What Is Branded Content? (5 Ways To Create It)

Have you noticed how some ads feel more like stories? These aren't just ordinary commercials—they're branded content. It's transforming how businesses boost ROI by building trust and increasing audience retention.

Take Nike's Winning Isn't for Everyone campaign, launched in 2024. Featuring some of the world's greatest athletes, this campaign showed that the drive for victory is universal, connecting with sports fans and boosting engagement and loyalty.

If you're ready to "just do it," we'll explain branded content and reveal 5 ways to create it for measurable business success.

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Branded Content Meaning

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It's a marketing strategy where companies convey their message through storytelling rather than directly asking people to purchase. The aim is to entertain, educate, or inspire while highlighting what matters most to the company.

It's not about saying, "Here's our product—buy it!" but about creating something that sticks in people's minds.

Imagine a café posting a video about how they source their coffee beans from small farmers, showing the journey from farm to cup. This doesn't shout, "Buy our coffee!" Instead, it builds trust and makes you feel good about choosing their coffee because of the story behind it.

5 Ways to Create Branded Content

You can create branded content by collaborating with influencers, sharing your story, engaging audiences, using interactive formats, and supporting meaningful causes. Here’s more insight into each method to help you get started:

1. Collaborate with Influencers

We all follow someone online whose recommendations feel like advice from a trusted friend. Companies partner with these influencers to share their products naturally. A fitness enthusiast might casually highlight their favorite water bottle during a workout, subtly introducing it to their audience without a sales pitch.

The success of this approach depends on choosing influencers who truly match the company's values. Authenticity is key, as a bad fit can seem fake and push audiences away.

2. Use Video to Tell Your Story

What's the story your favorite brands aren't telling you? Everyone loves a good story, and videos let you show your process, your team, and your values. 

For example, a small coffee shop might share a short video about their journey, from sourcing beans ethically to brewing the perfect cup.

This builds a deeper connection with your audience because people feel like they know the real "you" behind the product. So, start small with your phone or simple tools like CapCut. Share videos showing why you care about your work, whether a product, service, or cause.

3. Highlight Your Fans' Stories (UGC)

Have you ever posted a photo of something you love? Many people do, and companies often feature these posts as part of their marketing. This is called user-generated content (UGC), and it's incredibly effective because it shows real people using and enjoying your product.

For instance, a fitness company reposts a customer's before-and-after workout journey with their gear. This promotes the product and makes the customer feel appreciated and heard. 

Why is this so impactful? ‍

Because people trust other customers more than ads—they want to see how a product works in real life. Additionally, create a hashtag for customers to use when sharing their experiences, actively engage with their posts, and don't forget to credit them when reposting!

4. Get Interactive with Your Audience

People love interactive experiences like quizzes because it feels fun and rewarding. That's why companies create campaigns like polls, challenges, or even augmented reality filters.

A skincare company could launch a TikTok challenge where users create fun routines featuring their products, adding their own twist. This gets people involved and gives them a sense of ownership.

Use platforms like Instagram Stories for quick polls or TikTok for creative challenges. Offer simple rewards like discounts or shoutouts to keep participants motivated.

5. Stand for Something Bigger

Do you care about the environment, equality, or education? Companies that focus on social responsibility demonstrate they value more than just profits.

Think about a streetwear company launching limited-edition hoodies where a portion of each sale funds mental health programs. It's not just about the hoodie—it's about wearing something that stands for a cause, creating a deeper connection with customers who want their purchases to have a purpose.

Focus on causes that reflect your mission. Share updates and results so your audience sees the real impact of their support.

Branded Content vs. Commercials

Traditional ads say, "Buy this now." Storytelling says, "Here's why we care, and you might too." One drives quick action; the other builds lasting trust.

• Commercials: Focuses on quick sales by showcasing product features, discounts, or deals,  but often feels pushy and forgettable, while works best for immediate purchases.

• Branded Content: Uses stories to build trust and long-term relationships with the audience.

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When deciding which to use, think about your goal. Need fast results? Go with traditional ads. Want to create memorable connections? Choose storytelling. Both can work together for a balanced strategy.

What kind of content can be produced? Let's see.

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Branded Content on Facebook Examples

• Facebook Videos: Tutorials, product demos, or ads.

• Facebook Carousel Ads: Multiple images showcasing products or services.

• Facebook Live Streams: Real-time engagement for Q&A sessions or product launches.

• Facebook Polls and Interactive Posts: Engaging audiences with questions or quizzes.

