How To Become A UGC Creator & Start Earnings?

Want to get paid for doing what you already do—filming fire content on your phone? Becoming a UGC (user-generated content) creator is your golden ticket. No fancy equipment or huge following needed, just your creativity and some hustle.

The best part? Unlike influencer marketing, You don’t need a massive following. UGC is all about quality over followers, making it one of the easiest side hustles to start, with potential to go full-time. In fact, 84% of consumers say they trust peer recommendations over branded advertising, which is why brands are investing more than ever in UGC creators.

Let’s break down exactly how to become a UGC creator, get started, land paid gigs, and scale to $2K–$3K/month without overcomplicating it.

What is UGC?

U.G.C. stands for User-Generated Content, authentic, relatable content created by real people (not big-name influencers) to promote products. Think: “I tried this new skincare serum, and here’s what happened…” It feels real, because it is.

With brands constantly hiring UGC creators, there’s never been a better time to learn how to become a UGC content creator and start earning $2K–$3K per month—even without a huge social media following.

Why Do Brands Love UGC?

If you’re wondering how to be a UGC creator, it helps to understand why UGC is in such high demand.

• UGC videos have 4x higher engagement than traditional ads
• It builds trust. People trust people, not polished commercials.
• It’s cost-effective. Brands can hire 5 UGC creators for the price of one ad agency.

UGC doesn’t just “feel” better, it converts better.

Types of UGC Content That Brands Want

To get hired, you need to create content brands are looking for. Here’s what most UGC creator platforms are actively sourcing:

• Unboxings – First impressions of a product
• Tutorials/How-tos – Teach people how to use it
• Testimonials – Share your genuine experience
• Day-in-the-Life – Show the product in your daily routine
• Behind-the-Scenes – Natural, behind-the-scenes shots of usage

This kind of content meets most UGC requirements because it feels natural, unscripted, and honest.

Essential Skills You Need to Be a UGC Creator

No, you don’t need professional equipment or acting lessons. But to get noticed and earn well, you do need a few core skills:

• On-Camera Presence: Be confident, clear, and relatable.
  Storytelling: Hook your audience in the first 3 seconds.
• Basic Filming: Good lighting, clean framing, decent audio.
• Editing: Add captions, transitions, and trending audio clips.
• Trend Awareness: Keep up with viral TikTok or Instagram content.

These are foundational if you’re serious about learning how to get started with UGC and standing out.

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Become UGC Creator

Wondering how to start UGC with no experience or followers? Here’s your roadmap:

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Start simple. Most ugc creators use:

• Smartphone (iPhone or Android)
• Ring light or natural window light
• Tripod or phone stand
• Lavalier mic (optional, for clearer sound)
• Neutral or clean backdrop

Step 2: Film Sample Content

You don’t need brand deals to begin. Film mock content showcasing products you already own. These videos will go into your UGC portfolio.

How to Script Engaging UGC Content

Before you hit record, a strong script makes all the difference even if the video feels spontaneous. Here’s a simple framework:

• Hook (First 3 Seconds): Grab attention right away. Ask a surprising question or make a bold statement.
  Example: “This $10 serum cleared my acne in 5 days, no joke.”
• Pain Point: Highlight a problem your audience relates to.
  Example: “I’ve wasted so much money on skincare that just didn’t work…”
• Solution (Your Product): Introduce the product and show how it solves the problem.
  Example: “This serum changed everything, lightweight, effective, and no breakouts.”
• Call to Action (CTA): Prompt the viewer to take action.
  Example: “You need to try this, link’s in my bio!”

This structure is proven to work in UGC ads. Brands love content that not only looks natural but drives conversions.

Step 3: Build Your Portfolio

Use Google Drive, Canva, or Carrd to organize your work.

Include:

• Short intro bio
• 3–5 sample videos
• Your niche (e.g., beauty, wellness, tech)
• Contact info and rates

Want to increase chances of getting hired? Make your style niche-specific. That’s one of the best tips for success as a UGC creator.

