Baby Boomers. Gen X. Millennials. Gen Z. When it comes to internet usage, each label comes with their own set of stereotypes. Sure, younger generations like Millennials and Gen Z statistically go online more, but there’s an emerging cultural movement that is breaking up preconceived notions of age as a function of online activity, culminating in a new ‘generation’. Google calls it Generation C.
Who Is Gen C?
Think With Google describes Gen C as a group of individuals who create, curate and connect online. Rather than depending on a fixed age range, inclusion in Gen C results from one’s online behaviours. As such, while 65% of Gen C are under the age of 35, Gen C actually spans multiple generations (Think With Google).
What Drives Gen C?
Gen C are passionate online users who engage with content, communities and brands. They voraciously consume videos, articles, and any other content they can find online. They rapidly share, post, and send links to friends and followers. Since they’re practically living and breathing in virtual social spaces, 90% of them create their own content each month (Think With Google). To reach Gen C, businesses must approach them as ‘co-creators’ on social media, not just as the average consumer.
Why Connect With Gen C?
Whether their experience with a brand is good or bad, Gen C’s words resonate – and reverberate! – online. Companies must be ready to respond and connect, as Gen C tend to be the early adopters of digital content. This means they can be your best allies in making content go viral, thanks to their social influence and proficiency. They are also a great resource to better understand consumer habits.
How Should You Connect With Gen C?
Make no mistake, Gen C are not passive consumers begging for clever marketing. They create their own videos, blog posts, reviews, and photos. As avid Facebook, Pinterest, YouTube and Instagram users, chances are that Gen C are connecting with most brands already. But this doesn’t mean they’re participating in the two-way connection they seek. Gen C crave engaging content that makes them sit up and take notice. They want companies that feel authentic and approachable, which they can connect and interact with. To reach a Gen C audience, you’ll need to create content that is both share-worthy and entertaining and make sure you are cultivating a conversation with your Gen C followers.
Generation C may just be the early adopters you’ve been looking for. Age doesn’t matter, but finding customers who care about your online presence does. Creating the right content that Gen C will subscribe to, like, follow and view will successfully connect them with your company.
