Cold Email

How to Secure UGC Deals Through Cold Email: A Step-by-Step Guide

author image mailead
Marina Cina
May 30, 2024
7
min read

Research and Identify Potential Partners

To get User-Generated Content (UGC) deals, start by researching and finding possible partners. This step is crucial for UGC creators looking to establish meaningful collaborations with brands. Here's how to get started.

Define Your Niche

As a UGC creator, the first step is to define your niche. This involves understanding your strengths and the type of content you excel in creating. Are you great at crafting visually appealing Instagram posts, engaging TikTok videos, or perhaps you specialize in in-depth product reviews? Defining your niche helps you target the right brands that align with your content style and audience.

Consider what makes your content unique and why brands would want to collaborate with you. For example, if your Instagram feed showcases stunning travel photography, you should target travel-related brands. Similarly, if you create engaging TikTok content featuring tech gadgets, tech companies should be your primary focus.

Research Brands

Once you have a clear understanding of your niche, the next step is to research brands that align with your content. Start by making a list of brands that are active on platforms like Instagram and TikTok, as these platforms heavily rely on UGC for authentic engagement.

—> Use Social Media Platforms

Begin your research on social media platforms. Look for brands that are actively engaging with their audience through UGC. Instagram and TikTok are particularly useful for this purpose. Follow hashtags related to your niche to discover brands that are popular among your target audience.

—> Analyze Brand Engagement

Pay close attention to how brands engage with their audience. Brands that frequently share or repost UGC are ideal targets. Analyze their recent campaigns to understand the type of content they prefer. For instance, if a brand often shares customer reviews or user-generated videos, they are likely open to UGC collaborations.

—> Use LinkedIn and Company Websites

LinkedIn can be a valuable tool for finding key contacts within a company. Look for marketing managers, social media managers, or influencer marketing coordinators who might be responsible for UGC collaborations. Visit company websites to gather additional contact information and understand more about their marketing strategies and values.

—> Leverage Influencer Marketing Platforms

Influencer marketing platforms like AspireIQ, Upfluence, or Tribe can also help identify brands seeking UGC creators. These platforms often have databases of brands actively looking for collaborations, making it easier to find potential partners.

Create a Target List

After conducting your research, create a list of potential brands to contact. Include key details such as the brand’s name, contact person, email address, social media profiles, and notes on their recent UGC campaigns. This organized approach ensures you have all the necessary information at your fingertips when crafting your email pitches.

Set Clear Objectives

Define what you want to achieve with your email pitch. Whether it's a single collaboration or a long-term partnership, make your objectives clear. Propose specific ideas that align with the brand’s marketing goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any deal but are genuinely interested in creating valuable content that benefits both parties.

Craft a Compelling Subject Line

The subject line of your cold email is the first impression you make on a potential partner. As a UGC creator, crafting a compelling subject line is crucial to ensure that your cold email stands out in a crowded inbox and grabs the recipient's attention. A well-crafted subject line can significantly increase your open rates and set the stage for a successful pitch. Here’s how to create subject lines that resonate with brands and get your emails noticed.

Importance of a Compelling Subject Line

In the digital age, where brands receive countless emails daily, your subject line must be concise, intriguing, and relevant. It’s the gateway to your email content and often determines whether your email will be opened or ignored. For UGC creators, a compelling subject line can highlight the potential value of your collaboration and entice the recipient to learn more.

Use Keywords Strategically

Incorporating relevant keywords into your subject line can improve its effectiveness. Keywords such as "UGC creator", "UGC", "Instagram", "TikTok", "Brands", "Email Pitch", and "Cold Email" makes the purpose of your email clear immediately.

For example:

  • "Boost Your Brand’s Engagement with UGC from Top TikTok Creator"
  • "Exclusive Offer: High-Quality Instagram UGC for Your Next Campaign"

—>These subject lines immediately communicate the value proposition and the platform you specialize in, making them more appealing to brands looking for UGC.

Keep It Short and Sweet

A subject line should be brief yet informative. Aim for 6-10 words to ensure it’s visible on both desktop and mobile devices. Short subject lines are easier to read quickly and are more likely to capture attention.

For instance:

  • "Transform Your Instagram with Stunning UGC"
  • "Captivate Your Audience with Genuine TikTok Content"

—>These examples are concise and to the point, effectively summarizing the email's content without overwhelming the recipient.

