If you’ve been thinking about trying UGC (user-generated content) but feel overwhelmed or unsure where to start, you’re not alone. I’ve helped hundreds of students — especially those in their 30s, 40s, 50s and beyond — build UGC side hustles, and I’ve seen the same roadblocks come up again and again.
The good news? Every one of these mistakes is 100% fixable — and often faster than you’d think.
Let’s dive in.👇
❌ 1. Mistake: Waiting to Feel “Ready” Before Starting
This is the #1 mindset block I see — and it’s totally understandable. You don’t feel like an expert. You’re not sure what to say on camera. You feel awkward filming. So you wait.
But here’s the truth: You’ll never feel 100% ready. And no brand expects perfection — they expect real.
✅ Fix it:
Start messy. Record a few short videos with your phone today — even if they’re just for practice. Every video you film builds confidence and helps you improve. (I was awkward in my first ones too — everyone is!)
📁 2. Mistake: Overcomplicating Your Portfolio
A lot of new creators get stuck here. They wait until everything looks “perfect” before showing their work. But perfection is a trap. Your portfolio is meant to show what you can do — not be a Hollywood production.
✅ Fix it:
Focus on 4–6 solid samples showing different video styles:
Talking to camera
Product demonstration
Testimonial-style
Trendy/reel-style with a voiceover
💡 Bonus Tip: Use Google Drive, Notion, or Canva — clean, simple, and free.
💬 3. Mistake: Sending Generic Pitches to Brands
“Hi, I’m a UGC creator. I’d love to work with you.”
That message gets ignored. Why? It doesn’t show you’ve done any research — or explain how you’ll help the brand.
✅ Fix it:
Personalize every pitch. Mention something specific you like about their product, content, or brand voice. Then share how your content could fit right in.
📩 Example:
“Hi [Brand Name], I saw your recent TikTok using real customer reviews — love how genuine it felt! I create authentic-style content like that and would love to send over some samples.”
(This is the kind of script I give you inside The Ultimate UGC Course, with full templates and examples.)
📉 4. Mistake: Undercharging or Working for Free Too Long
I know how tempting it is to accept free product gigs when you’re just starting. But here's the thing: Free content rarely leads to paid content. And once you start working for free, it’s harder to raise your prices.
✅ Fix it:
Even if you’re new, start with fair rates — around $150 per video. As you build confidence and experience, increase accordingly. Add more for usage rights, exclusivity, or rush delivery.
💡 Bonus Tip: Ask yourself: “How much time did this video take me?” You’ll often realize your time is worth more than you think.
📹 5. Mistake: Ignoring Trends and Platform Styles
Each social platform has its own vibe. What works on Instagram might not work on TikTok. And what worked last year might not work today. If you don’t stay in the loop, your videos could feel outdated to brands.
✅ Fix it:
Spend 10 minutes a day scrolling TikTok or Reels like a student. Pay attention to:
Hook styles
Editing techniques
Transitions
Music trends
Then adapt what you see — in your own authentic way. (You don’t need to dance, promise.)
🏁 Final Thought: Progress Beats Perfection Every Time
If you’re making any of these mistakes right now, it doesn’t mean you’re doing UGC “wrong.” It means you’re learning — and that’s exactly how you grow.
Every paid creator started where you are: unsure, awkward, and figuring it out one step at a time. I built my business from zero to six figures, not because I was the best — but because I kept showing up.
And you can too. 🖤
