How to create a great UGC video

How to Actually Create a Good UGC Video

UGC videos (User-Generated Content) have quickly become one of the most effective ways to build trust, connection, and sales on social media. Consumers are tired of traditional ads that feel overly polished and staged. Instead, they want content that feels human, natural, and relatable. And that’s exactly where UGC stands out.

When a creator—whether it’s a customer or a content creator—shares their experience in a genuine and trustworthy way, the result is a completely different level of credibility than when it comes directly from a brand. That’s why UGC videos have become a gamechanger for companies trying to cut through the noise and produce content people actually care about. But there’s a world of difference between a random video and a good UGC video that’s structured, intentional, and built to convert.

Why UGC Videos Work

What makes UGC powerful is that it feels authentic and unfiltered. When viewers see a real person talk about a product, it feels like a true recommendation—not a scripted ad from a marketing team. And that authenticity is why UGC typically has higher click-through rates, stronger engagement, and greater trust than brand-produced content.

People simply trust people more than they trust companies. It’s the same psychological principle that makes us ask friends or family for recommendations before buying something. A well-made UGC video mirrors that experience online: it feels like a friend sharing an honest opinion. That creates attention, connection, and ultimately—conversions.

1. Start With a Strong Hook

The first 3 seconds are everything. If you don’t grab attention, the viewer scrolls.

Great hooks include:

• A question: “Did you know 8 out of 10 people make this mistake?”

• A reaction: Creator shows the product and reacts.

• A problem: “I struggled with [problem] for years—until I found this.”

2. Tell a Personal Story

A great UGC video should feel like a recommendation from a friend. The creator should share:

• What problem they had

• How the product helped

• Why they recommend it

3. Show the Product in Action

Talking isn’t enough—viewers need to see it working.

Include things like:

• Unboxing

• Before/after

• Step-by-step demo

• Everyday b-roll

4. Use Social Proof

People trust people. Add social proof such as:

• “I’ve already recommended it to my friends”

• “Here’s the difference after 2 weeks”

• “Over 5,000 people use this already”

5. End With a Clear CTA

Every good video needs a call-to-action:

• “Link in bio”

• “Get it here—you won’t regret it”

• “Swipe to learn more”

6. Use a Simple Script Structure

A good script is half the battle—but it must feel natural, not like a commercial.

A simple UGC script:

1. Hook

2. Problem

3. Solution

4. Proof

5. CTA

7. Create a Strong Brief for the Creator

If you work with creators, your brief matters.

Include:

• Guidelines (tone, length, vibe)

• Do’s & Don’ts (be authentic, show product, avoid sounding like an ad)

• Purpose (what message and what action you want viewers to take)

8. Authenticity Beats Perfection

Top-performing UGC is rarely the most polished. “Raw UGC” often performs better because it feels real. Natural light, handheld footage, and personal energy often convert far better than studio setups.

9. Test and Optimize

One video isn’t enough. Test:

• Hooks

• Angles

• Lengths

Repurpose your content across:

• TikTok & Reels

• Meta ads

• Landing pages

• Email marketing

Conclusion

A good UGC video isn’t about expensive production—it’s about authenticity, structure, and a clear message. Combine a strong hook, personal story, product usage, and a clear CTA, and you have a video built to sell.