Create a Sense of Urgency

Creating a sense of urgency or exclusivity can encourage recipients to open your email immediately. Phrases like "limited availability" or "unique deal" can be effective.

For example:

  • "Unique Deal: Premium UGC for Your Brand"
  • "Exclusive UGC Partnership Opportunity!"

—>These subject lines suggest that the offer is time-sensitive or special, prompting the recipient to prioritize your email.

Highlight the Benefit

Focusing on the benefit to the recipient can make your subject line more compelling. Highlight how your UGC can help the brand achieve its goals, whether it’s increasing engagement, boosting sales, or enhancing brand authenticity.

For instance:

  • "Boost Your Brand’s Reach with Engaging UGC"
  • "Drive Sales with Authentic Instagram Content"

—>These subject lines clearly state the benefit, making it clear why the recipient should be interested in your email.

Personalization

While personalization in the email body is crucial, hinting at personalization in the subject line can also be effective. Mentioning the brand or referencing a specific campaign can make your subject line more relevant.

For example:

  • "UGC Ideas for [Brand Name]’s Summer Campaign"
  • "Elevate [Brand Name]’s Instagram Strategy with UGC"

—>These subject lines show that your email is tailored to the recipient, increasing the likelihood of it being opened.

Test Different Variations

Testing different subject line variations can help you determine what works best for your audience. A/B testing involves sending two different subject lines to a small segment of your list and comparing the open rates. This can provide valuable insights into which type of subject line resonates most with your target audience.

For example, you could test:

  • "Engage More Followers with UGC on Instagram"
  • "Boost Your TikTok Presence with Custom UGC"

—>By analyzing the results, you can refine your approach and choose the most effective subject lines for future emails.

Examples of Effective Subject Lines

To inspire your email campaigns, here are some examples of effective subject lines for UGC creators:

  • "Collaborate with a Top UGC Creator to Enhance Your Brand"
  • "Ready to Boost Your Instagram Engagement with Authentic UGC?"
  • "Let’s Create Viral TikTok Content Together!"
  • "Premium UGC Services to Elevate Your Brand’s Presence"

—>These subject lines incorporate key elements such as relevance, benefit, and urgency, making them more likely to capture attention and encourage email opens.

Personalize the Email

how to write cold email ugc

Personalizing your cold email is a critical step in securing UGC deals with brands. A personalized email not only captures the recipient's attention but also demonstrates your genuine interest in their brand. As a UGC creator, showing that you have done your homework can significantly increase your chances of landing a partnership. Here’s how to effectively personalize your email to make a lasting impression.

Address the Recipient by Name

The simplest way to personalize your email is by addressing the recipient by their name. This small touch can make a big difference, as it shows that you’re not sending out a generic email blast. Always take the time to find the correct contact person within the brand, whether it’s the marketing manager, social media manager, or influencer coordinator.

For example:

  • "Hi [Recipient’s Name],"

—>Using the recipient’s name immediately establishes a personal connection and makes your email feel more direct and intentional.

Mention Specific Details About the Brand

To further personalize your email, mention specific details about the brand that you admire or find relevant. This could be recent campaigns, products, or initiatives that the brand has launched. Highlighting these details shows that you have taken the time to understand the brand’s values and objectives.

For example:

  • "I was impressed by your recent Instagram campaign promoting the new [Product Name]. The way you engaged with your audience through user-generated content was particularly inspiring."

—>By referencing specific campaigns or products, you demonstrate your familiarity with the brand’s work and your enthusiasm for a potential collaboration.

Highlight Shared Interests or Values

If you share similar interests or values with the brand, make sure to mention them. This could be a mutual focus on sustainability, a passion for innovative technology, or a commitment to community engagement.

For example:

  • "As a UGC creator who is passionate about sustainability, I truly appreciate [Brand Name]’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. I believe that my content, which also emphasizes sustainable living, would resonate well with your audience."

—>Highlighting shared interests or values can make your pitch more compelling and show that your collaboration would be a natural fit.

Reference Relevant Platforms

Mentioning the specific platforms you specialize in, such as Instagram or TikTok, can also personalize your email. Brands have different strategies for different platforms, and showing that you understand this can enhance your credibility.

For example:

  • "I noticed that [Brand Name] has a strong presence on Instagram. My expertise in creating engaging Instagram UGC could help amplify your reach and engagement."

—>Pointing out shared interests or values can make your pitch stronger and show that working together makes sense.

