Show or Share? Sponsorship vs UGC
LYNNIE VERSION
Would you like to read this article in more grown-up words, still easy to understand? Jump here.
Hi! I’m Lynnie! Today I’m comparing sponsorship vs UGC. Together, grown-ups call them brand deals. They look alike, but what the brand pays for is really different!
What they share
Both pay a set price. In both, you make content with the brand’s product. And in both, you’re paid for your work, not for how much the brand sells afterwards.
That’s different from affiliate marketing, where you only earn a little reward when somebody buys.
The big difference
Sponsorship: they pay for your fans seeing it
In a sponsorship, the brand pays for your fans’ attention. How many people see you, and how much they care, is what makes you valuable. The content goes on YOUR page.
That’s why sponsorships need fans who really care, and why they usually pay more. Brands look closely at your engagement rate and who your fans are.
UGC: they pay for the content
In UGC, the brand pays just for the content itself. Then it uses it on its own pages, in ads, or on its website. How many fans you have matters way less!
What matters is making great content again and again, in a style that fits the brand.
Hidden creators
Sponsorships are slowly opening up to hidden creators. But brands still often like seeing the creator.
UGC works in ANY style. Hands, products, voices and pretty scenery can all make a great UGC video! So it’s one of the easiest doors for creators who like staying behind the camera.
Which first?
Just starting? Go for UGC first! You can start with a great collection, even without lots of fans. Every UGC job grows your skills, your collection and your brand friendships.
As your fans grow and keep caring, add sponsorships. Lots of brands that started with UGC come back with a sponsorship!
Skills you need
For UGC: making things look and sound great. Good light, clear sound, nice framing, and editing that fits the brand. And following the brand’s instructions exactly!
For sponsorships: all of that, PLUS keeping your fans happy and interested.
Agreements
Both need a written agreement. For UGC, focus on how long and where the brand can use your content. For sponsorships, also agree on posting dates and the ad label.
When a brand writes to you, ask: do you want me to POST it, or just SEND it? Posting means sponsorship, and they should pay for your fans’ attention too. Just sending means UGC, and usage is the big topic.
Three oopsies
- Mixing up the two when talking prices.
- Letting a brand use your UGC forever, for a small price.
- Forgetting to label sponsorships as ads. Every one, every time!
A story
A creator films calm coffee moments without showing her face. A coffee machine brand orders five UGC videos for its ads. She sends them, and the brand posts them.
A year later, lots of people follow her and really care. A coffee bean brand offers her a sponsorship: one video on her page, labeled as sponsored, for more money. Yay!
What’s next?
The next article compares affiliate marketing and sponsorships, the two first ways influencers earned money. The whole module is in the book on our products page. Want a grown-up to help you choose? Go to our services page.
What grown-ups usually ask (and I answer)
Is UGC good without followers?
Yes! One of the easiest ways to start.
Can UGC turn into a sponsorship?
Yes! Often, once your fans grow.
Do I post UGC on my page?
Usually not. The brand does.
What’s the main difference?
Sponsorship pays for fans’ attention too. UGC pays just for content.
Are both a set price?
Yes!
Which pays more?
Usually sponsorships.
Which is easier for beginners?
UGC!
Can hidden creators do sponsorships?
More and more, yes. UGC is even easier.
Can I do both?
Yes!
Will there be step-by-step lessons for each of the ten ways?
Maybe! If lots of people want them. Join the waitlist and you’ll know first.
Where can I get help on a small budget?
Lynnaider shows you ways to start that cost nothing, or very little. You’d be surprised! And a free robot helper called Lynnaider Compass helps you step by step.
Disclaimer: This article is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as legal, tax, or business advice. Pursuing an online business does not guarantee income; results depend on many factors including the business environment, individual effort, skills, and consistency. Some links on this site may allow Lynnaider to earn a commission at no additional cost to the reader.
