UGC Outreach Messages That Actually Get Replies (Templates)

Most UGC outreach gets ignored for boring reasons. It’s not that brands “don’t work with creators.” It’s that your message looks like every other DM sitting in their inbox: vague, copy-pasted, and centered around you.

A lot of creators open with “I love your brand” and then immediately ask for a collaboration… without saying what they’ll actually deliver. Or they dump their whole life story, a giant portfolio link, and a “let me know” at the end. From the brand side, that’s work. They have to guess what you want, what it costs, and whether you’re even a safe bet.

The other big killer is proof. Not in a “look how famous I am” way, but in a quick, simple way that shows you can produce good ad-style content and deliver on time. If there’s no credibility and no clear next step, the easiest decision is to ignore it.

This guide fixes that. You’ll get plug-and-play outreach templates you can copy, paste, and personalize in 30 seconds, plus a few different angles (paid, gifted-first, performance, speed) so you can pick the right message depending on the brand and your goal. The aim isn’t to sound “perfect.” It’s to make it easy for a brand to say yes.

Before You DM or Email: 5 Rules That Get Replies

Before you even touch the templates, get this right: brands don’t reply to “nice messages.” They reply to messages that feel specific, low-risk, and easy to act on. Your goal is to remove friction.

1) Personalization that’s real (1–2 specific details)

Personalization isn’t “Hey brand name 😍”. It’s one small proof you actually looked at them. Mention a specific product, a recent ad, a creator they reposted, a campaign angle, or even something like “I saw you’re pushing bundles right now.” Keep it short. One or two details max. If you write more than that, it starts to feel forced.

The trick is: personalize the reason you’re reaching out, not your compliments. Instead of “Love your brand,” say “I noticed you’re running Reels that feel more editorial, I can create more ‘native’ UGC-style ads that blend in the feed.”

2) One clear offer (what you’re delivering)

Most outreach fails because the brand has to guess what you mean by “collab.” Spell it out in one sentence: what you’re delivering, in what format, and the vibe. Think: “1 UGC-style TikTok/Reels video (20–30s) + 3 raw hooks” or “2 short ad concepts + 1 edit each.”

This is where you win trust. Brands don’t need a poem. They need clarity.

3) One clear CTA (what you want them to do next)

End with a specific next step. Not “Let me know”, that puts the work on them. Give a simple choice: “Want me to send 3 hook ideas?” or “Who’s the right person for UGC?” or “Can I send a quick concept deck?”

If the CTA is small, you’ll get more replies. You’re not asking them to marry you. You’re asking them to open a door.

4) Proof without flexing (1 line, 1 link)

Proof is not a list of 25 brands you “worked with.” It’s a single sentence that reduces risk, plus one link that shows quality. Examples: “I’ve created UGC ads for skincare + apps (delivered within 48 hours).” Then drop one portfolio link.

If you don’t have brand work yet, proof can be “I can send 2 spec ads in your style this week”, and your link shows those spec ads. You’re proving ability, not status.

5) Make it easy to say yes (options)

Brands hesitate when it feels like a big decision. Give them simple options so they can pick a path instead of debating. For example: “I can do a paid test video, or start with a gifted test and upgrade if you want to run it as an ad.” Or: “Option A: 1 video. Option B: 2 videos + extra hooks.”

Options = less friction. Less friction = replies.

If you follow these five rules, your templates will actually work, because they’ll sound like a real person with a clear offer, not another “hey brand” DM.

Outreach “Angles” That Work (Pick One)

The fastest way to get ignored is to send a “one-size-fits-all” message. The fastest way to get replies is to pick one angle and make the message feel purpose-built for that brand right now. Here are the angles that consistently work, and when to use each.

Paid UGC offer (direct)

Use this when you’re confident in your portfolio and the brand already spends on content (active ads, consistent Reels/TikTok, frequent drops). You’re not asking for permission, you’re offering a clear, paid deliverable.

The key is to make it feel low-risk: a small paid test, fast delivery, simple usage rights. Brands reply when they can instantly understand “what I get + what it costs + what happens next.”

Gifted-first (then paid)

Use this for smaller brands, early-stage ecom, or brands that clearly do gifting already (lots of influencer reposts, “ambassador” vibes, or they’re new to UGC). It’s also useful if your portfolio is still growing and you want easier “yes” conversations.

The positioning matters: you’re not begging for free stuff. You’re proposing a trial with a clear upgrade path. Example framing: “If you love it, we can turn it into a paid bundle next.”

Performance angle (ads / ROAS mindset)

Use this when the brand runs paid ads or talks like a performance brand (mentions CAC, ROAS, conversion, scaling, creatives, “UGC ads”). Your message should sound like you understand that they’re not buying a video, they’re buying a creative test.

Here you lead with outcomes: “I make ads that hold attention + show the product + drive clicks.” Bonus points if you mention angles like hooks, objections, proof, or variations. Even better if you offer multiple hooks or variants as part of the deliverable.

