Generations and technology
Every generation has a set of characteristics that set them apart from each other. Millennials are often coined with the self-expressive and liberal characteristics while baby boomers are known to be independent and competitive. Each generation interacts with technology differently. Here is a high-level description of each:
Generation Z/ Centennials
Generation Z was pretty much born with a smartphone in their face. They are the first generation who have had social media since birth. Even though they have lived their lives through a screen, Gen Z prefers videos to texts making Snapchat, Instagram and FaceTime their go to social channels.
Millennials/ Generation Y
This generation was the first to grow up with in hand technology. Millennials prefer communication through text on smartphones than on a phone call. 72% of this generation is on Facebook. Overall, millennials check social media between 20-21 hours each month. On top of the heavy social usage, millennials use technology for getting the best deals. Millennials won’t waste their time clipping coupons like their parents, they will simply download an app.
Generation X
Although Millennials often get the wrath for being smartphone obsessed, a 2017 Nielsen report shows that Gen X actually spends more time on social media a week than the younger generation. Ages 35-49 spend an average of almost 7 hours whereas Millennials spend closer to 6 hours a week.
Baby Boomers
This generation grew up prior to smartphones with landlines, radios and television but that doesn’t mean they haven’t adapted. Baby Boomers have joined the social media bandwagon with 82.3% of the generation belonging to some social media site. However, there is a small chance they are on Twitter or Instagram.
Instead of using social media and technology for connecting with others, this generation uses it for finding more information. They are also known to share more political content than younger generations.
These are just a few tips for when you communicate with other generations, including your own. Do you fit with your generational definition? Let us know in the comments below!
