Videos and Gen Zs - a marketer’s guide

Gen Z, or Generation Z, is the generation born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s. They are the first generation to grow up with the internet and social media, and they are constantly bombarded with images and videos. This has had a profound impact on their way of thinking and learning.

Adding videos to your strategy can have a significant impact. This generation is the first to grow up with the internet and social media. They are constantly exposed to a barrage of images and videos, which shape their way of thinking and learning. In this guide, we will explore how videos influence Gen Zs' communication and provide you with valuable insights to effectively leverage this medium and engage with this generation.

First, some statistics…

• 92% of Gen Zs watch videos online every day.

• 72% of Gen Zs say they are more likely to buy a product if they have seen a video about it.

• 54% of Gen Zs say they have been influenced by a video to make a purchase decision.

• 46% of Gen Zs say they have shared a video with a friend or family member because they thought it was funny or interesting.

• 38% of Gen Zs say they have learned something new from a video.

Videos possess a captivating allure that captures the attention of Gen Zs and allows for a deeper connection. It is imperative to recognize the influence videos have on this generation and harness their power to achieve marketing success. Let's delve into 3 ways in which videos impact Gen Zs' communication and explore strategies that will help you connect with this generation effectively.

1. Enhanced Engagement and Interaction

Engagement is the key! Videos excel at capturing Gen Zs' attention. With their dynamic and visually appealing nature, videos offer an immersive experience that resonates deeply with this generation. As a marketer, you have the opportunity to incorporate interactive elements such as polls, quizzes, and user-generated content into your videos. By encouraging Gen Zs to actively participate in your video content, you foster a sense of involvement and build brand affinity.

2. Visual Storytelling and Authenticity

Authenticity and relatability are highly valued by Gen Zs! Videos provide an excellent platform to convey these qualities. As a marketer, you can leverage visual storytelling techniques to create compelling narratives that resonate with this generation. By showcasing real-life stories, diverse representations, and genuine emotions, you establish an authentic connection with Gen Z viewers. This not only enhances your brand credibility but also fosters long-term loyalty. (ad break: ask us about our original content!)

3. Social Media Amplification

To effectively target Gen Zs, it is crucial to meet them where they spend most of their time: social media platforms. Videos thrive in the social media landscape, offering you a unique opportunity to amplify your brand message. Platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram are popular among Gen Zs, providing a vast audience base ready to engage with video content. By optimizing your videos for these platforms, tailoring the content to suit their preferences, and leveraging relevant hashtags and trends, you can maximize the reach and impact of your marketing efforts.

Now that we understand the significance of videos in Gen Z communication, let's explore 5 actionable tips to effectively utilize videos and connect with this generation:

1. Keep it Short and Snappy

Gen Zs have shorter attention spans, so it is crucial to create videos that are concise and get straight to the point. Grab their attention within the first few seconds and deliver your message in a clear and engaging manner. Remember, brevity is key!

2. Showcase Authenticity

Authenticity is paramount when marketing to Gen Zs. They value transparency and genuineness in brand interactions. Use videos to showcase the real side of your brand, including real people, real stories, and real experiences. Be authentic, relatable, and true to your brand values.

3. Incorporate Interactive Elements

Gen Zs crave interactivity and enjoy being active participants in content. Integrate interactive elements into your videos, such as clickable annotations, quizzes, or calls to action that encourage viewers to engage with your brand. By involving them in the experience, you create a stronger connection and increase the likelihood of them sharing your content.

4. Optimize for Mobile Viewing

Gen Zs are digital natives and rely heavily on their mobile devices. Ensure your videos are optimized for mobile viewing by using responsive design, legible text, and clear visuals. Test your videos across various devices to ensure a seamless viewing experience on smartphones and tablets.

5. Collaborate with Influencers

Influencer marketing is a powerful strategy to reach Gen Zs. Collaborate with influencers who have a significant following among this generation and align with your brand values. By partnering with influencers, you can tap into their authenticity and leverage their influence to connect with Gen Zs on a more personal level.

Videos have become a powerful tool for marketers to effectively communicate and engage with Gen Z. By understanding the impact of videos on Gen Zs' communication preferences and implementing the strategies, you can create compelling video content that captures their attention, builds trust, and fosters long-lasting relationships. Embrace the power of videos and unlock the full potential of your marketing campaigns in the Gen Z era.