Want to become a creator that brands keep rehiring? The secret isn’t just good lighting or editing—it’s understanding how your videos perform once they leave your phone and go into paid ads.
If you can show that your UGC doesn’t just look good but also converts, you immediately become 10x more valuable.
Let’s talk about how to approach UGC creation like a media buyer—someone who understands why content works, not just how to film it.
1. Start With a Hook That Stops the Scroll
The first 3 seconds of your video matter more than anything. Media buyers are looking for content that hooks quickly and keeps users engaged through the first 30 seconds.
High-performing hook types:
A bold claim: “This cured my acne in 3 days.”
A question: “Still breaking out even after switching products?”
A pain point: “I was so tired of wasting money on stuff that didn’t work…”
Why it works: Paid ads only pay off if people watch. If your video loses attention early, brands won’t get ROI.
2. Include One Strong CTA (Call to Action)
Even if it’s “organic-style,” UGC used in ads still needs a clear direction. Media buyers hate vague endings. Tell the viewer what to do next.
Examples of strong CTAs:
“Click the link to try it.”
“Use my code to get 20% off.”
“Don’t wait—this sells out fast.”
Why it works: CTAs guide action. Without one, viewers may like your video—but not convert. That’s a problem for the brand.
3. Focus on One Clear Message Per Video
Too many creators try to say everything in one video: benefits, ingredients, story, experience, packaging, etc. This dilutes the message.
Instead: Pick one clear takeaway:
Texture-focused demo
How it solves one problem
Before & after transformation
Why it works: Media buyers run tests on single messages. Your job is to deliver a clean, focused message that’s easy to test.
4. Film Hook Variations (and Offer Them)
If a brand asks for 1 video, offer 2–3 hook options with the same body and CTA. This is called a hook variation—and it’s gold for paid ads.
What to say:
“Let me know if you'd like a couple of hook options to test—happy to include them!”
Why it works: One great UGC video can turn into 3-4 testable versions. This makes you way more valuable and shows you understand performance-based content.
5. Use Social Proof or Real Language
Ads that sound like ads don’t perform. Media buyers often look for content that feels “native” to the platform—real people, real stories, real results.
Examples:
“I didn’t expect much, but this actually worked.”
“Okay… this is better than I thought.”
“I’ve tried so many and this is the only one that…”
Why it works: UGC converts best when it feels honest. You’re not selling—you’re sharing an experience. Keep your tone casual and unscripted.
Final Thoughts
When you think like a media buyer, you stop just being a “creator” and start becoming a partner in results. And that’s what brands are really looking for.
Want to get inside the mind of the people actually running the ads?
Inside The Ultimate UGC Course, I include:
Scripts written with ad strategy in mind
A hook-building formula
CTA frameworks
And how to position yourself as a high-converting creator (even if you’re new)
Check out the course and start creating content brands want and need.
You’ve got the creative side—now let’s add the conversion side too.
