If you’ve ever thought,
"Why would a brand choose me when there are so many other creators out there?"
—you’re not alone. The truth is, you don’t need to be the most popular or have the fanciest gear to get hired.
You just need to show up in a way that makes brands say:
💡 “This person gets it.”
Here are 5 smart ways to stand out — and stay top of mind when brands are picking creators for their next campaign.
1. Create a Portfolio That Solves Problems
A lot of UGC portfolios are just a bunch of random videos. That’s a mistake.
Instead, organize your portfolio around the types of content brands actually need — and showcase how your videos solve problems.
Examples of portfolio categories:
Product Demos
Voiceover Videos
Testimonial-Style Videos
Before & Afters
Problem → Solution Videos
Trend-Based Content
📌 Pro tip: In each video caption, explain what type of brand it was meant for or what marketing goal it supports. That shows strategy.
2. Add a Personalized Pitch to Every Outreach Message
Copy-paste messages get ignored. Period.
The brands you're reaching out to are probably getting dozens of generic DMs a week. What makes yours different?
Try this simple formula:
Start with a real observation about the brand’s content (what’s missing, what’s working, etc.)
Mention a specific type of content you’d love to create
Keep it short and professional
Example:
“Hi [Brand], I love how your page focuses on energy and productivity—but I didn’t see much user content about your nighttime formula. I’d love to create a calming bedtime routine-style video to help your audience see that side of the product.”
3. Respond Like a Professional (Not Just a Creator)
Want to stand out instantly? Treat UGC like a business.
When a brand replies to your pitch:
Respond within 24 hours
Be polite, clear, and confident
Have your rates ready
Ask smart questions like:
“What’s your goal for this video?” or “Who’s your target audience?”
📌 Most brands are used to creators who ghost or don’t follow through. Being reliable is a superpower.
4. Use Storytelling in Your UGC (Not Just Aesthetic Shots)
Pretty footage isn’t enough anymore. Brands want emotion and narratives that viewers can relate to.
Try this 3-step story format:
The Problem – “I was so tired of wasting money on moisturizers that made me break out.”
The Process – “So I tried this one for 7 days. I loved the texture and how light it felt.”
The Result – “After a week, my skin looked like this…”
Even in a 30-second video, a simple story beats a polished product shot.
5. Stay Consistent (Even Without Paid Gigs Yet)
This might be the most important tip of all:
Don’t wait to get hired before creating.
Show up consistently. Post UGC-style content using products you already own. Practice new formats. Try different angles, hooks, editing styles.
🎯 When a brand visits your page or portfolio, they should see someone who’s active, improving, and serious about this work — not someone waiting for permission.
Final Thoughts
The UGC space isn’t oversaturated. It’s under-filtered — and the ones who are strategic, consistent, and professional are the ones who rise.
So the next time you wonder how to stand out, ask yourself:
Am I solving a problem with my content?
Am I showing up like a business owner?
Am I staying active, even before the deals roll in?
✨ If you’re ready to take your UGC seriously and get step-by-step support, templates, and pitching scripts, check out The Ultimate UGC Course. It’s helped hundreds of students (including 40+ creators!) land brand deals without a single follower.
You’ve got this. Keep showing up — and brands will notice.