Speed angle (fast turnaround)

Use this when the brand is moving fast: trending products, frequent launches, TikTok-first brands, short promo windows, or when they’re clearly posting daily and need volume.

This angle works because speed removes a major friction point for brands, waiting. But don’t just say “fast.” Give a specific promise: “48-hour delivery” or “concepts in 24 hours, video in 72.”

Seasonal / launch angle

Use this when there’s a clear moment: holiday, Valentine’s, summer, back-to-school, Black Friday, or a product launch/restock. You’re basically saying: “You’re going to need content for this moment, I can make it.”

This works best when you tie it to a campaign format (gift guide, unboxing, problem/solution for winter skin, “new year routine,” etc.). The brand sees relevance immediately because your message plugs into their calendar.

If you’re unsure which angle to pick, default to this rule:

If they run ads → performance. If they post a lot → speed. If they’re small/new → gifted-first. If they’re established and active → paid direct. If there’s a timely moment → seasonal/launch.

Templates That Get Replies (Copy/Paste)

Below are plug-and-play messages you can literally copy, tweak, and send. Keep the structure, swap in the details (brand name, product, 1 specific compliment, your proof link), and you’re good.

Template 1 — Cold DM (Paid UGC)

Short, direct, confident.

DM:

Hi {BrandName}, loved your {specific product / recent post / angle} (especially {specific detail}).

I’m a UGC creator and I make {type of content: direct-response TikTok/Reels style} videos brands use for ads + organic.

If I sent over 2–3 video concepts for {ProductName} (hooks + angles), would you want me to produce 1 paid test video this week?

Proof: {portfolio link}

If yes, who’s best to speak to for content?

Template 2 — Cold Email (Paid UGC)

More context + link + next step.

Subject ideas:

• UGC idea for {BrandName} (quick test)
• 1–2 ad concepts for {ProductName}
• Content help for {BrandName} (UGC test)

Email:

Hi {FirstName},

I’m {YourName}, a UGC creator. I found {BrandName} through {where} and your {specific product / campaign / post} stood out, especially {specific detail}.

I create UGC videos that are built for performance (strong hook, clear message, simple CTA). If you’re open to it, I’d love to produce a small paid test for {ProductName}:

• 1 UGC video (15–30s) based on a proven ad structure
• 1 alternate hook so you can test two openers
• Delivered in {X} days

Portfolio: {link}

If this is relevant, I can send 2–3 concepts first. Want me to email them over?

Thanks,

{YourName}

{social link / website}

Template 3 — Gifted-First (With Paid Upsell)

Clear boundary so you don’t get trapped in free work.

DM / Email:

Hi {BrandName}, I’m a UGC creator and I’d love to make content for {ProductName}.

If you’re open to a gifted trial, here’s what I can do:

I’ll create 1 UGC video within {X} days of receiving the product.

If you like the quality and want to use it for paid ads / whitelisting / extra variations, we can move into a paid bundle right after (hooks + cutdowns + formats).

Portfolio: {link}

If you’re interested, who should I coordinate shipping + details with?

Template 4 — “Saw Your Ad” Angle (Best for brands already running ads)

Positions you as a creative partner, not a beggar.

DM / Email:

Hey {BrandName}, I just got served your ad for {ProductName}. The concept is strong.

I think you could boost performance with {one specific improvement} (e.g., punchier 1–2s hook, clearer product demo earlier, stronger proof moment, faster pacing).

If you want, I can produce {1–2} UGC ad variations built around:

• Hook A: {hook idea}
• Hook B: {hook idea}

Portfolio: {link}

Want me to send 3 quick concepts tailored to your current ad angle?

Template 5 — Follow-Up #1 (48–72h)

Polite bump, adds value.

DM / Email:

Quick follow-up, {FirstName}, not sure if you saw this.

I recorded 2 quick hook ideas for {ProductName} you can test:

1. {Hook idea #1}
2. {Hook idea #2}

If you want, I can turn one into a 15–30s UGC video this week. Portfolio here: {link}

Should I send over a simple package + timeline?

Template 6 — Follow-Up #2 (Last touch)

Short, closes the loop.

DM / Email:

Last nudge from me, {FirstName}, should I close this out for now?

If you ever need a fast UGC test for {ProductName}, here’s my portfolio: {link}.

Happy to help when timing’s better.

Template 7 — When They Ask “What’s Your Rate?”

A clean reply with 2–3 package options.

Reply:

Totally, here are my usual packages (usage/whitelisting can be added depending on what you need):

Option A — Starter Test

1 video (15–30s) + 1 hook variation — {price} — delivered in {X} days

Option B — Best Value

2 videos + 2 hook variations — {price} — delivered in {X} days

Option C — Ad Testing Bundle

3 videos (different angles) + cutdowns/resizes — {price} — delivered in {X} days

If you tell me the goal (organic vs ads) and your product link, I’ll recommend the best option and send concept ideas first.

