Gen Z, people born between 1997 and 2012, is the first generation that was born with social media and digital devices. This is what we call “digital natives” nowadays Generation Z runs away.
This generation brought about many changes, especially related to the impact of social media, cell phones, and artificial intelligence, with both positive and negative consequences.
But the fact that no one can deny is that digital natives are shaping the ways in which business is done and, in consequence, what effective web design is.
Think about it: it is extremely important that businesses have a “digital face” today. In a world where the main consumers are individuals spending around 4 hours a day on the screen, you cannot ignore a functional web design and a strong digital presence.
If you have a traditional website, bad news for you: Generation Z users will run away from it. The consuming and navigation habits of this generation are pretty different and, whether you like it or not, they are rewriting the rules for doing business.
But fear not! A Chicago web development company will guide us through these key points to understand how to earn the sympathy of Gen Z and create an effective website that works for both your brand and the consumers of this new generation.
Social Media Matters
It is not surprising that Gen Z values social media and spends most of their time online on platforms like YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok.
It is worth noticing that around 40% of this audience uses social media instead of search engines to discover products, compare brands, and get information.
Studies and reports confirm that online users of this generation make purchase decisions based on content available on social platforms. Haul videos, product reviews, and “Get Ready With Me” are examples of content associated with higher purchase rates Generation Z runs away.
Why is this important? Because if you have a business and you want to sell, users need to find you immediately on social media.
Do not underestimate the power of a website connected to social media, and enhanced content that clearly shows your product and the solution you offer.
No Patience and Less Attention Time
Gen Z users have reduced attention spans, studies suggest it’s up to 8 seconds, and their patience is almost nonexistent.
The immediate consequence of this behaviour is that immediate content has more value for them. If you want your users to read about your business through extremely long paragraphs, you will scare them immediately.
Including content in a short video format is a good idea to get their attention and show them what you can offer. Consider visual elements and bullet points to make your content more scanable as well.
Moreover, consider the loading time of your page. If your site fails to load all the elements in less than 3 seconds, users will just leave. The website has to load fast on desktop and mobile versions as well, for users spend most of their time navigating on their phones now.
To keep Gen Zers engaged, make sure that your webpage is always easy to navigate and loads quickly, especially on mobile phones.
Authenticity at the Heart of Digital Experience
Forget about just “aesthetic”: Gen Z users value content that looks authentic and honest.
That’s why videos work so well. They show individuals testing products, talking about first-hand experiences, and relatable situations. This feels more real than a text full of carefully-selected words in that “marketing-ish” tone. That won’t convince anyone.
Speak in a conversational tone of Generation Z runs away to connect with this generation. Setting the tone as if you were having a conversation with them is the key to gaining their trust and securing conversions.
Show them real people talking about real problems. User-Created Content (UGC) and storytelling are some of the tools you can use to create relatable and honest content to get the attention of Gen Z.
The Challenge of Designing for Generation Z
If you have a business website and want to generate conversions, you cannot ignore Gen Z. The first step to creating a website that attracts them and offers value is understanding how users behave online and what drives them to purchase Generation Z runs away.
When designing a website for this generation, consider these points:
- Social media
- Fast-loading
- Easy navigationand clear information.
- Mobile experience
- Visual elementsand video
- Authentic content.
The bar of digital experience is high, for sure. But implementing this information about Gen Z’s expectations and behavior will help you improve your website and connect with the consumers of this new generation.
Continue your journey with explore more posts designed to expand your understanding.
