Mediaboss Marketing

By Venugopal Ganganna

Gen Z, the generation born between the mid-1990s and the early 2010s, is a digital native force unlike any other. Theyve never known a world without the internet, and social media platforms are their primary stomping grounds. This presents a unique challenge for marketers traditional methods simply dont resonate with this discerning and tech-savvy generation. As the CEO of an AI-powered marketing agency, I see Gen Z as a game-changer, and heres why:

Gone are the days of flipping through magazines or watching prime-time commercials. Gen Z gets its information, entertainment, and even shopping done through social media. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube are not just for connecting with friends theyre curated feeds showcasing the latest trends, brands, and influencers. This shift in behavior demands a complete overhaul of marketing strategies.

Gen Z craves authenticity. They can spot a disingenuous marketing campaign a mile away. They connect with brands that have a clear purpose, strong values, and a commitment to social responsibility. Gone are the days of heavily produced commercials with unrealistic portrayals. Gen Z responds to user-generated content, influencer partnerships, and brands that take a stand on issues they care about.

Forget celebrity endorsements. Gen Z trusts the opinions of their peers more than A-list stars. Micro-influencers with smaller, highly engaged followings are the new marketing heroes. They create relatable content that resonates with their audience and feels less like advertising and more like a genuine recommendation from a friend.

UGC is the lifeblood of social media. Gen Z trusts content created by real people more than anything a brand can produce. Savvy marketers are leveraging this by encouraging user-generated content through interactive campaigns, contests, and challenges. This UGC not only promotes the brand but also fosters a sense of community and belonging.

The rise of platforms like Snapchat and Instagram Stories highlights Gen Zs preference for short-form, disappearing content. This presents a unique opportunity for marketers to create engaging, bite-sized content that captures attention in the fleeting moments of a social media scroll.

AI marketing tools can be a game-changer for reaching Gen Z. Heres how:

The Future of Marketing: A Conversation, Not a Broadcast

Marketing to Gen Z is about building a conversation, not just broadcasting a message. Heres what this means:

Gen Z is a generation that demands more from brands. They are the informed consumers of the future, and marketers who embrace social media, prioritize authenticity, and leverage AI tools will be the ones who win their hearts (and wallets). By understanding their preferences and creating engaging experiences within the social media ecosystem, brands can redefine marketing for a new era. Its not just about selling products anymore; its about building genuine connections and becoming a trusted part of the Gen Z social experience.

(The author is Venugopal Ganganna, CEO, Langoor Digital, and the views expressed in this article are his own)

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Gen Z is turning traditional marketing on its head, making social media their primary marketplace, entertainment hub ... - CXOToday.com