Tailor Your Offer to the Brand’s Needs

Customizing your offer based on the brand’s needs and goals is another powerful way to personalize your email. This involves proposing specific types of content or campaigns that align with what the brand is already doing or aims to achieve.

For example:

  • "I saw that your TikTok account has been focusing on short, impactful videos pointing out product features. I specialize in creating TikTok content that not only showcases products but also drives user engagement through creative storytelling."

—>By tailoring your offer, you show that you have thought about how your skills and content can directly benefit the brand.

Use Engaging Language

The tone and language of your email should reflect the brand’s style. If the brand uses a casual and friendly tone on social media, mirror this in your email. Conversely, if the brand’s communication style is more formal, adjust your tone accordingly.

For example:

  • Casual Tone: "Hey [Recipient’s Name], I love what you guys are doing with [Brand Name] on Instagram! Let’s team up and create some awesome UGC together."
  • Formal Tone: "Dear [Recipient’s Name], I am impressed by [Brand Name]’s strategic use of user-generated content on Instagram. I would be honored to discuss a potential collaboration."

—>Adapting your language to match the brand’s tone makes your email feel more personalized and in sync with the brand’s identity.

Include Visual Elements

If appropriate, include visual elements in your email to make it more engaging. This could be a small portfolio of your best UGC work, a relevant infographic, or a personalized video message. Visual content can capture attention quickly and provide a tangible example of what you offer.

For example:

  • "I’ve attached a brief portfolio showcasing some of my recent Instagram UGC projects. I believe these examples illustrate how I can help [Brand Name] create impactful and engaging content."

—>Including visuals not only personalizes your email but also provides immediate value, making it easier for the brand to envision a collaboration with you.

Personalize the Email

Personalizing your cold email is a critical step in securing UGC deals with brands. A personalized email not only captures the recipient's attention but also demonstrates your genuine interest in their brand. As a UGC creator, showing that you have done your homework can significantly increase your chances of landing a partnership. Here’s how to effectively personalize your email to make a lasting impression.

Address the Recipient by Name

The simplest way to personalize your email is by addressing the recipient by their name. This small touch can make a big difference, as it shows that you’re not sending out a generic email blast. Always take the time to find the correct contact person within the brand, whether it’s the marketing manager, social media manager, or influencer coordinator.

For example:

  • "Hi [Recipient’s Name],"

—>Using the recipient’s name immediately establishes a personal connection and makes your email feel more direct and intentional.

Mention Specific Details About the Brand

To further personalize your email, mention specific details about the brand that you admire or find relevant. This could be recent campaigns, products, or initiatives that the brand has launched. Highlighting these details shows that you have taken the time to understand the brand’s values and objectives.

For example:

  • "Your recent Instagram campaign promoting the new [Product Name] really impressed me. The way you engaged with your audience through user-generated content was particularly inspiring."

—>By referencing specific campaigns or products, you demonstrate your familiarity with the brand’s work and your enthusiasm for a potential collaboration.

Highlight Shared Interests or Values

Finding common ground can strengthen your pitch. If you share similar interests or values with the brand, make sure to mention them. This could be a mutual focus on sustainability, a passion for innovative technology, or a commitment to community engagement.

For example:

  • "As a UGC creator who is passionate about sustainability, I truly appreciate [Brand Name]’s commitment to eco-friendly practices. I believe that my content, which also emphasizes sustainable living, would resonate well with your audience."

—>Highlighting shared interests or values can make your pitch more compelling and show that your collaboration would be a natural fit.

Reference Relevant Platforms

Mentioning the specific platforms you specialize in, such as Instagram or TikTok, can also personalize your email. Brands have different strategies for different platforms, and showing that you understand this can enhance your credibility.

For example:

  • "I noticed that [Brand Name] has a strong presence on Instagram. My expertise in creating engaging Instagram UGC could help amplify your reach and engagement."

—>Referencing the relevant platforms not only personalizes your email but also aligns your proposal with the brand’s current social media strategy.

Tailor Your Offer to the Brand’s Needs

Customizing your offer based on the brand’s needs and goals is another powerful way to personalize your email. This involves proposing specific types of content or campaigns that align with what the brand is already doing or aims to achieve.

For example:

  • "I saw that your TikTok account has been focusing on short, impactful videos highlighting product features. I specialize in creating TikTok content that not only showcases products but also drives user engagement through creative storytelling."

—>By tailoring your offer, you show that you have thought about how your skills and content can directly benefit the brand.

