Boost Your Brand at Every Stage with These UGC Content Types

User-generated content (UGC) allows brands to connect with their audience in a more authentic way than traditional marketing, fostering trust and boosting conversions.

But not all UGC is created equal. Different formats serve different purposes—what works in one scenario may not be as effective in another. For instance, unboxing videos excel at showcasing products, while social media takeovers create real-time engagement.

So, which types of UGC should you leverage, and when?

In this guide, we’ll break down the most impactful UGC formats and how to use them strategically to maximize your brand’s reach and influence.

Reviews & Testimonials: Boost Trust with Authentic Feedback

For brands looking to harness UGC, reviews and testimonials are a natural starting point. They put products in front of potential buyers while establishing credibility—key factors in converting interest into sales.

Platforms like SocialBook Product Launcher streamline the process by offering an on-demand testimonial service. Instead of waiting for organic reviews to trickle in, you can quickly source authentic feedback from creators who align with your brand. This means faster social proof, quicker trust-building, and a direct path to increased conversions.

Why Do Reviews & Testimonials Work?

• Peer-to-peer influence – Creators present products as real users, not salespeople, making their recommendations feel more genuine.
• Real-world validation – Unlike polished ads, UGC reviews highlight actual experiences, helping shoppers visualize using the product themselves.
• Social proof – People trust influencers and fellow consumers more than branded messaging, making testimonials a powerful persuasion tool.

Great Examples in Action

✔ Chris’s Acer Soundbar Review – Instead of a hard sell, he breaks down the product’s performance in a relatable way, making buyers feel confident in their decision.
✔ Sierra’s Wireless Headphones Video – Paired with upbeat music, her genuine enthusiasm for the product makes it instantly appealing.

The Psychology Behind It

When customers see others enjoying a product, they’re more likely to follow suit. Testimonials foster a sense of community—shoppers feel connected to like-minded buyers, reinforcing their purchase decisions.

By leveraging UGC reviews, brands can shorten the buyer’s journey, turning skepticism into trust and curiosity into sales.

Unboxing Videos: Spark Anticipation & Desire

While reviews focus on functionality, unboxing videos thrive on excitement—they’re all about the thrill of discovery. This UGC format taps into viewers’ curiosity, making them ideal for showcasing new launches, limited editions, or innovative packaging.

With SocialBook Product Launcher, you can easily partner with creators to produce high-impact unboxing content—whether you’re selling cutting-edge tech or everyday essentials. Our platform guides creators to highlight what makes your product uniquely unbox-worthy.

Why Unboxing Videos Work?

✅ Triggers Anticipation – The brain treats unboxing like a mini-event, activating the same reward pathways as receiving a gift.
✅ Builds Transparency – Viewers see the product exactly as it arrives—no stock photos, no hidden flaws.
✅ Creates Aspirational Appeal – Even luxury or "someday" purchases feel tangible when viewers experience them vicariously.

Psychology in Action

Take Courtney’s unboxing of the Blooming Bath—a foldable baby tub. Her genuine reaction to its compact design and safety features makes parents feel the convenience, not just hear about it.

Or Chelsea’s rice cooker reveal: She highlights the "set-and-forget" warming function, addressing a real pain point (no more babysitting the stove!).

The Hidden Power of Unboxing

• Dopamine Effect: That little rush of joy keeps viewers engaged and brands top-of-mind.
• Pre-Purchase Confidence: Seeing sizing, textures, and accessories in action reduces post-purchase regret.
• FOMO Factor: Limited-edition packaging? Exclusive colors? Unboxing makes scarcity visible.

Pro Tip: For maximum impact, pair unboxing videos with time-sensitive offers (e.g., "First 100 orders get X free gift!").

Ready to Leverage Unboxing Magic?

SocialBook Product Launcher’s creator network specializes in authentic, hype-worthy unboxing moments tailored to your product. No awkwardness—just pure, shareable excitement.

→ What product should we unbox next?

Social Media Takeovers: Let Influencers Amplify Your Brand

A social media takeover hands your brand’s platform to a trusted creator, offering followers a fresh, authentic perspective. When done right, it’s not just content—it’s an immersive brand experience that drives engagement and expands your reach.

Why Takeovers Work:

• 🚀 Inject authenticity into your feed with unfiltered creator perspectives
• 🤝 Deepen community connections by showcasing real user voices
• 🌐 Tap into new audiences through the influencer’s existing follower base

Keys to a Successful Takeover

1️⃣ Choose the Right Creator

• Partner with someone who genuinely loves your brand and aligns with your values
• Use SocialBook Product Launcher’s advanced filters to find influencers whose audience matches your targets

2️⃣ Build Anticipation

• Tease the takeover across channels to maximize participation
• Let the influencer promote it to their followers too

3️⃣ Embrace the Unpredictable

• The best takeovers feel spontaneous and real—avoid over-scripting
• Encourage behind-the-scenes moments and candid interactions

Strategic Benefits of Takeovers

✅ Cross-Pollinate Audiences

• Reach demographics you struggle to connect with through traditional ads

✅ Generate Viral Potential

• Unexpected pairings (like a conservative brand with a edgy creator) can create buzz

✅ Refresh Your Content Mix

• Get professional-quality content without production costs

✅ Strengthen Community Ties

• Followers feel closer to your brand when they interact with "one of their own"

Pro Tip: For maximum impact, pair takeovers with:

• Limited-time promo codes
• Live Q&A sessions
• Polls or challenges

Real-World Example

Imagine a skincare brand letting a dermatologist influencer take over their Instagram Stories for a day:

• Morning: "My honest first impressions of Brand X’s new serum"
• Afternoon: Live demo of her nighttime routine using their products
• Evening: Answering follower questions about common skin concerns

This builds trust while driving sales—all through an authentic, unforced presentation.

