGC platform, you might find gigs specifically for TikTok videos, whereas on Upwork, you could also find jobs in graphic design or copywriting. If you're focused solely on content creation, a UGC platform might offer more targeted opportunities and relevant gigs.
Should I apply to multiple platforms?
Yes, applying to multiple platforms can increase your chances of landing gigs. Diversifying keeps your options open and allows you to compare opportunities. I know creators who juggle between three platforms and consistently make $1000 a month. Just be mindful of managing your workload to avoid burnout and ensure you can meet all your commitments with quality content.
How long does it take to get approved?
Approval times vary by platform, often ranging from a few days to a couple of weeks. For example, Join Brands typically reviews applications within 5-7 days. If you're in a niche that's in high demand, you might get approved faster. Use this waiting time to refine your portfolio and possibly reach out to other platforms to maximize your potential gigs once you're approved.
What if I get rejected from a platform?
If you get rejected, take it as a learning opportunity. Review your application and see if you can enhance your portfolio or presentation. I once got rejected from a platform but reapplied a month later with updated content and got accepted. Rejections happen, but they aren't the end. Keep refining your skills and look for feedback if possible, then try again or apply elsewhere.
Are UGC platforms worth it or should I pitch directly?
UGC platforms are worth it for beginners or if you're looking for steady gigs without much outreach effort. A friend of mine uses them to fill gaps between direct pitches, earning an extra $500 a month. If you're more experienced, direct pitching can yield higher-paying gigs. It often depends on your current workload and how much time you can dedicate to outreach.
How competitive are UGC platforms?
UGC platforms can be quite competitive, especially for popular niches like beauty or fitness. However, there are still plenty of opportunities if you have a unique angle. I know a creator who stands out by specializing in eco-friendly products, which helped them land gigs even in a crowded market. Focus on what makes your content different and leverage that to get noticed.