Step 4: Optimize Your Social Media Profiles

Even if you’re not actively posting yet, a well-optimized social media presence increases your chances of being found by brands. Here’s how to do it:

• TikTok & Instagram: Update your bio with keywords like “UGC Creator | Skincare & Wellness | DM for Collabs.” Include your portfolio link.
• LinkedIn: Create a profile titled “Freelance UGC Content Creator” and add a short summary plus your work samples.
• Twitter (Optional): Join UGC communities and follow creators. Use hashtags like #UGCcreator or #UGCjobs to find leads and stay updated.

A polished profile acts as your digital business card. It builds trust before a brand even clicks on your portfolio.

Where to Find Paid UGC Gigs?

Here’s where to find brands and platforms looking for UGC creators needed right now:

1. UGC Creator Platforms (Beginner-Friendly)

• Billo, Trend.io, Insense, or B-roll etc

Pros: Easy to join, fast to apply
Cons: Competitive, rates can start low

2. Freelance Sites (Mid-Level)

• Fiverr, Upwork, PeoplePerHour

Tips:

• Use niche-specific keywords like “TikTok Shop UGC Creator for Skincare”
• Display your best work in a portfolio
• Offer basic to premium pricing tiers (starter, standard, advanced)

3. Partner with a TikTok Shop Agency

Brands are always on the lookout for UGC creators who can deliver authentic, original content. By joining a TikTok Shop agency, you can connect directly with brands seeking genuine product reviews.

You’ll receive free products, create engaging videos, and earn commissions on every sale made through your unique link.

Earn Passive Income with TikTok Affiliate UGC

Want to earn $100–$1,000/month while you sleep? TikTok’s Affiliate Program lets you monetize UGC content with zero upfront costs—here’s how.

How It Works

1. Post UGC-Style Videos – Show products in action (no fancy edits needed).
2. Add Your Affiliate Link – TikTok tracks sales automatically.
3. Earn 5–20% Commissions – Example: A $40 product at 15% = $6/sale.

Why this matters:

With affiliate UGC, your content keeps working even after delivery. The better your content performs, the more you earn without extra effort.

Bonus Perk of Partnering with Agencies

Many TikTok Shop agencies streamline the entire process by offering pre-approved, high-converting products that are already proven to sell well on the platform. Agencies often provide pre-made product pages with optimized descriptions, creatives, and even virtual assistant support for setup, tracking, and performance analytics.

Pro Tip: If you want to earn fast, combine affiliate marketing with UGC content. It’s one of the most scalable income streams in TikTok eCommerce today.

4. Direct Outreach (High-Paying)

• Pitch brands directly on Instagram, TikTok Shop, LinkedIn, or email.
• Focus on small and mid-sized businesses (they’re more likely to respond).

Example Pitch Template:

“Hi [Brand Name], I love your [product] and created a quick UGC sample to show how it could be used in content ads. Let me know if you’d like to collaborate!”

How to Set Rates (And Actually Get Paid)

Here’s what UGC creators typically earn per video:

• Beginner: $50–$150
• Intermediate: $150–$500
• Advanced: $500–$1,500+

Don’t Forget to Send an Invoice

After delivering your content, make sure you send a professional invoice — no invoice, no payment.

Here’s what to include:

• Your name and email
• Client’s name
• Description of service (e.g., “1 TikTok-style video with 2 hooks”)
• Total amount and due date
• Your preferred payment method (PayPal, Wise, Stripe, etc.)

Tools you can use:

• Free: Google Docs, Canva invoice templates
• Paid: Bonsai, Honeybook (automated reminders, contracts + invoices in one place)

Pro Tip: Send your invoice right after delivery and follow up if needed, it shows professionalism and keeps your payments on track.

Boost Your Earnings by Upselling:

Here’s how you can boost your earnings

1. Raw Footage (+$50–$100)

This means providing the unedited, original video clips you shot for the brand. Brands can reuse or edit the footage for different campaigns or formats.

