How to Stand Out to Brands: Tips to Beat the Competition

In a sea of creators vying for attention, how do you make sure brands notice you? The UGC landscape is more competitive than ever, with creators across every niche pitching for the same collaborations. But the good news is that standing out doesn’t require a massive following—it’s about strategy, authenticity, and presenting your unique value.

This guide will equip you with actionable tips to shine, attract brand partnerships, and secure meaningful collaborations that align with your goals.

Define Your Unique Value Proposition (UVP)

What Makes You Different?

Your UVP is the answer to the question every brand asks: “Why should we choose you?” Identifying your niche, strengths, and values is key to standing out. Maybe you’re a creator specializing in eco-friendly products or tech hacks that simplify everyday life. Whatever it is, lean into your unique qualities.

Example: If you’re a fitness creator, your UVP could be: “Helping busy moms find simple, effective workouts they can do in 15 minutes or less.”

Action Step: Write a one-sentence UVP that clearly communicates what makes you unique and why brands should work with you.

Build a Strong Personal Brand

Consistency Across Platforms

Your brand isn’t just about what you create—it’s how you present yourself. Ensure cohesive visuals, tone, and messaging across all platforms. A polished media kit and portfolio further reinforce your professionalism.

Let Your Personality Shine

Beyond aesthetics, your authenticity is your biggest asset. Share behind-the-scenes content, personal stories, and genuine interactions with your audience. Brands love creators who feel relatable.

Action Step: Audit your social profiles. Do they reflect your niche, personality, and professionalism? If not, tweak them to align with your personal brand.

Create High-Quality, Engaging Content

Quality Over Quantity

Brands aren’t just looking for creators who churn out content—they’re looking for impactful storytelling and polished visuals. Focus on creating fewer but higher-quality pieces that resonate with your audience.

Diverse Formats

Showcase versatility by experimenting with different content types, like short-form videos, carousel posts, and tutorials. This demonstrates your ability to adapt to a brand’s needs.

Action Step: Build a portfolio of 5-8 standout pieces tailored to your niche, using products or tools you already have at home.

Showcase Your Metrics and Success Stories

Highlight Engagement Over Follower Count

Brands care more about trust and influence than sheer numbers. Metrics like save rates, comments, and click-through rates often speak louder than follower counts.

Case Studies

Even small successes can showcase your impact. Document your wins, such as driving 500 clicks for a local brand or achieving a 15% save rate on a campaign.

Action Step: Add a section in your media kit for metrics, testimonials, and case studies. This provides concrete evidence of your value.

Network and Engage Proactively

Engage with Brands Before Pitching

Start building relationships before you send your first pitch. Comment on their posts, share their content, and tag them in relevant posts to get on their radar.

Leverage LinkedIn

LinkedIn is a treasure trove for connecting with decision-makers like marketing managers and brand directors. Use it to build genuine relationships, not just to pitch.

Action Step: Set a weekly goal to engage with 3-5 brands on social media.

Perfect Your Outreach Strategy

Tailor Your Pitches

A one-size-fits-all pitch won’t cut it. Personalize your outreach by referencing the brand’s recent campaigns, products, or values.

Show What You Offer

Highlight your UVP, past results, and creative ideas for collaboration in every pitch. This shows the brand you’ve done your homework and are serious about adding value.

Action Step: Write and test 3 customized pitch emails using proven templates like those in the Outreach Email Templates Toolkit.

Focus on Building Relationships, Not Just Deals

Beyond the Transaction

The best brand collaborations are built on relationships, not just deliverables. Stay in touch after campaigns end by sharing post-campaign results, offering future ideas, or simply thanking the brand for the opportunity.

Action Step: Create a follow-up email template to send after each partnership. This small step can leave a lasting impression and open the door to future opportunities.

Standing out to brands requires more than great content—it’s about clarity, strategy, and relationships. By defining your UVP, creating high-quality work, and building genuine connections, you can elevate your presence and secure the brand deals you deserve.

Ready to shine brighter than the competition? Download our free Media Kit Template to start showcasing your value today. For a deeper dive, explore the UGC Starter Kit Course and learn how to build a standout brand that attracts top-tier partnerships.