User generated content (UGC) is one of the key elements of Web 2.0. This term refers to text or graphics that have been created by the users of the website. This type of content has been characterized as “Conversational Media” and comprises all digital media technologies, including forums, blogs, question-answer databases, review sites, social media sites, wikis, and customer testimonials. The majority of user generated content can be found on social networking platforms and forums where users can create and exchange pictures, articles, and news.
How Can User Generated Content Help Your Business?
This type of content has become increasingly more popular in the last years. Some of the most popular sites on the Internet are user generated. By allowing your visitors to upload their own reviews, testimonials, and experiences on your website, you will increase customer interaction and generate more sales. The more people contribute to your site, the more content you will have.
Internet users can help you cover short-term events that otherwise would a challenge. Studies have shown that most customers are now booking trips based on online travel reviews rather than magazine articles. User generated content can also boost your popularity online, increase your search engine rankings, and drive traffic to your site.
Different Types of User Generated Content for Your Website
Many companies are making use of high profile bloggers who are already creating content on their niches. Connect with industry influencers and famous bloggers, and ask them to write about your products, either on your site or on other branded online channels.
If you have an online store, encourage your clients to post reviews and testimonials on your website. Customer reviews are the most effective social media strategies for driving sales. A recent study indicates that 11 percent of merchants saw a 20 percent overall increase in conversions as a result of adding reviews to their websites. Customer reviews enhance your products’ search engine visibility and support your market research efforts.
Adding a forum to your site is another great way to encourage customer interaction. Forums allow users to ask questions, exchange opinions, and express their point of view. Search engines read every page of your site. A forum can help you rank better for the targeted keywords and get more traffic.
Bloggers can encourage their readers to post personal stories or upload pictures or videos on their sites. This is a great way to enhance your blog with user generated content. If you are an app developer, you can ask other users to contribute to your project.
Image credit: Salvatore Vuono