Template 8 — When They Say “We Don’t Have Budget”

A reply that keeps the door open (and protects your time).

Reply:

No worries — totally understand.

If budget opens up later, I’d love to help with a small starter test so you can see results without a big commitment. My portfolio is here: {link}.

If you’re doing gifted only right now, I can sometimes do a limited trial when it’s a strong fit, but I keep those spots very tight and only include 1 deliverable with no paid usage unless we upgrade.

Want me to check if {ProductName} would fit that, or should we reconnect next month?

What to Send After They Reply “Yes”

Once a brand says yes, your job is to make the next step feel effortless. Don’t overwhelm them with a wall of questions or a full contract right away. Send a short message that (1) confirms the plan, (2) asks only what you need to start, and (3) sets a clear timeline.

Start with three quick questions. These keep the project tight and prevent scope creep later.

1) What’s the goal?

Are they trying to drive sales, get UGC for socials, or create ads they can test? This tells you what style to write (direct-response vs “pretty” organic), how strong the CTA should be, and what proof elements you should include.

2) Where is this going live?

Ask which platform(s): TikTok, Reels, YouTube Shorts, Meta ads, website, email. Platform decides pacing, format, aspect ratio, text size, and even how you frame the hook.

3) What exactly are the deliverables?

Confirm the number of videos, length, format (9:16), and whether they want variations (alternate hooks, cutdowns, different CTAs). If you don’t lock this in now, you’ll get “can you also make…” forever.

After that, move into product + timeline. Keep it simple and confident.

If they’re sending a product, ask for the shipping details and confirm when you’ll start filming (usually “X days after delivery”). If it’s a digital product or app, ask for access and whether they have a preferred demo flow. Then give them a realistic timeline like: concept approval → filming → first draft → one round of revisions → final delivery.

Finally, decide where you collect everything. The fastest way is either a short email checklist or a brief form.

• If it’s a smaller brand or a quick test, email is enough: links, product claims, must-say lines, do-not-say lines, and examples they like.
• If you want to look more “agency level,” use a brief form (Google Form / Typeform) so you don’t chase details across DMs.

Copy/paste message you can send

DM / Email:

Amazing, I’m in ✅

Before I start, quick 3 questions so I can nail the first version:

1. What’s the main goal for these videos (sales, ads testing, or organic content)?
2. Where will you use them (TikTok/Reels/Meta ads/website)?
3. What deliverables do you want (ex: 1x 20–30s video + 1 alternate hook)?

Once I have that, I’ll confirm timeline. If product shipping is needed, send: name + address + phone (for courier).

If it’s digital, send access + the product link + any “must mention / avoid” notes.

If you prefer, you can drop everything here and I’ll take it from there: {brief form link}

Now, this is a life changing information. And if you think you can use more information like this, make sure you check our weekly podcast.

Common Mistakes That Kill Replies

Most outreach fails for boring reasons, not because your work isn’t good. Brands get a lot of messages, and they make a decision in a few seconds: “Is this relevant, is it credible, and is it easy to respond?” If your message makes them work too hard to understand what you want, they’ll ignore it, even if they actually need UGC.

One big killer is long, heavy paragraphs with no clear next step. If your DM feels like a mini-essay, the brand has to “decode” it. And if there’s no CTA at the end, they don’t know what replying “yes” even means. Keep it short, then tell them exactly what you want them to do next (reply with an email, confirm interest, pick a package, etc.).

Another common mistake is too many links. It looks spammy and makes the message feel risky to click. One link is enough, two max if it’s absolutely necessary. You want “quick trust,” not a homework assignment. If you have multiple examples, put them behind one clean portfolio link, or offer to send 2–3 relevant samples after they reply.

Then there’s zero proof. You don’t need to flex, but you do need to reduce uncertainty. If you don’t include any proof (even a single link or one credibility line), your message reads like every other “hey brand!” DM. Proof can be simple: one portfolio link, one short performance result, or one sentence about what you’ve done.

A reply-killer that shows up everywhere is the vague offer: “Would love to collaborate.” Brands don’t know what you’re offering, how much work it is, how much it costs, or what they get back. Instead, say what you deliver in plain terms (for example: “2x 20–30s UGC videos with hooks + captions, delivered in 5 days”).

Finally, don’t sound like an influencer pitching exposure. A lot of brands have been burned by “I’ll post if you send free product” messages. If you’re pitching UGC, talk like a creator who makes assets for brands, not like someone asking for freebies. Your tone should be clear, professional, and product-focused: what you’ll create, how it helps, and what the next step is.

Conclusion

Outreach is a numbers game and a quality game. The goal is to send messages that are short, relevant, and easy to reply to, then keep sending consistently. Start with one strong template, tweak it based on what gets replies, and double down on what works. If you can make your outreach feel personal, credible, and frictionless, you’ll start getting “yes” replies a lot faster.