Facebook's branded content policy approves sponsored posts that clearly disclose partnerships and adhere to its guidelines for authenticity. 

It bans misleading claims, clickbait, or promotions of harmful products. To comply, creators must use the Branded Content Tool to label partnerships.

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Instagram Branded Content 

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• Reels: Short, engaging videos with creative storytelling.

• Stories:  Short-lived posts perfect for sharing behind-the-scenes insights or quick promotional updates.
  
  
• Posts: High-quality images with detailed captions showcasing products.

• IGTV: Long videos ideal for tutorials or detailed storytelling that engages viewers on a deeper level.
  

Instagram's branded content policy requires all sponsored posts to include the Instagram Paid Partnership tag for transparency. 

It prohibits misleading endorsements, false claims, or partnerships with unapproved industries, such as certain health products.

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TikTok Branded Content 

TikTok's branded content policy requires creators to disclose paid partnerships using the disclosure setting. The platform may remove or restrict the video if it isn't activated. Here's how you can do it:

1. Open the Post screen > tap Content disclosure and ads. If you're not in TikTok Creator Marketplace, tap More Options instead.‍

2. Go to Disclose video content setting > on.‍

3. Choose Your brand or Third-party brand, product, or service.‍

4. Tap Save > tap Post.
   

To turn it before you go  LIVE:

1. On the LIVE screen > tap Settings > Content disclosure and ads.‍

2. Enable Disclose video content > select the promotion type.‍

3. Tap Save > Tap Go LIVE to start your session.
   

To turn  the content disclosure setting on the computer:

1. Click on Settings > Select the video file > Upload.‍

2. Turn the Disclose video content setting on > choose the promotion type.‍

3. Click Post to publish your video
   

The platform also prohibits misleading promotions, exaggerated claims, and partnerships with restricted industries, such as tobacco or unsafe products.

Quick Tips for Better ROI (Return On Investment)

What do you need for a better campaign? Start by understanding your audience, offering value, staying consistent, and tracking results. Here’s how these steps can improve your strategy.

Understand Your Audience

Do you know who you're talking to? Before creating anything, figure out what your audience loves and cares about and what problems they face. 

If your audience is parents, think about how your posts can make their lives easier or bring a smile to their day. Ask yourself: What do they need that I can offer? Knowing these details helps you create stories that feel personal and relatable.

Focus on Value

Nobody likes content that feels like a boring sales pitch. Instead, think about how you can help, entertain, or teach something new. Let's say you own a small gardening shop—why not create a video showing how to grow herbs at home? 

It gives your audience something useful while naturally showing your expertise.  When what you share is meaningful, people are more likely to remember and trust you.

Stay Consistent

Have you ever followed a page that felt all over the place? One day, it's funny memes; the next, it's serious advice. It's confusing. 

To prevent confusion, maintain a consistent voice and style that reflects your identity. From the colors you choose to the tone of your messaging and how you engage in comments, ensure everything feels cohesive and recognizable.

Monitor Results

To ensure your strategy works, use tools like Instagram Insights, TikTok Insights, or YouTube Analytics to see what gets clicks, comments, and shares. And don't forget the A/B test! If a post didn't do well, don't worry—it's a chance to learn. 

Maybe your video was too long, or your caption didn't grab attention. Pay attention to the numbers, tweak your approach, and keep experimenting until you find what works.

It isn't about perfection—it's about connecting with people in a way that feels real. Remember these tips, and you'll be on your way to creating stories that people love and remember. 

Ready for Your Brand's Story?

Let UGF Factory help you take your branded content to the next level. We're a creative agency that helps DTC brands drive more leads, conversions, and sales with high-performance video ads. Contact us today to get started!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do you get paid for branded content?

Yes, creators earn money by promoting products or services through sponsored collaborations and campaigns.

How much?

Payment varies widely, from $100 to $10,000+ per Post, depending on audience size, platform, and engagement.

How do I brand my content?

Use consistent visuals, tone, and messaging that reflect your identity and connect with your audience.

How do you qualify for branded content on Instagram?

Have a professional account, engage followers, and meet Instagram's transparency and content quality guidelines.

How many followers are needed for branded content on Instagram?

Most brands prefer creators with at least 1,000 engaged followers but smaller audiences with high engagement work, too.

How to enable branded content on Facebook?

Go to Page Settings > Branded Content. Use the Branded Content Tool to label sponsored posts.

How much is the branded effect on TikTok?

Costs range from $50,000 to $100,000, depending on reach, duration, and user engagement.

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