In the fast-growing world of user-generated content (UGC), creators have more opportunities than ever to work with brands. But if you’re pitching regularly and still not landing deals, it might not be your content—it could be your approach.
Here are some of the most common mistakes UGC creators make that could be costing you paid partnerships, plus exactly how to fix them.
1. Pitching Like It’s a Resume
The Mistake: Treating your pitch like a job application or life story.
Why It’s a Problem: Brands aren’t hiring you as an employee—they’re looking for a solution to a content need. A long-winded intro or generic copy-and-paste pitch gets ignored.
What to Do Instead: Be clear and direct. Briefly explain how your content can help their product stand out or resonate with their audience. Try: “Here’s how I can elevate your brand visually and emotionally.”
2. No Clear Niche or Visual Identity
The Mistake: A feed that jumps from cooking videos to gym clips to tech reviews with no consistency.
Why It’s a Problem: If a brand can’t figure out your niche, they won’t know where you fit.
What to Do Instead: Pick 1–2 content pillars that align with your strengths and stick to them. This makes you more memorable and positions you as the go-to creator in your space.
3. Ignoring Deliverables, Deadlines & Terms
The Mistake: Skimming or skipping contract details.
Why It’s a Problem: Misunderstandings about deadlines, content usage, or exclusivity can damage your relationship with a brand.
What to Do Instead: Ask questions before signing. Clarify timelines, what platforms content will be used on, and whether your likeness will be used in ads. Know what you’re agreeing to—and protect yourself.
4. Sending Low-Effort Samples
The Mistake: Sharing rushed, low-light, or poorly edited content as a sample.
Why It’s a Problem: Brands judge your professionalism based on your pitch package.
What to Do Instead: Treat your samples like real brand work. Use good lighting, clean framing, and confident delivery. Even mock samples should be polished and on-brand.
Final Thoughts
Landing UGC deals isn’t just about creating great content—it’s about how you show up as a professional partner. Fixing these common mistakes can instantly boost your credibility, improve your pitch success rate, and help you build long-term relationships with brands.
Want to get discovered by more brands? Explore casting opportunities at ProjectCasting.com and turn your content into paid partnerships.
