User-Generated Content (UGC) is content like videos, photos, or reviews made by everyday people instead of brands. Companies pay creators anywhere from about $50 to $300+ per video because authentic content performs better than polished ads. For students, it’s a great side hustle—you don’t need a big social following, just creativity and a phone. The work is flexible, remote, and easy to fit around classes, making it a smart way to earn extra cash while building valuable digital skills.

How To Get Started

Step by step instructions for how to start creating UGC and earning

tep 1: Choose Your Platform(s)

Decide where you’ll find UGC work. Options for NZ students include:

• Influenced – local marketplace connecting creators with brands

• Reel Humans – paid short-form video campaigns

• Herbicare Creator Program – small campaigns with free products

• Twirl / Insense – global UGC platforms accepting NZ creators

Step 2: Sign Up & Verify

• Create an account using email or social login.

• Complete any verification steps (ID, phone, or PayPal/Stripe for payments).

Step 3: Build Your Profile

• Add a clear profile photo and short bio.

• Highlight relevant skills (video creation, photography, social media, editing).

• Upload examples or links to your previous work if possible.

Step 4: Select Your Services or Campaigns

• On platforms like Influenced, choose the types of content you want to create.

• On campaign-based platforms (Twirl, Insense and SideShift), browse available campaigns and read briefs carefully.

Step 5: Understand Payment & Rules

• Check how much each campaign pays (typically $50–$300+ per video).

• Know payout methods (PayPal, bank transfer, gift cards) and minimum payout thresholds.

Step 6: Create Content

• Follow the campaign brief exactly.

• Use natural, authentic presentation—brands pay for “real people” content.

• Use good lighting and clear audio/video.

Step 7: Submit & Get Feedback

• Upload your content through the platform.

• Some platforms provide feedback; revise if needed.

Step 8: Receive Payment

• Once approved, payment is released according to the platform’s schedule.

• Track earnings and campaigns in a simple spreadsheet for reference.

Step 9: Build Reputation

• Consistently create quality content.

• Collect positive reviews and ratings where available.

• Higher ratings often lead to more campaigns and higher pay.

Step 10: Scale Your UGC Work

• Join multiple platforms to maximize opportunities.

• Try different content types (Reels, TikToks, photos) to expand your portfolio.

• Reinvest earnings into better equipment or editing tools to improve quality.

The only websites and Apps you will need

Websites/Apps

Twirl

Twirl is a top platform for UGC creators, connecting you with brands that pay $90–$300+ per project. You create videos like unboxings, testimonials, or how-to demos for TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube. With clear briefs, transparent pay, and a supportive community, Twirl makes it easy to earn and grow your content creation skills.

Insense

Insense connects creators with brands to produce authentic UGC for Instagram and TikTok. Creators can earn $50–$300+ per project by making videos or photos for campaigns, while brands get engaging, real-world content. The platform handles briefs, approvals, and secure payments, making it easy to start and scale your content creation work.

SideShift

SideShift connects Gen Z creators with paid UGC, social media, and brand gigs. With flexible opportunities, fast payouts, and performance tracking, it’s perfect for students and beginners to earn money, build experience, and grow their content creation skills.