How to Use User-Generated Content in Reels to Build Trust

User-generated content (UGC) is a goldmine for any brand looking to build trust, boost engagement, and showcase authenticity. Combine that with Instagram Reels—a feature designed to capture attention and expand your reach—and you’ve got a winning strategy.

Featuring real customers in your Reels not only highlights your product or service in action but also creates a sense of community and credibility. People trust people, and UGC shows your audience that others love what you offer. Let’s dive into why UGC Reels are so effective and how to use them to grow your brand.

Why UGC in Reels is a Game-Changer

1. Builds Authenticity and Trust

   • Seeing real people using your products or services makes your brand relatable and trustworthy.

   • According to a study by Nielsen, 92% of consumers trust recommendations from others over branded content.

2. Fosters Community

   • Featuring UGC shows your customers that you value their input and contributions, turning casual buyers into loyal brand advocates.

   • Highlighting their experiences strengthens their connection to your brand.

3. Increases Engagement

   • UGC feels more genuine than polished ads, making it more likely to resonate with your audience.

   • Reels featuring UGC often inspire others to share their own content, creating a ripple effect.

4. Boosts Reach

   • Reels are a discovery-friendly format. When you pair them with authentic, shareable UGC, they’re more likely to land on the Explore page or in new users’ feeds.

How to Collect UGC for Your Reels

1. Encourage Your Customers to Share

Make it easy for your customers to create content:

• Branded Hashtags: Create a simple, memorable hashtag for your audience to use when posting about your brand. Example: #MadeWithLoveBy[BrandName].

• Social Media Challenges: Run a challenge encouraging customers to share creative uses of your product.

• Ask for Reviews: Prompt your audience to share their thoughts in video form.

2. Incentivize Participation

Give your customers a reason to share:

• Feature Their Content: Highlighting UGC in your Reels is often enough incentive for customers who love your brand.

• Offer Rewards: Provide discounts, shoutouts, or small prizes for those who submit the best content.

3. Monitor and Save Content

Track mentions, tags, and your branded hashtag to find UGC. Save posts and videos that align with your brand aesthetic for future use. Tools like Later and Hootsuite make this process seamless.

Editing and Sharing UGC in Reels

Step 1: Select High-Quality Content

Choose UGC that aligns with your brand’s tone, visuals, and values. Ensure it’s well-lit, clear, and highlights your product or service effectively.

Step 2: Edit for Consistency

Use simple editing tools to enhance UGC and make it cohesive with your brand:

• InShot or CapCut: Great for trimming and adding text overlays.

• Canva: Ideal for creating branded intros or outros.

• Instagram’s Built-In Tools: Use effects, music, and text to keep it native to the platform.

Step 3: Combine Clips for Impact

Create a montage of UGC clips to showcase multiple perspectives:

• Example: If you sell fitness gear, compile clips of customers using your products during workouts, paired with an upbeat song.

Step 4: Add Your Branding

Ensure your logo or hashtag is visible but not intrusive. Subtle branding makes the Reel feel professional while keeping the focus on your customers.

Step 5: Write a Compelling Caption

Pair your UGC Reel with an engaging caption:

• Thank the featured customers: “Big love to our amazing community for sharing how you use our products! 🫶”

• Add a call-to-action: “Want to be featured next? Tag us in your videos with #MyBrandStory!”

Best Practices for Sharing UGC in Reels

1. Always Credit the Creator

Give credit where it’s due! Mention the original creator in your caption or tag them in the Reel. It shows respect and encourages others to participate.

2. Get Permission

Before sharing someone’s content, always ask for their consent. A quick DM or comment on their post works wonders for maintaining goodwill.

3. Keep It Customer-Centric

Focus on your customer’s story, not just your product. Show how your offering fits into their lives and solves their problems.

Examples of Brands Rocking UGC Reels

1. Glossier

This beauty brand frequently reposts customers showing off their skincare routines, adding captions like, “Your glow is our favorite result. ✨ #GlossierIRL.”

2. Airbnb

Airbnb shares Reels of guests enjoying unique stays, inspiring wanderlust and showcasing the real-life experiences of their customers.

3. Peloton

Peloton highlights user-submitted workout videos in motivational montages, reinforcing the community spirit they’re known for.

Why Your Brand Should Start Today

Creating Reels with user-generated content is more than a trend—it’s a strategy for building trust, engagement, and community. When your audience sees real people loving your products, they’ll want to join the club.

So, what are you waiting for? Start encouraging your customers to share their experiences, and get ready to showcase the heart and soul of your brand through authentic, impactful Reels.

Have a favorite UGC Reel idea or success story? Share it in the comments below! Let’s inspire each other to create magic. ✨