By now, smart businesses should be familiar with the “millennial” generation, which generally represent those from about age 20-30. It’s a large segment, population-wise, and acts differently than previous age groups.

Smarter businesses should be looking closer at the NEXT age group to come along, which is unofficially referred to as “Generation z.”

Demographically, it represents the 10-20 age group, pretty much anyone born after 2000. Many are in school now but already are making plans for careers and education.

What’s especially exciting about Generation Z is that it’s the first generation entirely raised in a digital world, with the Internet, mobile devices and online advertising a constant presence.

Because of being ‘native’ speakers of the digital world, they are also the best at paying attention to better ads or blocking out the bad ones.

Businesses hoping to market to this age group should consider:

  • They’re into sincerity. While other generations may be persuaded by messages telling how great a business is and how well it helps the environment, some of Gen Z want to see proof and not just believe the statements.
  • They like to text. Even though their parents may accuse them of texting too much, it really has become a solid way of communicating simple and complex thoughts and concepts that earlier generations may have done via phone or face-to-face.
  • They have short attention spans. This also goes with the interest in texting. If something doesn’t grab their attention within eight seconds, they may move on. This means that businesses should get in quick and wow them. But they should also be ready to provide additional information. Just because they’re easily distracted, doesn’t mean that they’re not interested in learning more about something that catches their eye.
  • They seek opinions.  The idea of the ‘professional influencer’ is someone who others look to for advice on what to do, what to wear, what to like and how to accomplish something. Many of the Generation Z ones are as accessible as their YouTube channel or Twitter feed.

For more strategies visit MGA Digital Marketing.