Use Engaging Language

The tone and language of your email should reflect the brand’s style. If the brand uses a casual and friendly tone on social media, mirror this in your email. Conversely, if the brand’s communication style is more formal, adjust your tone accordingly.

For example:

  • Casual Tone: "Hey [Recipient’s Name], I'm really loving what you guys are doing with [Brand Name] on Instagram! Let’s team up and create some awesome UGC together."
  • Formal Tone: "Dear [Recipient’s Name], I am impressed by [Brand Name]’s strategic use of user-generated content on Instagram. I would be honored to discuss a potential collaboration."

—>Adapting your language to match the brand’s tone makes your email feel more personalized and in sync with the brand’s identity.

Include Visual Elements

If appropriate, include visual elements in your email to make it more engaging. This could be a small portfolio of your best UGC work, a relevant infographic, or a personalized video message. Visual content can capture attention quickly and provide a tangible example of what you offer.

For example:

  • "I’ve attached a brief portfolio showcasing some of my recent Instagram UGC projects. I believe these examples illustrate how I can help [Brand Name] create impactful and engaging content."

—>Including visuals not only personalizes your email but also provides immediate value, making it easier for the brand to envision a collaboration with you.

Introduce Yourself and Your Value Proposition

introduce yourself cold email ugc

Introducing yourself and clearly articulating your value proposition is a crucial part of securing UGC deals through cold email. As a UGC creator, your introduction should be concise yet impactful, setting the stage for why the brand should consider partnering with you. Here’s how to effectively introduce yourself and present your value proposition in a cold email.

Start with a Brief Introduction

Begin your email with a concise introduction that includes your name, your role as a UGC creator, and a brief overview of your expertise. This sets the context for the recipient and gives them a quick snapshot of who you are.

For example:

  • "Hi [Recipient’s Name], I’m [Your Name], an experienced UGC creator specializing in developing engaging content for brands on Instagram and TikTok."

—>This introduction immediately establishes your identity and area of expertise, providing a clear foundation for the rest of your email.

Highlight Your Experience

Next, briefly highlight your experience in the field. Mention any notable brands you have worked with, the type of content you specialize in, and any significant achievements or metrics that demonstrate your success as a UGC creator.

For example:

  • "Over the past few years, I’ve had the pleasure of collaborating with top brands such as [Brand Names]. My focus has been on creating high-quality UGC that boosts engagement and drives sales. One of my recent campaigns on Instagram achieved a 20% increase in user engagement for [Brand Name]."

—>By showcasing your experience and achievements, you establish credibility and demonstrate that you have a proven track record of delivering results.

Articulate Your Value Proposition

The value proposition is the core of your pitch. It’s where you explain what makes you unique and how your UGC can benefit the brand. Focus on the specific advantages your content provides, such as enhancing brand authenticity, increasing engagement, or driving conversions.

For example:

  • "My value lies in creating authentic, user-centric content that resonates deeply with audiences. In today’s digital landscape, brands need content that not only captures attention but also builds trust. My approach to UGC ensures that your brand’s message is conveyed through genuine, relatable content that encourages user interaction and loyalty."

—>This statement clearly communicates the unique benefits you bring to the table and why your UGC is valuable to the brand.

Tailor Your Proposition to the Brand’s Needs

Tailoring your value proposition to the specific needs and goals of the brand further strengthens your pitch. Mention how your content can address particular challenges the brand might be facing or help them achieve their marketing objectives.

For example:

  • "I understand that [Brand Name] is focused on increasing its presence on TikTok. My expertise in creating engaging TikTok videos that highlight product features and foster community engagement could help elevate your brand’s presence on the platform and connect with a wider audience."

—>By aligning your value proposition with the brand’s goals, you make your offer more relevant and compelling.

Provide Social Proof

Including social proof, such as testimonials, case studies, or references, can bolster your value proposition. Social proof demonstrates that other brands have benefited from your UGC, adding credibility to your claims.

For example:

  • "Brands I’ve worked with have seen significant improvements in their social media metrics. [Brand Name] noted a 15% increase in Instagram followers and a boost in engagement after implementing my UGC strategy. Here’s what [Testimonial from Brand] had to say about our collaboration."

—>Social proof reassures the recipient that your content has a positive impact and that partnering with you can lead to similar success for their brand.

Mention Relevant Metrics

If possible, include specific metrics that highlight the effectiveness of your UGC. Metrics such as engagement rates, conversion rates, and follower growth can provide tangible evidence of your value.

