Introduction
If you're stuck in a cycle of sending pitches and hearing crickets, you're not alone. UGC pitching strategy can be tricky, especially when you're deciding whether to target small brands or shoot for the big leagues. Maybe you've tried both, only to face slow outreach and inconsistent responses. It's frustrating. The good news? There's a strategic way to approach this that can maximize your efforts and increase your chances of landing paid deals.
How do you decide where to focus your efforts? Should you send that perfectly crafted pitch to the local coffee shop with a few thousand followers on Instagram, or aim high and target a national brand with deep pockets? Both have their pros and cons, and knowing which to tackle first depends on your goals, your experience, and the resources you have at hand.
UGCRoster can help you automate brand outreach, offering verified contacts and easy Gmail pitch integrations, but knowing who to pitch to first can make all the difference. Let's break down the benefits of each approach.
tching to Small Brands
Small brands are often more accessible and can be more open to working with new UGC creators. For instance, pitching to a local boutique that has just launched an online store could be a great way to start. They may have a marketing budget of around $500 to $2,000 for UGC content per month, which is often less intimidating and more negotiable compared to bigger brands.
These smaller entities usually have less red tape, meaning your pitch reaches the decision-maker faster, often within a week. This increases your chances of getting a response. For a creator like you, this could mean a 30-50% response rate, significantly higher than with large brands. A friend of mine pitched to a small eco-friendly skincare line and snagged a $750 deal for a series of Instagram posts. This wouldn't have been possible if she had only targeted large brands.
Additionally, small brands tend to value personal relationships. They may be more willing to engage in a back-and-forth email exchange, giving you the chance to showcase your personality and creativity. Plus, once you establish a successful collaboration, these brands often return for more work, providing a more stable income.
g Brands
Big brands come with the allure of bigger budgets and broader reach. For example, if you land a gig with a major retail chain, you're looking at possible deals ranging from $1,000 to $10,000, depending on the project scope and your experience level. This can make a substantial impact on your income.
These brands also offer the chance to significantly boost your portfolio. Having a recognizable name attached to your work can open doors to more prestigious opportunities. A colleague managed to secure a project with a well-known sportswear company, which not only paid $5,000 for a few TikTok videos but also led to collaborations with two other major brands within the next six months.
The downside? Larger brands often have more complex approval processes and longer timelines. You might wait two to three weeks just to get a response, and even longer to finalize contracts. However, if you're prepared for a longer engagement process and can handle potential delays, the payoff can be well worth it.
alysis: Small vs Big
Choosing between small and big brands depends largely on your current situation. If you're newer to the UGC scene or looking to quickly build up your portfolio and income, small brands can offer a faster, more responsive experience. They typically respond within 7-10 days and offer consistent work once you've established a relationship.
On the other hand, if you're more established and have the patience to navigate longer processes, targeting big brands can lead to higher-paying projects. These deals can take 1-2 months from initial contact to completion but can significantly boost your earnings and reputation.
Consider your current workload, experience, and financial needs. If you're in a position to juggle both, start with small brands to build momentum while simultaneously sending pitches to big brands as a long-term strategy.
Common Mistakes in UGC Pitching
- Not personalizing pitches: Creators often send generic pitches. Brands want to feel special. Use specific details about the brand to show you've done your homework.
- Ignoring brand values: Some creators pitch without understanding the brand's mission. Brands appreciate alignment with their values. Research these and mention them in your pitch.
- Overpromising results: In an effort to stand out, some creators promise unrealistic outcomes. This sets you up for failure. Be honest about what you can deliver.
- Poor follow-up strategy: Many creators fail to follow up appropriately. Use a structured follow-up schedule. A simple reminder email after 7 days can increase response rates by 20%.
- Neglecting to showcase previous successes: Failing to highlight past work can be a missed opportunity. Include specific metrics from past projects to demonstrate your effectiveness.
- Underestimating the power of automation: Doing everything manually is time-consuming. Tools like UGCRoster can streamline your outreach and keep pitches organized.
- Skipping the call to action: Some pitches lack a clear next step. Always include a specific call to action, like setting up a call or asking for their campaign timelines.
