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Gone are the days when social media is used to connect with long-distance friends and loved ones. It’s still used for that. But Gen Z has successfully tapped the endless possibilities that social media offers and, in turn, changed the way that brands, companies and people interact with one another.
In fact, for some, social media is their job. Influencers and brand representatives get paid to use social media while others use it to find jobs, read the news, learn new hobbies or to simply be entertained. So, whether the “older generation” wants to admit it or not, the apps are not going away. It’s more important now than ever to know and learn how to interact with younger generations through social media to grow your brand, whether that be personally or professionally.
Where should you even go to experience a professional connection or interaction with Gen Z? Well, basically anywhere online. But it’s important to strategize how you go about it and to know your audience.
LinkedIn is the first platform most think of when hearing “professional interaction.” It’s popular in its way to find jobs and connect with employers. It’s sort of an unspoken rule that you’re on your best behavior using this app and to put your best foot forward. Connecting through LinkedIn may not be the most popular or authentic way to connect with Gen Z, but you will be taken the most seriously here.
Twitter is another option, although a little trickier because the tone can be so varied throughout the app. Many of the younger generation uses Twitter as a news- and opinion-sharing platform. You will likely get a better sense of what they truly believe and value here. On the other hand, many people are not consciously using Twitter professionally. Therefore, you might find their pages to be unprofessional and without a dedicated purpose.
Facebook is likely the social media platform the most people are familiar and comfortable with. However, when trying to connect with Gen Z, there are better platforms, like TikTok. Sure, there are plenty of pointless and silly videos on the app, but 60 percent of TikTok’s users are Gen Z, according to data collected by Wallaroo Media. If you are connecting with the right ones, the newest social networking app can prove to have the biggest payoff.
If you are struggling to connect with or relate to the younger generation, try switching up your strategy. Maybe you were taking Twitter too seriously, or maybe you were overlooking TikTok. Regardless, you’ve already nailed the first step — wanting to connect!
Cassidy Gladieux is a Kent State University senior participating in Golf Course Industry’s internship program.
CLICK HERE to read our cover story about how Twitter changed the golf maintenance industry.