Stay True to You
Let’s kick things off with the golden rule of UGC: authenticity is your superpower. Whether you’re all about that minimalistic chic or you’re the queen of quirky memes, your audience follows you for your unique voice. Take a page out of Toby Rosario’s playbook. If you’ve checked out his TikTok, you’ll see how he effortlessly weaves in branded content without losing that witty, relatable charm. The key? He stays true to himself—every. single. time.
Tip: When collaborating with brands, make sure their values align with yours. If you’re vibing with the brand, it’s going to shine through in your content. It’s like finding the perfect pair of jeans—they’ve gotta fit you just right.
Show, Don’t Tell
You know what’s better than talking about a product? Showing how it fits into your life. It’s not about holding up a product like a game show model; it’s about telling a story. Take a cue from Fayt the Label on TikTok. They’ve nailed the art of seamlessly integrating products into their content in a way that feels organic and, most importantly, relatable. Instead of saying, “Here’s a cool jacket,” they show you how it fits into a day at the beach, a night out, or even a casual coffee run.
Pro Tip: Create content that highlights how a product solves a problem or enhances your life. Think of it as a subtle flex—it’s not about what you’re saying, but how you’re showing it.
Make it Fun!
Let’s be real—no one wants to watch an ad disguised as a TikTok. That’s where a little creativity comes in. Jaz Hand Made knows how to keep things fun and fresh. Their TikTok is filled with content that doesn’t take itself too seriously, which is why it resonates. They’re masters at creating branded content that feels like a natural extension of their usual posts—full of personality, humour, and a whole lot of heart.
Hack: Inject your content with some of that good old-fashioned fun. Whether it’s through humour, behind-the-scenes moments, or a playful challenge, make sure your personality shines through. If you’re having fun, your audience will too.
Case in Point: RISER’s Winning Strategies
Here’s where we toot our own horn a bit (but in a cool, non-cringe way). At RISER, we’ve worked with some pretty amazing creators who’ve mastered the art of authentic UGC.
Our case studies are packed with examples of how influencers have turned branded content into something that feels real and relatable. From partnerships that feel like natural extensions of the creator’s brand to campaigns that have audiences engaging, not just watching, we’ve seen it all.
Check out our case studies for a deeper dive into how we help creators like you keep it real while keeping those brand deals rolling in.
Engage with Your Audience
Lastly, let’s not forget about the power of engagement. Your audience isn’t just a number—it’s a community. Reply to comments, ask questions, and make your followers feel like they’re part of the journey. Authentic UGC isn’t just about the content you create, but about the connection you build with your audience.
Final Thought: Keep it real, keep it fun, and most importantly, keep it you. Your audience will thank you, and so will the brands that are lucky enough to work with you.
That’s it, folks! Go out there and create some killer UGC that not only resonates but also amplifies your personal brand. And remember, when in doubt, just be yourself—because that’s what your audience loves the most.