Let’s face it. Getting the younger generation to notice your business can feel like trying to hit a moving target in the dark. But don’t sweat it! This blog is about to dish out five killer strategies that’ll have the youth flocking to your brand.
1. The Power of the ‘Gram
If you’re not on Instagram, you’re too far behind. By “‘Gram”, we don’t mean just Instagram (if that makes any sense). The youth of today practically breathe social media. These platforms are where you can step up your game. But here’s the kicker – don’t just post boring product shots. Today’s youth have seen it all. Pretty much. But they appreciate creativity and uniqueness. For instance, a social media photo contest for the younger demographic in which they get to post their photos in the wildest locations they can think of. That’s crazy and creative enough to get their attention.
2. Collab or Collapse
Young people also love authenticity. They have this innate sense to identify a phony from a mile away. So, instead of trying to be “hip” , why not team up with someone who’s already got street cred? We know the youth voluntarily or involuntarily follow certain people. Some of those famous people are who we call Youth Icons. If your brand can collaborate with one such icon that vibes with your brand, you can have your younger audience feel the vibe.
Creatively-designed promotional items can help here. A custom hat designed in collaboration with the icon, promoting the hat as an exclusive merchandise, and encouraging the audience to flaunt the hats is what you should be looking into. For starters, I’d suggest getting a couple dozen snapback hats wholesale (because they love snapbacks and you won’t break the bank with a wholesale purchase). If this icon is a local talent, you get bonus points for this support.
3. Tech it to the Limit
Something else that the youth love to explore is tech. They love experiences, and a few new tech are all about revolutionizing user experiences. Augmented Reality (AR) for one. It’s blowing up, and your brand can get in on the action. I’ve recently come across a cool idea where a local brand used AR filters that lets users virtually explore products. Maybe even try it on (virtually, of course). It’s safe to assume that many of them are definitely going to snap a pic and share it with friends.
4. Cause a Scene (In a Good Way)
Young folks are full of energy. Some of them spent a lot of energy fighting for something or working for a cause. It’s part of being “authentic” in their language. That’s how they discover their identity and what they can do. Young people stuff, am I right? Anyway, they care about social/environmental/equality issues, and more for sure.
If your brand shows you care too and support them, you can get into their good books easily. For every transaction with your business, you can promise to plant a tree or donate a part of the profits to a youth-focused charity.
This has worked for a lot of businesses in the USA.
5. Surprise!!!
The element of surprise. Young people love those. Surprise young customers visiting your store with freebies and encourage them to check out the “selfie-booth”. You can be direct too, like directly asking them to support the brand if they loved the experience. This “surprise” idea can go on the road too. The youth generally don’t have this “Fear of Missing Out” unless they are being offered something of high perceived value.
Well, that’s it – five ways to make your business stand out to the younger crowd. Be authentic, creative, and just a little bit daring with these and you’ll certainly see a positive impact. Give these ideas a whirl. And let me know if you have more or better tricks to do this.