For example:

  • "My UGC projects usually achieve engagement rates of 10-15% on Instagram, which is significantly higher than the industry average. In my last campaign, user interactions increased by 25%, demonstrating the powerful impact of authentic content."

—>Metrics give your value proposition a data-driven foundation, making it more persuasive.

Conclude with a Strong Statement

End your introduction with a strong statement that reinforces your enthusiasm for the potential collaboration and sets the stage for the next part of your email.

For example:

  • "I am passionate about creating content that not only highlights products but also tells a compelling story that resonates with audiences. I am confident that my UGC can help [Brand Name] achieve its social media goals and foster a deeper connection with its followers."

—>This concluding statement underscores your commitment to the brand’s success and paves the way for the next section of your email, where you will showcase your work.

Showcase Your Work

show your work when you cold email

When pitching yourself as a UGC creator to brands through cold email, showcasing your work is crucial. Demonstrating your past successes and the quality of your content can significantly enhance your credibility and persuade brands to collaborate with you. Here’s how to effectively showcase your work in a cold email.

Curate a Portfolio

A well-organized portfolio is essential for UGC creators. It provides a visual and detailed representation of your skills, style, and the impact of your content. When showcasing your work, ensure that your portfolio is easily accessible, either through a link or attached file.

For example:

  • "Please find attached a link to my portfolio, which includes a collection of my recent UGC projects on Instagram and TikTok. These examples highlight my ability to create engaging and authentic content that resonates with audiences."

—>A portfolio allows brands to see the breadth and depth of your work, making it easier for them to envision how your content could benefit their campaigns.

Highlight Key Projects

Within your portfolio, emphasize key projects that are particularly relevant to the brand you’re pitching to. Choose examples that align with the brand’s aesthetic, target audience, and marketing goals.

For example:

  • "Recently, I created a series of TikTok videos for [Brand Name], leading to a 30% increase in user engagement and a substantial rise in followers. These videos showcased the product’s unique features in a fun and relatable manner."

—>Highlighting specific projects demonstrates your ability to deliver results and showcases your expertise in creating content that drives engagement.

Include Metrics and Results

Metrics and results are powerful tools for showcasing your work. They provide tangible evidence of the effectiveness of your content and its impact on brand performance. When including metrics, focus on key performance indicators (KPIs) such as engagement rates, reach, conversions, and follower growth.

For example:

  • "The UGC I made for [Another Brand] resulted in a 20% increase in Instagram followers and a 15% rise in post engagement. These metrics highlight the potential impact my content can have on your brand’s social media presence."

—>Including specific metrics not only validates your work but also provides brands with a clear picture of the potential benefits of collaborating with you.

Use Testimonials and Case Studies

Testimonials and case studies add credibility to your portfolio by providing third-party validation of your work. Positive feedback from previous clients can reassure potential partners about the quality and impact of your content.

For example:

  • "Here’s what [Client Name], the social media manager at [Previous Brand], had to say about our collaboration: ‘Working with [Your Name] was a game-changer for our social media strategy. The UGC not only increased our engagement but also fostered a stronger connection with our audience.’"

—>Including testimonials and case studies demonstrates that other brands have successfully worked with you and benefited from your content, making your pitch more convincing.

Present a Variety of Content Types

Showcasing a variety of content types can highlight your versatility as a UGC creator. Include different formats such as photos, videos, stories, and reels to demonstrate your ability to create diverse and dynamic content.

For example:

  • "My portfolio features a diverse array of content, including high-quality Instagram photos, captivating stories, and viral TikTok videos. This variety showcases my ability to adapt to different platforms and create content that captivates audiences."

—>Presenting a range of content types shows brands that you can cater to their specific needs and create content that fits seamlessly into their existing marketing strategies.

Use Visuals to Enhance Your Pitch

Incorporate visuals directly into your email to make your pitch more engaging and immediately impactful. Including a few eye-catching images or links to videos can grab the recipient’s attention and provide a quick glimpse of your work.

For example:

  • "Attached are a few highlights from my recent Instagram campaigns. These visuals demonstrate my ability to create aesthetically pleasing and highly engaging content."

—>Using visuals in your email makes it more visually appealing and allows the recipient to quickly assess the quality of your work.

Make it Easy to Access Your Work

Ensure that all links to your portfolio, examples, and any attached files are easily accessible and functioning correctly. Avoid large file attachments that may be difficult to open. Instead, use cloud-based links or embed smaller, optimized files.

