The millennial generation, loosely defined as individuals born between 1981 and 1996, seem to always be the topic of conversation these days. This comes as no surprise considering that they are on track to be the largest generation in the United States by 2019. With an estimated purchasing power of $200 Billion per year, they are an extremely important market. Everyone is trying to anticipate their next move and come up with a way to sell their product to millennials. As the year is coming to an end, it is crucial to have a marketing plan ready to go. To help you out we have compiled some of our best tips and tricks for navigating the millennial consumer.
Build a Connection With The Millennial Consumer
In today’s fast paced market, it is not just enough to sell to millennials, you need to build a connection with them. Take some time to learn about this audience as a whole and the values they hold. We know that this generation is strong in their social media presence, but what about their lifestyle? The millennial consumer want a product with a value that they can trust day in and day out. They are some of the most educated and conscious buyers because they are constantly thinking of the bigger picture.
Mirror Reflection
People don’t want to have to adjust a product to fit their lifestyle, rather, they want to purchase items that reflect the values they already have. In order to appeal to the millennial generation, marketers need to think about the two-way effect that their advertisements have. It is important to meet their demands and take into account how your product will affect their lives. Incorporate videography, testimonials, or collaborate with influencers to give your brand an edge.
Embrace the Tech
Millennials are surrounded by technology in almost every aspects of their lives. Instead of fighting this, embrace it in your marketing strategy! Give a nod to current technological trends and put a modern spin on your message. A simple way to do this is by making sure that your content display neatly on mobile devices. Over half of mobile users will leave your site if it takes more than 3 seconds to load or is not easily navigable from their device. Millennials also love a visual ad experience! Show them the benefits of investing in your product rather than a wordy description and you will lock them in.
What is UGC Anyway?
UGC, otherwise known as User Generated Content, is an incredibly effective way to reach the millennial market. This trend uses testimonials from real-world customers to influence other consumers to purchase it as well. Encouraging people to leave reviews, displaying their photographs, and featuring social shares in your advertising campaign are some great ways to increase UGC impact. This generation wants to be inspired, why not use your current customers to influence new ones?
Reputation is Everything
Living in the information era enables consumers to be extremely well-informed on everything from current events, to celebrity news, and even the companies they purchase from every day. Therefore, they are better at identifying insincerity in a brand (and will tell their friends). Be genuine about the product you offer and the causes you support, and your customers will be loyal followers. Many companies have taken a stance regarding environmental activism, charities, and other various ethical causes. These are the types of things that get the millennial generation excited, and makes them want to share your product with others. As our population grows larger and even more connected, be ready to grow alongside it. Be inclusive and work with young people to develop a campaign that appeals to your target audience.
Own It
No matter how you brand yourself, whether it be modern, minimalist, bold, quirky, or comedic, the most important thing is to stick by it. Keep your personality consistent on all forms of media and advertising. The millennial generation is a force to be reckoned with. Soon predicted to surpass baby boomers as the largest living generation in the United States. Distance yourself from the large corporations that millennials have been taught to be wary of, and advertise a great quality at an affordable price. If you’re able to lock in the millennial generation, your brand will have a loyal following for many years to come.
