Capturing Millennials’ attention (and maybe their cash)
Although I am not particularly proud of the reputation my cohorts have earned the folks who fall into my age demographic, I am, indeed, a Millennial. If that makes you want to close out of this article and listen to a real grown-up talk, I get it.
But if you want to know a bit more about my generation and how we operate, stick around. The things you learn here and via Global Web Index might help you reach the elusive audience that has famously looked over your brand or business.
First up: Video
Video communication has become one of our top destinations online. Netflix, YouTube, Hulu, you name it. When trying to connect with us, remember how accessible and sharable videos are. You know, because I guess reading is just too much work for people my age.
The difference is that video is more objectively stimulating, and it’s easier for the consumer to digest than plain ol’ black-and-white. Besides, people read books to fall asleep, don’t they? Isn’t that what they’re for? (As a writer, it pains me to say any of this, but as a Millennial, I can attest to the sad truth in this statement.)
The value of entertainment
It is paramount to remember that in the world of advertising, your best bet is to entertain. A huge portion of Generation Y, and likely consumers in general, want to enjoy their ads. There’s no way we’ll be able to live through a whole day without encountering an onslaught of them. They’re unavoidable, and we know we have to put up with them.
But the only ones that really tend to make an impact are those that get a chuckle out of us. If I had a quarter for every time someone shared that Old Spice commercial with Terry Crews being all muscle-y and pumped, yelling about stuff, I’d have enough money to afford the steroids I’d need to take to rival his size.
Smartphones rule the day
Finally, with the birth of the smartphone has come the reliance on its technology. A staggering 84 percent of Millennials own a smartphone. Holy crap. Apps are a cool way to stay relevant, so keep up!
How many times have you seen a group of kids with their phones out while they’re watching TV or hanging out with their friends? This is called “second-screening,” and I must admit that a majority of us are guilty of this. We are glued to our cell phones, so use that to your advantage.
Major points: Videos are IMPORTANT. Entertainment is IMPORTANTER. Phones are IMPORTANTEST. Consider these things when you’re trying to tap into that fleeting Millennial market, and thank me later.
