Introduction
You sent out a killer UGC pitch last week, but your inbox is still as quiet as a library on a Monday morning. You know your content is top-notch, and you even tailored your pitch to align perfectly with the brand's aesthetic and values. So, why haven't they responded? You're not alone in this frustration. Many creators hit 'send' and then fall into the waiting game, unsure of how to proceed when the brand doesn't bite immediately. The good news is that a strategic follow-up can often turn radio silence into a conversation—and possibly a paid gig.
Why Following Up Matters
Ignoring a follow-up is like leaving money on the table. Brands are inundated with pitches; your initial message could have been missed or buried under a pile of emails. Following up not only demonstrates your genuine interest but also places your pitch back at the top of their inbox. Statistically speaking, 60% of deals are won after the follow-up, according to industry data. Imagine pitching to a health and wellness brand offering $500 per video content, but you never nudge them and they end up hiring someone else simply because they saw that creator's name more frequently. A follow-up might just be the reminder they need to prioritize your proposal.
Timing Your Follow-Up
Timing is everything. Too soon, and you might seem impatient; too late, and they might have forgotten your pitch altogether. A solid rule of thumb is to wait 5-7 business days after your initial outreach before sending your first follow-up. This gives the brand enough time to evaluate your proposal while keeping your name fresh in their mind. For instance, if you pitched a skincare brand last Tuesday, aim to follow up by the following Wednesday or Thursday. If you still don't hear back, a second follow-up about 10 days later is reasonable. Remember, persistence is key, but respect their space.
Crafting the Perfect Message
Your follow-up message should be concise and to the point. More words aren't necessarily better here. Start with a polite reminder of your previous pitch and reiterate what value you bring. For example, "Hi [Brand's Name], I wanted to touch base regarding the proposal I sent last week about collaborating on your summer skincare campaign. I believe my recent project with [Another Brand] could provide insights and value to your current marketing strategy." Always include a call to action like, "I'd love to hear your feedback or any questions you might have." Keep it short—aim for 3-4 sentences.
Leveraging Multiple Channels
Don't limit yourself to email. If you haven't received a response, consider using other channels to make contact. This could be a direct message on LinkedIn or Instagram, especially if that's where the brand is most active. For instance, if you're targeting a streetwear brand that's active on Instagram, a quick DM reiterating your email can jog their memory. Studies show that response rates can increase by 20% when multiple channels are used for follow-up. Tools like UGCRoster can help automate this process, ensuring you're reaching out through the most effective channels without manually tracking each one.
Common Mistakes
1. Following up too soon: Creators often feel anxious and follow up within 1-2 days. This can come off as pushy. Instead, wait for at least 5 business days.
2. Being too aggressive: Sending multiple follow-ups in quick succession can annoy brands. Space them out by at least a week.
3. Not personalizing the follow-up: A generic message can appear as spam. Reference specific aspects of the brand or previous interactions to personalize your message.
4. Ignoring other communication channels: Sticking only to email when the brand might be more responsive on social media is a missed opportunity.
5. Overexplaining: Keep your follow-up brief. Avoid long paragraphs that may deter busy brand managers from reading your message.
6. Not including a call to action: Failing to tell the brand what you want from them next can lead to no response. Be clear about wanting feedback or a meeting.
7. Forgetting to check your tone: Ensure your message remains professional and friendly, not demanding or frustrated.
Next Steps
First, review your previous pitches and identify which brands haven't responded after your initial contact. Use UGCRoster's features to organize these contacts and draft your follow-up emails. Schedule your first follow-up for those who are 5-7 days out and plan a second round for those who don't respond after another 10 days. Meanwhile, explore UGCRoster’s platform to find verified contacts and automate outreach, which can significantly reduce the time you spend on manual tracking and follow-ups. Finally, remember to always be revisiting and refining your approach based on what yields the best results. Keep pushing, because the next follow-up could be the one that lands you your next big gig.
