5 Mistakes New UGC Creators Make (and How to Avoid Them)

The journey into user-generated content (UGC) is full of excitement. You’ve seen creators land dream brand deals, earn income on their terms, and grow their influence. It’s no wonder you’re ready to dive in. But here’s the truth: even the most talented beginners can make simple mistakes that slow their progress.

The good news? These missteps are entirely avoidable. By learning what to look out for, you can set yourself apart from the start and position yourself for long-term success. In this guide, we’ll cover the five most common mistakes new UGC creators make—and actionable steps to avoid them.

Ignoring Your Brand Identity

The Mistake

Many new creators think they have to appeal to every brand to land deals. They churn out generic content, hoping something sticks, but in doing so, they lose what makes them unique.

Why It Matters

Brands aren’t looking for creators who can do it all—they’re looking for creators with a defined niche, consistent voice, and clear values. A strong brand identity makes you memorable and establishes trust, helping you stand out in a crowded market.

How to Avoid It

• Define Your Niche: Think about what excites you. Are you passionate about fitness, sustainable living, or tech gadgets? Pick a niche that aligns with your interests and feels authentic.
• Craft a Brand Identity: Use tools like our Brand Identity Blueprint Toolkit (link to toolkit) to clarify your values, ideal audience, and unique strengths.
• Stay Consistent: Once you’ve identified your niche, stick to it. Post content that reflects your brand identity across platforms to reinforce your expertise.

Pro Tip: A niche doesn’t limit you; it focuses your efforts. Brands are more likely to notice creators who excel in a specific area than generalists trying to do it all.

Underpricing Your Work

The Mistake

It’s tempting to price your work low—or even offer to work for free—when you’re just starting out. Many new creators think this will make them more attractive to brands, but it can actually harm their growth and the industry.

Why It Matters

Your rates don’t just reflect your content; they signal your value as a professional. Underpricing not only devalues your time and expertise but can set a precedent for future deals. Brands may undervalue your work if you don’t advocate for fair compensation.

How to Avoid It

• Research Rates: Platforms like Influencer Marketing Hub offer calculators to estimate fair rates for UGC creators.
• Add-On Value: Charge extra for usage rights, exclusivity, and expedited timelines. These add-ons can significantly boost your income.
• Start Smart: If you’re just beginning, it’s okay to accept lower rates or free projects to build your portfolio—but always transition to fair pricing as you grow.

Pro Tip: Use our Pricing & Negotiation Tactics Toolkit to confidently calculate rates and navigate negotiations (link to toolkit).

Neglecting to Build a Portfolio

The Mistake

Reaching out to brands without examples of your work is like applying for a job without a resume. Brands need to see what you can do before they invest in a partnership.

Why It Matters

Your portfolio showcases your creativity, style, and ability to deliver high-quality content. Without one, you risk being overlooked, even if you have the skills to succeed.

How to Avoid It

• Start with What You Have: Use products around your home to create 5-8 pieces of UGC that highlight your storytelling skills.
• Focus on Quality: Pay attention to lighting, composition, and editing to ensure your content looks polished and professional.
• Present It Professionally: Showcase your portfolio in a media kit using tools like our free Media Kit Template (link to template).

Pro Tip: Include captions or short blurbs in your portfolio to explain the purpose of each piece, such as the audience it targeted or the problem it solved.

Sending Generic Pitches

The Mistake

If you’re copy-pasting the same email to dozens of brands, you’re missing the mark. Brands can tell when a pitch is generic, and it shows a lack of effort and genuine interest.

Why It Matters

A personalized pitch demonstrates that you’ve done your research and care about collaborating with the brand. This attention to detail can make the difference between landing a deal and being ignored.

How to Avoid It

• Research the Brand: Look at their values, target audience, and recent campaigns to tailor your pitch.
• Use a Proven Framework: Follow a structure that includes a compelling introduction, a clear value proposition, and a strong call to action.
• Keep It Short and Sweet: Respect the recipient’s time by being concise while still showcasing your personality and enthusiasm.

Pro Tip: Use the Pitching & Outreach Mastery Toolkit for customizable templates that take the guesswork out of pitching (link to toolkit).

Failing to Follow Up

The Mistake

Many creators assume that no response means no interest. However, in the busy world of marketing, emails often get buried, and brands may need a gentle reminder to respond.

Why It Matters

Following up shows initiative and professionalism. It keeps the conversation alive and demonstrates that you’re serious about the opportunity.

How to Avoid It

• Set Reminders: Follow up 5-7 business days after your initial email. If there’s still no response, send a second follow-up a week later.
• Track Your Outreach: Use a CRM tool like a Notion Brand Partnership Template to organize your pitches and follow-ups.
• Be Polite: Keep your tone professional and avoid sounding impatient. Offer additional value in your follow-up, like an updated portfolio or new idea.

Pro Tip: Persistence pays off, but don’t overdo it. A maximum of two follow-ups is usually enough to gauge interest.

Avoiding these common mistakes will set you on the path to success as a UGC creator. By defining your brand identity, valuing your work, and approaching brands professionally, you’ll stand out and build meaningful partnerships.

Ready to Elevate Your UGC Career?

Take the next step with our free Media Kit Template to create a polished portfolio that impresses brands. For deeper insights and tools, explore the Pitching & Outreach Mastery Toolkit and start landing deals with confidence.

The UGC world is waiting for your creativity—step in and shine!