What Is UGC In Tech? Tips From a Tech UGC Creator
In this article:
UGC content bridges the gap between where your potential buyers are and where they need to be to say I do. Well...not like that, but you get where I'm going with this.
It's no surprise that the tech industry is quickly catching on to the power of user-created content that educates, informs, and builds trust.
But if you've ever asked yourself, "What is UGC in tech?" you're not alone. It may sound like a no-brainer, but what's important to understand is that there is something very different between UGC content that you didn't ask for and strategic UGC. Both are effective, but there are differences.
If someone creates UGC content after using your product without officially collaborating with you, tags you in their content, and you request permission to share it, that's great and holds a lot of value in the marketing world.
What's also great is strategic UGC content, where you collaborate with creators to create content to help you bridge the gap for potential buyers.
Get ready to take some notes as I'm about to do a deeper dive into the benefits of UGC for tech companies.
Oh, just so we're clear, in case you are new to the world of marketing, UGC stands for User Generated Content.
What is UGC in tech?
Tech UGC is content created by users, customers, or creators that demonstrates or promotes a tech product or service in a natural, authentic way. This is key here, so many brands over-script and it doesn't feel natural which defeats the purpose of UGC.
UGC in tech often comes from independent creators who show how a product works in real-life scenarios. You'll see a lot of tech apps and tools reviewed by creators on YouTube and TikTok.
Quick examples of this are if you see a short-form video on how to sync a smartwatch to your phone, a tutorial on how to use a productivity tool, or even a review comparing two software platforms.
What makes this content valuable is that it's driven by real users, not scripted by the brand. That authenticity makes a difference, especially in tech, where buyers are cautious and tend to do a lot of research before making decisions.
Whether someone creates a review of your product without you asking for it or you hire a creator, this type of content is very valuable for brands. When you hire a UGC creator, if you do provide a script, be open to them making changes to it.
UGC creators often review a lot of tools, and given that they have likely created a lot of videos, they know the type of content that works.
So, what is UGC in tech? It's a type of content that builds trust, explains functionality, and moves the needle for potential users so they get closer to making a purchase. It makes tech feel more approachable.
Why Tech UGC is So Effective
Tech brands sometimes struggle to connect emotionally with their audience. UGC helps close that gap. When a real person explains how your product solved their problem or made their workflow easier, potential buyers pay attention.
These creators act as both users and educators, helping demystify tools that might otherwise seem complicated.
Another reason tech UGC works is that it's often more relatable than brand content. Instead of polished, high-budget promotional videos, tech UGC feels more real and more direct.
This raw, unfiltered style isn't a disadvantage, but it's actually what makes UGC more trustworthy. There's a place for both, and tech UGC content should absolutely have a place in your marketing strategy.
And of course, there's the SEO and visibility factor. Tech UGC, especially in video form, performs well on platforms like TikTok and YouTube. These platforms reward authentic, helpful content that gets engagement. That means more exposure for your product from voices your audience already trusts.
If your brand has a blog, you should always take the transcript of the video and repurpose it into an SEO-optimized blog post for more longevity.
How Tech UGC Supports the Buyer's Journey
One of the most powerful ways to use tech UGC is through video tutorials. These are especially helpful because they can guide your potential customer from their first interaction with your product all the way to becoming a loyal user.
In the awareness stage, people discover new tools or realize they have a problem that needs solving. UGC at this stage could be a first impression video or an unboxing clip that introduces the product in a real-world setting. It might also be a comparison video showing how your app stacks up against a competitor.
As potential buyers move into the consideration stage, they're looking for deeper insights. Tutorials and walkthroughs help here by showing exactly how a feature works or how your tool integrates into a daily routine.
These videos answer the "how" and "why" questions in a straightforward way.
By the decision stage, people are almost ready to buy; they just need that final confirmation. UGC focuses on specific outcomes, like time saved or workflow improvement, and can tip the scale. This is where testimonial-style videos and real-world case studies shine.
Even after someone becomes a customer, UGC still plays a role. Content that explains advanced features, solves common issues, or offers creative use cases can keep people engaged and reduce churn.
Tips from a Tech UGC Creator
Whether you're just starting as a creator or you're a brand thinking about how to integrate UGC into your marketing, here are a few tips that come straight from experience.
Tips for UGC Creators
While I am a fan of creating your own business and working directly with brands, there are ways for creators to gain experience and build their portfolio faster.
Start by using UGC marketplaces or creative companies like Billo, Trend.io, or Insense. They connect creators with brands looking for exactly the kind of helpful, product-focused content tech companies need.
You should also consider using Fiverr or UpWork to find your own UGC clients.
If you're serious about working with tech brands, don't wait for someone to hire you. Build a portfolio by making sample videos of the tools you already use. Record a video tutorial, walk through a setup process, or share your personal review of a platform or tool that you use.
These videos help brands see your skills in action. You do not need a lot of followers to be a UGC creator since brands will be publishing the content to their platforms, and this is not the same as an influencer partnership.
Quick optimization tips:
If you record with your phone, make sure you wipe the lens.
Use a mic if you add voice-over audio.
Use an app like InShot to denoise the video if needed.
Film away from any appliances that often generate low-volume noise, such as kitchen appliances.
Explain one thing at a time, and speak in everyday language. Tech can be intimidating to some audiences, so the simpler, the better.
Tips for Tech Companies
If you're a tech company looking to try UGC, start by deciding whether to work with a UGC agency or an independent Tech UGC Creator. Agencies offer scalability and coordination, but individual creators often bring more flexibility, speed, and niche expertise.
Things to remember:
Remember that it's not about followers here; UGC creators may or may not have a following, but this doesn't matter since you will be publishing the content, not them.
Be crystal clear with your brief. If you want a setup tutorial, say that. If you're looking for a testimonial, spell it out. Clear expectations lead to better content. Do offer flexibility since it's important for the content to feel authentic.
And finally, give creators full access to your product whenever possible. The more they can experience your tool as a user, the more insightful and helpful their content will be.
Will Your Brand Give Tech UGC a Chance?
Working with a tech UGC Creator means tapping into content that actually resonates with potential customers. Whether you're a growing startup or a more established company, incorporating tech UGC into your marketing efforts can be a game-changer.
If you're a creator, tech UGC is a growing space with massive potential. And if you're a brand, now is the time to consider what UGC could look like for your product.
Are you a brand that wants to partner for a UGC video? Get in touch.