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How to Use UGC for Paid Ads

Mar 18
3 min read

User Generated Content (UGC) has become one of the most effective formats for paid advertising.


Unlike traditional ads, UGC feels authentic, relatable, and native to platforms like TikTok and Instagram—making it far more engaging and often more profitable.


But simply having UGC isn’t enough. To get results, you need to know how to use it properly.

In this guide, we break down how equestrian brands can turn UGC into high-performing ad creatives across TikTok, Instagram, and Facebook.


Why UGC Works for Paid Ads


UGC performs well in ads because it doesn’t feel like an ad.


Instead, it blends seamlessly into social feeds—making users more likely to stop scrolling and engage.


For equestrian brands, this is especially powerful because:

  • Riders trust real experiences over polished ads

  • Products are best shown in real-life use

  • Authentic content builds credibility quickly


As a result, UGC often delivers:

  • Higher click-through rates

  • Lower cost per click

  • Better conversion rates


Step 1: Choose the Right Type of UGC


Not all UGC works equally well for ads.


The best-performing formats include:

  • Problem/solution videos

  • Testimonials and reviews

  • Product demos

  • “Day in the life” content

  • TikTok-style trend videos


👉 View UGC examples → here



Step 2: Focus on the Hook (First 3 Seconds)


The first few seconds of your ad determine whether someone keeps watching or scrolls past.


Strong hooks for equestrian brands include:

  • “If you ride, you need this…”

  • “I didn’t expect this to work…”

  • “This solved one of my biggest horse problems…”

  • “POV: your horse finally…”


👉 Your goal is to create curiosity and relatability instantly.


Step 3: Keep It Natural and Relatable


UGC works because it feels real.


Avoid:

  • Over-editing

  • Overly scripted content

  • Making it feel like a traditional advert


Instead, focus on:

  • Natural delivery

  • Real environments (yard, stable, riding)

  • Genuine experiences


Step 4: Show the Product in Use


Always show the product in action.


For example:

  • Clothing worn while riding

  • Supplements added to feed

  • Tack used during training


This helps potential customers visualise using the product themselves.


Step 5: Highlight Benefits, Not Just Features


Instead of listing product features, focus on outcomes.


Example:

❌ “This supplement supports digestion”

✅ “My horse feels so much more settled since using this”


👉 Make it relatable and result-driven


Step 6: Use Platform-Specific Formats


Different platforms require slightly different approaches.


TikTok Ads

  • Fast-paced

  • Hook-heavy

  • Trend-driven

  • Feels completely native


Instagram Ads

  • Visually engaging

  • Slightly more polished

  • Works well with Reels


Facebook Ads

  • More direct

  • Benefit-focused

  • Strong messaging


👉 The key is adapting your UGC to match each platform while keeping it authentic.


Step 7: Test Multiple Creatives


One of the biggest advantages of UGC is scalability.


Instead of relying on one ad, test:

  • Multiple creators

  • Different hooks

  • Different formats


👉 The more variations you test, the better your results.


Common Mistakes to Avoid


  • Weak or slow openings

  • Overly polished content

  • Not showing the product clearly

  • Using only one creative

  • Treating UGC like a traditional ad


How Equestrian Brands Can Scale UGC Ads


To scale successfully:

  • Work with multiple creators

  • Continuously refresh content

  • Focus on performance, not perfection

  • Build a library of UGC assets


This allows you to test, optimise, and improve over time.


Start Using UGC for Paid Ads


If you want to create high-performing UGC ads, EQ Content connects you with equestrian creators who understand your audience and know how to produce content that converts.



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