For example:

  • "You can view my full portfolio here [Insert Link], and I’ve also attached a PDF with a few selected projects for your convenience."

—>Making it easy for the recipient to access your work shows professionalism and respect for their time, increasing the likelihood that they will review your content.

Make Your Proposal Clear

In the world of cold emailing, clarity is key. As a UGC creator looking to secure deals with brands, making your proposal clear and concise is crucial. This ensures that your email is easy to understand and the recipient can quickly grasp the benefits of collaborating with you. Here’s how to structure your proposal effectively.

Be Direct and Specific

When crafting your proposal, be direct about what you are offering and what you expect from the brand. Avoid vague statements and provide specific details about the type of UGC you can create and how it aligns with the brand’s needs.

For example:

  • "I would like to propose creating a series of TikTok videos for [Brand Name] that showcase your latest product launch. These videos will highlight the product’s unique features and demonstrate its usage in everyday scenarios."

—>By being specific, you make it easier for the brand to visualize the collaboration and understand the potential benefits.

Outline the Benefits

Clearly outline the benefits of your proposal to the brand. Explain how your UGC will help them achieve their marketing goals, such as increasing engagement, driving sales, or enhancing brand authenticity.

For example:

  • "With my expertise in crafting engaging TikTok content, [Brand Name] can look forward to higher user engagement and a stronger bond with your target audience. My previous collaborations have resulted in up to a 30% boost in engagement rates."

—>Highlighting the benefits makes your proposal more attractive and demonstrates the value you bring to the table.

Include a Timeline

Providing a timeline for the project can add structure to your proposal and help the brand understand the expected timeframe. Outline the key milestones and deliverables to give a clear picture of the project’s progression.

For example:

  • "I propose starting the project on [Start Date], with the first draft of videos ready for review by [Review Date]. The final versions will be delivered by [End Date]. This timeline ensures we have ample time for feedback and revisions."

—>A well-defined timeline shows professionalism and helps manage expectations.

Offer Different Options

Giving the brand a few options to choose from can make your proposal more flexible and appealing. Offer different packages or content types to cater to various needs and budgets.

For example:

  • "I can offer the following options:
    1. Three TikTok videos showcasing product features - $XXX
    2. A series of five Instagram posts and stories - $XXX
    3. A comprehensive package including five TikTok videos and a week’s worth of Instagram content - $XXX"

—>Providing options allows the brand to choose the package that best fits their requirements and budget.

Highlight Your Availability

Mention your availability to start the project and any flexibility you have in your schedule. This helps the brand plan and ensures they know when you can begin working on the collaboration.

For example:

  • "I am ready to start the project immediately and can adjust my schedule to fit [Brand Name]’s timeline.”

—>Indicating your availability shows your eagerness to begin the collaboration and your willingness to work around the brand’s schedule.

Keep It Concise

While it’s important to provide detailed information, keeping your proposal concise is equally crucial. Brands often receive numerous pitches, and a lengthy email can be overwhelming. Aim to keep your proposal to the point, focusing on the most important details.

For example:

  • "To summarize, I propose creating three TikTok videos for [Brand Name]’s upcoming product launch. These videos will increase engagement and showcase your product’s unique features. I am available to start immediately, with a projected completion date of [End Date]. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further."

—>A concise proposal respects the recipient’s time and makes it easier for them to quickly understand and respond to your offer.

Use Clear and Simple Language

Avoid using jargon or overly complex language in your proposal. Clear and simple language ensures that your message is easily understood and accessible to all recipients.

For example:

  • "I specialize in creating short, engaging videos for TikTok that highlight product features and benefits. These videos can help increase your brand’s visibility and engagement on the platform."

—>Simple language helps convey your message effectively and ensures that the key points are not lost in translation.

Include a Call to Action

Finish your proposal with a clear call to action. Specify the next steps you want the recipient to take, such as scheduling a meeting, replying to your email, or providing feedback on your proposal.

For example:

  • "I would love to discuss this proposal in more detail. Could we schedule a call next week to go over the details and answer any questions you might have?"

—>A call to action guides the recipient towards the next steps and encourages them to engage with your proposal.

Follow Up

Following up on your cold email is a critical step in securing UGC deals with brands. A well-timed and thoughtfully crafted follow-up can significantly increase your chances of getting a response and ultimately landing a collaboration. Here’s how to effectively follow up with brands to ensure your email doesn’t get lost in the shuffle.

