Seven Steps To Use UGC In Generating Engagement On Your Emails

Today, I will share with you how you can utilize user-generated content (UGC) in your email marketing campaigns and use it to engage with your email subscribers, build trust, and create a sense of community.

But before we jump into the strategies, what is user-generated content?

UGCs are content your customers create and publish on social media or other channels. This content can come in the form of images, videos, reviews, and testimonials.

Here is an example. The image shows a testimonial from Divine Morado posted on social media after our seminar.

Using testimonials like this in your emails helps build trust and credibility with your subscribers.

With that, here's a step-by-step example to help you effectively leverage UGC:

Identify Relevant UGC Opportunities

Identify the types of user-generated content that align with your brand and resonate with your audience. It could be in the form of reviews, testimonials, photos, videos, social media posts, or stories. Determine which UGC formats will work best for your email campaigns.

Encourage UGC Submissions

Create campaigns and incentives to encourage your audience to generate and submit content. For example, you can run contests, ask for feedback or testimonials, or encourage users to share their experiences with your products or services. Provide clear instructions on how they can submit their content.

See the example below:

Curate and Select UGC

Review the submissions and curate the most compelling and relevant UGC for your email campaigns. Select content that highlights positive experiences, showcases your products or services, or tells authentic stories that resonate with your audience.

Once you come up with which UGC you will use. Contact the customer who submitted the selected UGC to request permission to feature their content in your email campaigns. Ensure that you have the necessary rights to use and display their content. Include clear guidelines on how their content will be used and credited.

Design Engaging Email

Design visually appealing email layouts that prominently feature the selected UGC. Incorporate the UGC in various sections of your email, such as testimonials in the header, customer photos in the body, or social media posts as social proof. Ensure that the UGC is showcased in a visually appealing and attention-grabbing manner.

Personalize and Segment

Segment your email list based on relevant criteria such as purchase history, demographics, or user preferences. Personalize the UGC emails by including the recipient's name, specific product recommendations, or tailored messaging based on their interests. Personalization enhances the connection between the recipient and the UGC.

Craft Engaging Copy

Write compelling copy that complements the featured UGC. Share the stories behind the UGC, highlight the benefits or experiences shared by other customers, and encourage recipients to engage with the content. Craft persuasive subject lines and CTAs that entice recipients to open, read, and interact with the email.

Track and Measure Performance

Implement tracking mechanisms to measure the performance of your UGC email campaigns. Monitor open rates, click-through rates, conversion metrics, and user engagement with the featured UGC. Analyze the data to gain insights into the effectiveness of your UGC strategy and make improvements based on the results.

Once your UGC email campaigns are live, engage with your audience by responding to their feedback, comments, or submissions. Show appreciation for their contributions and encourage further participation. This helps foster a sense of community and strengthens the relationship between your brand and your customers.

By following these steps, you can effectively leverage user-generated content in your email marketing campaigns, creating compelling and engaging experiences for your audience while building trust and authenticity around your brand.

That’s it.

If there’s anything you want to add that I did not mention in this newsletter. Pls, drop them in the comment below. I would love to hear from you.