Ready to Hand Over the Keys?

SocialBook Product Launcher makes it easy to:

1. Discover perfect-fit creators
2. Coordinate seamless takeovers
3. Track engagement and conversions

→ Which of your social channels needs a creator’s magic touch?

Behind-the-Scenes Content: Pull Back the Curtain to Build Connection

In an era of polished ads and perfect feeds, raw, authentic glimpses into your brand's world stand out. Behind-the-scenes (BTS) UGC doesn't just showcase your product—it reveals the people, passion, and process behind it, creating powerful emotional connections.

Why BTS Content Resonates

🔹 Builds Trust – 75% of consumers say transparency is their top factor in brand loyalty (Stackla)
🔹 Creates Exclusivity – Makes followers feel like "insiders"
🔹 Differentiates Your Brand – Shows what AI can't replicate: human creativity

Powerful Formats to Try:
✅ Day-in-the-Life Stories – Shadow an employee or maker
✅ Process Time-Lapses – From sketch to final product
✅ Live Q&A Sessions – With your CEO or product team
✅ Event Coverage – Creators capturing your brand's vibe firsthand

Behind-the-Scenes in Action

Example 1: A skincare brand has influencers film:

• Morning: Scientists in the lab mixing formulas
• Afternoon: Packaging team hand-wrapping orders
• Evening: Founder answering "why we don't use X ingredient"

Example 2: A furniture company shows:

• 60-second time-lapse of a table being crafted
• Live stream of designers brainstorming new collections
• Bloopers from photo shoots

Pro Tips for Maximum Impact

1️⃣ Keep It Real – Don't over-polish; authenticity beats production value
2️⃣ Highlight Your People – Introduce team members by name/role
3️⃣ Add Value – Explain why processes matter (e.g., "This hand-stitching adds 5 years to the product's life")
4️⃣ Repurpose Wisely – Turn live streams into Reels, BTS clips into email content

The Psychology Behind the Magic

BTS content taps into:

• The Halo Effect – Seeing your care for details improves perceived quality
• Parasocial Relationships – Followers feel they "know" your team
• Scarcity Principle – Exclusive access feels more valuable

Ready to Show Your Brand's Human Side?

SocialBook Product Launcher helps you:

• Match with creators who can capture your brand's essence
• Storyboard compelling BTS narratives
• Amplify reach through authentic co-created content

→ What's one unique process in your company that would fascinate customers?

The Ultimate UGC Guide for Every Customer Journey Stage

Different types of user-generated content shine at various stages of the buyer's journey. Here's how to strategically deploy UGC to attract, convince, and retain customers—with real examples of what works best.

1. Awareness Stage: Spark Interest

(Goal: Introduce your brand to new audiences)

Best UGC Types:

• 🎁 Unboxing Videos – Create "wow" moments that showcase your product's first impression
• 📱 Social Media Takeovers – Leverage influencers' followers to expand your reach

Example:

Billo creator Deidre demos a cordless hair removal device, highlighting its ergonomic design—perfect for catching attention during the discovery phase.

Why It Works:

• Triggers curiosity through sensory experiences
• Feels more organic than traditional ads

2. Consideration Stage: Build Trust

(Goal: Help potential buyers evaluate your product)

Best UGC Types:

• 🎓 Tutorials & How-Tos – Prove your product's ease of use
• ⭐ Reviews & Testimonials – Provide peer validation

Example:

Ana's shampoo tutorial shows immediate shine results, while Laura's makeup review addresses specific concerns (like caking) for her over-40 audience.

Pro Tip:

• Cluster similar testimonials to address specific objections (e.g., "Does this work for curly hair?")

3. Decision & Retention Stage: Seal the Deal & Keep Them Coming Back

(Goal: Convert hesitant buyers and foster loyalty)

Best UGC Types:

• 🎬 Behind-the-Scenenes Content – Deepen emotional connection
• 🔄 Advanced Tutorials – Teach new use cases to existing customers
• 💬 Post-Purchase Testimonials – Show long-term satisfaction

Power Play:

A skincare brand shares:

• Day 1: Factory tour showing quality control
• Day 30: Customer videos celebrating "1 month glow-up" results

Why It Works:

• BTS content justifies premium pricing by revealing craftsmanship
• Success-story testimonials reduce post-purchase doubt

UGC Optimization Checklist

How SocialBook Product Launcher Supercharges Your UGC Strategy?

• Awareness: Find creators with viral potential
• Consideration: Source authentic reviewers in your niche
• Retention: Identify loyal customers willing to share success stories

→ Which stage does your brand need to strengthen most?