Next Steps for UGC Creators
Start small. If you're new, focus on pitching to small brands to gain quick wins and build a portfolio. Use UGCRoster to automate and organize your outreach. Once you have a few successful projects, begin targeting larger brands. This dual approach balances immediate income with long-term growth.
For more advanced strategies, check out our resources on effective pitch templates and how to leverage analytics to refine your outreach. These tools can help you craft a more compelling case for why brands should work with you. Remember, the key is persistence and continuous improvement. Happy pitching!
FAQ
What are the best UGC platforms for beginners?
For beginners, platforms like Billo and Incense are top choices because they simplify the brand outreach process. Billo, for example, lets you create video content for brands without needing a massive social following. One friend of mine started on Billo and landed her first gig within two weeks, earning $200 for a simple unboxing video. These platforms streamline the process, making it easier to build your portfolio as you learn the ropes.
llo, Incense, or Join Brands?
Choosing between Billo, Incense, or Join Brands depends on your strengths and goals. Billo is great if you love creating video content, as it focuses heavily on this medium. Incense offers a more diverse range of projects, from product photography to short-form videos, which can be appealing if you want variety. Join Brands, on the other hand, might be ideal if you're looking for a wider array of brand connections. I know someone who used Join Brands to secure a recurring deal with a fashion startup, netting $300 per month.
How do I get approved on UGC platforms?
To get approved, you need to showcase your skills through a strong portfolio or sample work. Platforms often look for quality content that aligns with their client brands. For instance, a friend of mine got approved on Billo by creating a mock product review video that demonstrated her editing skills and engaging style. Don't underestimate the power of a well-crafted sample—it can be your ticket in the door.
Do UGC platforms take a commission?
Yes, UGC platforms usually take a commission, typically ranging from 10% to 20% of your earnings. This fee covers their service of connecting you with brands and managing the logistics. For example, if you earn $500 from a project, you might take home $400 after a 20% commission. While it might feel like a chunk, consider it a fee for the convenience of streamlined access to paying gigs.
What's the difference between UGC platforms and freelance platforms?
UGC platforms are specialized in connecting creators with brands specifically for user-generated content, streamlining the process with tools like pitch templates and brand matchmaking. In contrast, freelance platforms like Upwork or Fiverr host a wide variety of gigs, from graphic design to writing. A friend of mine uses both—UGC platforms for consistent content gigs and Upwork for broader freelance opportunities, providing a diversified income stream.
Should I apply to multiple platforms?
Yes, applying to multiple platforms increases your chances of landing gigs. Different platforms have unique brand partnerships and project types. I know a creator who juggled Billo, Incense, and Join Brands, which helped her secure varied projects and learn what type of content she enjoyed most. More platforms mean more opportunities, but balance is key to avoid being overwhelmed.
How long does it take to get approved?
Approval times vary by platform but typically range from a few days to a couple of weeks. For example, Billo might approve you within 3 to 5 business days if your portfolio aligns with their needs. However, don't stress if it takes longer—use the waiting period to refine your skills and prepare for when the gigs start rolling in.
What if I get rejected from a platform?
Rejection isn't the end; it's a cue to refine your approach. If you get rejected, review your portfolio, improve your samples, and try again. A friend of mine was initially rejected by Incense but took a month to enhance her content quality and reapplied, eventually securing her first project. Use rejection as motivation to elevate your work and try multiple platforms.
Are UGC platforms worth it or should I pitch directly?
UGC platforms are worth it for those who prefer streamlined access to gigs without cold emailing. They offer verified brands and reduce the time spent on outreach. However, direct pitching can lead to personalized opportunities and higher pay. A creator I know used platforms for steady work but doubled her income by also pitching directly to small local brands. Combining both strategies can optimize your success.
How competitive are UGC platforms?
UGC platforms can be competitive, especially for popular categories like beauty or fashion. However, niches with less saturation, such as eco-friendly products, can offer more opportunities. A friend found success in the eco-friendly niche on Billo, landing multiple projects by showcasing her genuine interest in sustainability. Standing out with a unique style or niche focus can give you an edge over the competition.