Generational use of social media Flashcards
How do Generation Alpha (born after 2010) use social media?
Gen Alpha already use voice for tech interaction. This will spread through the generations as parents communicate with their kids in the kids’ preferred medium, and as Gen Alpha enter the workplace.
Alphas use YouTube, and this is where they discover brands and folow influencers.
They are also more likely to talk to their friends via social media/devices than in person.
Alpha don’t like to be photographed and shared online all the time.
This generation will be the first to grapple fully with AI. This may also impact them not wanting to have their images online.
Influencers are massive with gen alpha. Social shoppers also.
How do Baby Boomers (1946 -64) use social media?
Baby boomers are more likely to watch videos on social media platforms. YouTube and Facebook have already successfully replaced TV and phone calls.
They usually post image content, watch family members’ activities, and frequently share social content from other’s accounts.
Some professionals are pretty active on LinkedIn to get updated on their professional life.
Preferred sites: YouTube, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn
How do Generation X (1965 - 79) use social media?
This age group is technologically much more advanced than the baby boomers. However, they didn’t grow up with a smartphone either; hence they are not used to the selfie and TikTok culture. Gen X is busy primarily caring for elderly family members or looking after a Generation Z kid.
Although Generation X is an overlooked group, they spend much time on social media. Different survey results show that 77.5% of Xers are regulars on digital sites. However, they are relatively straightforward and dislike experimenting like millennials. Unlike boomers, Xers are quite fond of online shopping, and before purchasing, they dig into social media reviews.
Gen X are nearly a third of the UK workforce. They tend to be avid researchers before buying anything. They also love nostalgia.
Generation X communicates a lot, and their social media activities are somewhere between boomers and millennials.
Preferred sites: Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Messenger.
How do millenials ( Gen Y, 1980 - 95) use social media?
This generation was heavily influenced by technology while growing up. 66.4% of millennials say social media has improved their lives. Among all the different generations on social media, 79% of millennials use social platforms multiple times per day.
However, millennials also say too much use of social media has made them spend time and money on unnecessary things.
Millennials are the first generation to grow up in the tech era and are more than comfortable adopting the Internet for professional or personal purposes. This generation is more into texting and chatting than phone calls.
This young generation is always active on their smartphone. They mostly shop online and love to follow brands. Their main motive for social sites is entertainment. Millennials live on digital platforms and regularly post content such as images, videos, stories, polls, etc.
They are active on social platforms and like to meet new people and explore more.
Sustainability and ethical trafe influences how they shop.
70% of this generation are parents and/or married. 24% are in management roles with purchasing power. 40% have a bachelor’s degree. They like esports and extreme sports and are very health conscious.
Brands need to be representative and inclusive in their ads.
Gen Y look to influencers for inspiration and education about their favourite likes and hobbies.
Preferred sites: Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Pinterest
How do generation Z (1996 - 2009) use social media?
Generation Z are considered the most populated and extensive group of consumers. Studies show that over 65% of Gen Z say they love spending their free time on social media.
This generation is attracted to vibrant visuals.
Gen Z seems to spend a short time reading anything; instead, they are more comfortable with visuals. Visuals are a common language they use for communicating.
Gen Zers have watched YouTube more than TV from an early age. They follow different brands or influencers on YouTube, Snapchat, and Instagram. Social media is the perfect place for them to hang out with friends.
Preferred sites: YouTube, Facebook, Snapchat, Instagram