FAQ
What are the best UGC platforms for beginners?
For beginners, platforms like Billo and Incense are great starting points. They offer structured environments to connect with brands without the hassle of cold pitching. For instance, Billo connects you with brands looking for video content and often has gigs that pay around $100 per video. These platforms simplify the process, letting you focus more on creating and less on the tedious business side. Just remember, while they ease the entry, they might not offer the highest paying gigs initially.
Should I use Billo, Incense, or Join Brands?
Choosing between Billo, Incense, or Join Brands depends on your goals. Billo is perfect for short video gigs, often paying $100 per video. Incense is great if you're looking for a variety of content types, from photos to videos, with gigs ranging up to $250. Join Brands, meanwhile, offers a broader scope, suitable for those wanting long-term partnerships. Try a mix to see where you fit best, as some platforms might cater better to your style and content expertise.
How do I get approved on UGC platforms?
To get approved, focus on showcasing a strong portfolio and relevant experience. For example, if you’re applying to a platform like Join Brands, highlight previous collaborations or successful campaigns you’ve managed. Typically, platforms look for quality content and reliability. Make sure your profile is complete and professional, reflecting your best work. It’s like applying for a job; first impressions matter, so ensure your portfolio aligns with the type of work the platform supports.
Do UGC platforms take a commission?
Yes, most UGC platforms take a commission, usually ranging between 10% to 20% of your earnings. For instance, if you earn $200 from a gig on Incense, you might actually take home around $160 after the platform's cut. This fee often covers the cost of maintaining the platform and providing you with access to brand partnerships. Knowing this upfront helps you price your services appropriately and understand what your net earnings will be.
What's the difference between UGC platforms and freelance platforms?
UGC platforms specialize in connecting creators with brands specifically for user-generated content, streamlining the process for both parties. Freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr offer a wider range of gigs, from writing to graphic design, but lack the niche focus on UGC. For example, on Billo, you'll find gigs purely related to content creation for brands, whereas Upwork might offer a broader array of freelance opportunities, requiring more effort to find relevant UGC work.
Should I apply to multiple platforms?
Yes, applying to multiple platforms increases your chances of landing gigs. Different platforms have varying client bases and opportunities, so having a presence on several can keep you busier. For instance, while Billo might offer more video content gigs, Join Brands may provide longer-term collaborations. Diversifying your presence ensures you're not reliant on one source and can tap into different types of opportunities, especially when one platform is slow.
How long does it take to get approved?
Approval times vary, but it typically takes about 1 to 2 weeks. For instance, on a platform like Billo, you might hear back within a week, while others like Join Brands could take a bit longer due to more rigorous vetting processes. Use this waiting period to enhance your portfolio or prepare content samples. If you're waiting longer than two weeks, consider reaching out to their support for an update on your application status.
What if I get rejected from a platform?
If you get rejected, don't be discouraged. Use it as a learning opportunity to refine your portfolio and try again. For example, if Join Brands turns you down, review their feedback if available, and tweak your profile to better match their requirements. Rejection often means there's room for improvement, not the end of the road. You can also explore other platforms in the meantime, as each has different criteria and client expectations.
Are UGC platforms worth it or should I pitch directly?
UGC platforms can be worth it for ease and access to a network of brands, especially when starting out. However, direct pitching allows for potentially higher earnings and control over your rates and terms. For instance, while you might earn $100 per gig on Billo, direct clients might pay $200 or more for the same work. It's often best to use platforms for steady work while simultaneously building direct relationships for higher-paying opportunities.
How competitive are UGC platforms?
UGC platforms are competitive, but not impossibly so. With many creators vying for gigs, having a standout portfolio is crucial. For example, on Incense, you may compete with hundreds of creators for a single campaign, especially if the brand offers higher rates. However, consistent quality, niche expertise, and timely application can give you an edge. Treat it like any other job market—showcase your unique value to rise above the competition.