Some of the most engaging content you will post may not be created by you or your team: User-generated content (UGC) is content such as photos, videos, and graphics that are created by your audience! UGC is not only a fun and authentic way to interact with your followers, it has proven to be beneficial in obtaining audience insights, extending your reach, and finding unique content. Plus, it’s free!
Here are three ways that you can be creative in encouraging user-generated content:
- Testimonials and Reviews: If you have individuals who are happy and enthusiastic with the work your department is doing, share that positivity with everyone else! Take screenshots of positive social media comments or Google Reviews (if applicable), or write down reviews from alumni, team members, or customers. You can even create a post to invite your audience to share in the comments or to directly message your account their experiences with your organization. You can then use those testimonials in future content.
- Challenges or Giveaways: Invite your audience to participate in a giveaway or challenge related to your organization! Prizes can be a great incentive for encouraging people to participate. Depending on the purpose and nature of the challenge, a prize may not even be necessary if the chance to be spotlighted or participation itself is the reward. This is a great way to increase unity among your followers and a fun way to see their creativity.
- Q&A: How well does your audience know you? Is there anything they would like to know? Give them the reigns and let them ask you! Many social media platforms have extra features that make setting up a Q&A session easy, but even posting a simple image with the invitation can invite good questions that your account can answer in the moment or in the future.
Keep in mind that the content your audience creates must also be compliant with BYU-Idaho’s social media guidelines in order to be shared on your account. With that in mind, have fun and be creative in encouraging UGC!
