Filling a social media calendar can sometimes feel like an obstacle course. Between the need to post every day and the challenge of coming up with fresh content, it's easy to run out of inspiration.
UGC (User Generated Content) content is now essential to any effective marketing strategy. In fact, 79% of people say that user-generated content greatly influences their buying decisions. These authentic videos, made by real users, captivate audiences, drive engagement, and showcase products like never before.
In this article, YOO reveals 10 UGC content ideas concrete things to incorporate into your schedule right now to save precious time and boost your commitment.
1. Unboxing
It's an unbeatable format. Unboxing attracts curiosity. This format works very well on social media because it's a vicarious shopping experience. Viewers discover the packaging, texture, and first impressions at the same time as the creator. However, forget overly scripted videos. We want to hear the sound of tissue paper and see spontaneous reactions to the product's color.
2. Crash Test
Here, we don't give anything away for free. The creator tests the product for the first time and gives their honest opinion. In 2026, consumers demand honesty. Gone are the days of overly polished content where advertising is obvious from a mile away. Today, what works are sincere opinions. This is a very useful format for your brand because it allows you to demonstrate the effectiveness and reliability of your products through proof.
3. The “Before/After”
This is the ultimate format for the beauty, cleaning, decoration, and fitness sectors. To use this format effectively, the result must appear quickly (within the first 3 seconds of your hook to avoid scrolling). In addition, the lighting must be identical in both shots so as not to skew the result. It is visual proof that immediately reassures viewers of the solution's effectiveness.
4. Get Ready With Me
How does your product fit into real life? The “Routine” or “GRWM” (Get Ready With Me) format allows you to place a product in an everyday context. This shows viewers that you actually use this product in your routine and, as a result, builds trust.
5. Tutorial "Hack"
We all love learning something new. Here, the goal is educational. The creator shows an indirect, optimized, or little-known way to use your product. This type of content works very well because users can easily save it, which increases your engagement rate.
6. Storytime
People don't buy products, they buy emotions. “Storytime” involves telling a personal anecdote related to a problem that the product has solved. You can also tell your storytime while using the products in your Get Ready With Me for even greater impact. This format creates the strongest emotional connection and attachment to the brand.
7. Challenge
Offering challenges is a dynamic way to capture users' interest. These videos spark curiosity and excitement, thereby stimulating interaction. Today, on TikTok, the term “trend” is preferred, but the concept is the same. Offer a fun challenge. It could be a dance, a creative way to use the product, or a performance challenge (e.g., “7 days to tidy up my house with this method”).
8. Vlog
Unlike short, fast-paced videos, vlogs create a sense of closeness. The creator takes their community along for a day or an event, and your product makes a natural appearance. This UGC format works really well because it doesn’t sell—it embodies. The product is seen “living” in different contexts (on the subway, at the office, on vacation). It’s the perfect format to humanize the brand and build emotional connection.
9. Product comparison
Be careful, this is a slippery slope, but very effective. It involves comparing your product to an alternative. Highlight your USPs (Unique Selling Propositions). “This product costs the same as X, but look at how much more you get.” This is rational content that helps with the final purchase decision.
10. POV (Point Of View)
POV stands for “point of view.” It allows viewers to discover the product through the eyes of someone who uses it. This type of UGC content is ideal for mobile apps, video games, or experiences (travel, restaurants). And here's a little tip: filmed at eye or hand level, this format is ultra-immersive.
Ready to fill up your calendar?
For over 8 years, YOO has been helping brands set up successful UGC campaigns. The platform brings together over 100,000 creators, automated application management, content collection, three-year rights transfer, and access to statistics via the Instagram API. Everything is centralized to simplify and secure UGC campaigns in France. You too can launch large-scale UGC campaigns with YOO and transform your sales highlights into real levers for visibility and engagement.