Timing is Key

Knowing when to follow up is crucial. You don’t want to appear too eager, but you also don’t want to wait too long and risk the brand forgetting about your initial email. A good rule of thumb is to wait about a week after your first email before sending a follow-up.

For example:

  • "Hi [Recipient’s Name], hope this email finds you well. I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding a potential UGC collaboration with [Brand Name]. I’m excited about the opportunity to work together and would love to discuss this further."

—>A week gives the recipient enough time to review your email and consider your proposal without feeling rushed.

Be Polite and Professional

Maintain a polite and professional tone in your follow-up email. Acknowledge that the recipient may have a busy schedule and that your intention is to gently remind them of your proposal.

For example:

  • "I understand that you have a busy schedule, and I appreciate your time. I just wanted to ensure that my previous email didn’t get lost and to reiterate my interest in collaborating with [Brand Name]."

—>Showing respect for the recipient’s time and responsibilities can make your follow-up more well-received.

Summarize Your Initial Proposal

Briefly summarize the key points of your initial proposal to refresh the recipient’s memory. This is especially helpful if they receive many emails and may not immediately recall your first message.

For example:

  • "To recap, I am a UGC creator with experience in producing engaging content for platforms like Instagram and TikTok. I proposed creating a series of TikTok videos for [Brand Name] that highlight your latest product launch. These videos aim to increase user engagement and enhance brand visibility."

—>Summarizing your proposal helps the recipient quickly grasp the purpose of your email without having to refer back to your original message.

Highlight Your Enthusiasm

Express your enthusiasm and genuine interest in working with the brand. This can help convey your passion and commitment to the potential collaboration.

For instance:

  • "I am genuinely excited about the possibility of working with [Brand Name]. I believe my experience and content creation skills can significantly contribute to your upcoming campaigns on Instagram and TikTok."

—>Enthusiasm can be contagious and may encourage the recipient to take your proposal more seriously.

Provide Additional Value

If possible, offer additional value or new ideas in your follow-up email. This can show the brand that you are continually thinking about how to contribute to their success and that your proposal is evolving.

For example:

  • "I’ve been brainstorming some additional ideas that could further enhance your campaign. For instance, we could integrate user testimonials into the TikTok videos to add authenticity and credibility. I’d love to discuss these ideas with you in more detail."

—>Offering new insights or ideas can make your follow-up stand out and demonstrate your proactive approach.

Include a Clear Call to Action

Finish your follow-up email with a clear and specific call to action. This guides the recipient towards the next steps and makes it easier for them to respond.

For example:

  • "Can we schedule a brief call next week to discuss this proposal further? I am flexible with my availability and can adjust to your schedule."

A clear call to action encourages the recipient to take immediate steps, increasing the likelihood of a response.

Keep It Concise

While it’s important to provide enough information in your follow-up, keeping the email concise ensures that it’s quick to read and digest. Busy professionals are more likely to respond to emails that are straightforward and to the point.

For example:

  • "I wanted to follow up on my previous email regarding our potential collaboration. I am excited about the opportunity to create engaging UGC for [Brand Name] and would love to discuss this further. Could we schedule a call next week?"

—>A concise follow-up respects the recipient’s time and makes it easier for them to reply.

Use Multiple Channels

If you don’t receive a response after a couple of follow-up emails, consider using other communication channels such as LinkedIn. Sometimes a different platform can catch the recipient’s attention more effectively.

For instance:

  • "Hi [Recipient’s Name], I sent you an email last week regarding a potential UGC collaboration. I’d love to connect and discuss how we can work together to enhance [Brand Name]’s presence on Instagram and TikTok."

—>Using multiple channels increases your chances of getting noticed without being too persistent on one platform.

Securing UGC deals through cold emailing requires a strategic and thoughtful approach. By thoroughly researching and identifying potential partners, crafting compelling subject lines, and personalizing your emails, you can make a strong initial impression. Introducing yourself and clearly articulating your value proposition is crucial in highlighting why brands should collaborate with you. Showcasing your work effectively, making your proposal clear, and following up with professionalism and persistence further solidify your chances of success.

As a UGC creator, leveraging platforms like Instagram and TikTok to demonstrate your skills can significantly enhance your appeal to brands. By focusing on these steps and maintaining a professional, enthusiastic approach, you can build meaningful partnerships and create impactful user-generated content that resonates with audiences and achieves marketing goals.