2. Whitelisting (+$200–$500/month)

Whitelisting allows brands to run paid ads through your account using your content.
Your content gets promoted to a larger audience, and brands benefit from your “organic” look in paid ads.
You’re charging for: Usage rights + access to your handle + trust factor.

3. Additional Hooks or Versions (+$30–$50 each)

Hooks are the first 3–5 seconds of a video, which grabs attention. Brands often test multiple hooks to see what performs best.
Example:

• Hook 1: “I’ve never used a serum this good…”
• Hook 2: “Skincare secret I wish I knew earlier…”

You’re charging for: Creating multiple opening scenes or full-length versions for A/B testing.

4. Monthly Packages (Custom pricing)

Instead of one-off gigs, offer a bundle of 3–5 videos per month at a discounted or fixed rate.
Why it’s valuable: Brands prefer consistency. You get stable, repeat income, and they get ongoing content.

Pro Tip: Upsells show professionalism and flexibility, making brands more likely to hire you long-term.

Contracts Matter

Having a contract protects both you and the brand, so always get things in writing. Here’s what to include:

• Usage Rights – Clearly define where and for how long the brand can use your content (e.g., social, ads, paid media).
• Payment Terms – Set expectations: many creators charge 50% upfront and 50% after final delivery.
• Kill Fee – Add a clause to ensure partial payment if the project is canceled after work has started.
• Preferred Payment Platforms – List how you want to get paid (e.g., PayPal, Wise, or Stripe) to avoid delays or confusion.

Scaling Your UGC Business

Once you hit $2K–$3K/month consistently, it’s time to scale.

• Automate: Use templates for pitches and contracts
• Outsource: Hire an editor to save time
• Expand: Offer social media management or affiliate marketing
• Grow your TikTok Shop with Experts: Let TikTok Shop Virtual Assistants manage the backend while you focus on creating content that drives sales.

These steps help you move from side hustle to full-time business

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-editing – UGC should look real, not perfect
• No niche focus – Specialists get hired faster and paid more
• Ignoring trends – Stay active on TikTok and Instagram
• Undervaluing yourself – Say no to “free product only” deals

Conclusion

If you’re still wondering how to become a UGC creator, the answer is simple: start today. You don’t need a huge following or expensive gear. You just need:

• A smartphone
• A few creative ideas
• The willingness to pitch brands directly or through an agency or sign up on a UGC creator platform

Challenge for You:

• Film one UGC video this week
• Upload your portfolio
• Reach out to 3 brands or join a UGC platform

The demand is high, and UGC creators are needed more than ever. Why not be the next one earning $2K–$3K/month doing what you already love?

Ready to start your eCommerce journey with our TikTok Shop Agency?

Comment below and our team will reach out to connect you with brands and get you started!

FAQs

1. Can anyone be a UGC creator?

Yes! Anyone with a smartphone, basic content skills, and creativity can become a UGC creator.

• You don’t need to be an influencer.
• Brands look for authentic, relatable content over professional-looking videos.
• People of all ages, backgrounds, and niches are welcome.

2. How to start being a UGC creator?

Here’s how to get started:

• Learn what UGC is – Understand it’s about creating brand-related content that looks organic and trustworthy.
• Pick your niche – Beauty, fitness, tech, parenting, fashion, etc.
• Create a sample portfolio – Make 3–5 mock videos or images for hypothetical brands.
• Set up your profile – On platforms like TikTok, Instagram, or UGC marketplaces.
• Start pitching brands, join an agency or sign up on UGC platforms like Billo, JoinBrands, or Trend.
• Keep improving your camera work, editing, and scriptwriting.

3. How many followers do you need to be a UGC creator?

Zero.
You do not need followers to become a UGC creator because:

• UGC is not posted on your own social media, it’s created for brands to use on their channels.
• Brands value content quality and relatability, not popularity.
• You just need a good portfolio and willingness to create content.