Consumer habits are changing, but one constant remains: people trust other people. This is true in both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) markets. Research supports this idea; a report reveals that 88.5% of consumers trust genuine customer reviews more than influencer endorsements. While influencer marketing can be effective, nothing compares to authentic feedback from real customers.
Nearly 98% of online shoppers read reviews before making a purchase, and about 66% are highly likely to buy after reading a positive review. This highlights the importance of incorporating user-generated content (UGC) into your marketing strategy.
Your customer base is full of potential brand advocates. It’s essential to capture their satisfaction and share their experiences with a wider audience. Encouraging loyal customers to share their stories is easier than ever, especially since most Millennials and Gen Z consumers are comfortable with technology and frequently leave product reviews. Simply asking for a review or a social media shoutout can yield great results, especially if you offer an incentive in return.
User-generated content (UGC) is effective across all social media platforms. Here’s how you can leverage it:
Facebook: This platform is perfect for sharing customer stories in video format or incorporating UGC into your ads.
Instagram: As a visual platform, Instagram is ideal for showcasing UGC that highlights your products.
Twitter: While it may seem limited, visuals speak volumes. Use UGC product photos or organize a Twitter chat to demonstrate your product in real-time.
Snapchat/TikTok: These platforms are popular for sharing customer experiences, so actively search for UGC (just remember to get permission first).
LinkedIn: Although it`s a professional network, people still appreciate great UGC. Instead of customer-generated content, consider having your employees create and share their experiences.
CelebFluence can assist you in finding genuine users and influencers in your niche who can become brand advocates. These influencers can use your products and provide honest reviews and feedback, helping your target audience learn more about your brand and offerings.