We are often asked by clients “Do I really need to be on social media?” and the answer has always been yes! Social Media is essential when it comes to SEO, but it is also quickly becoming a primary shopping source for Generation Z. Many people thought that the millennial were the most tech savvy, but they are just scratching the surface compared to Gen Z that are getting jobs and spending their hard earned cash online now.
We have compiled a few different social articles touching on the importance of social media and things to know about Generation Z shoppers.
The Top 11 Generation Z Statistics
1. The Gen Z Population Is Forecasted To Reach 2.56 Billion By 2020
Generation Z is expected to reach 2.56 billion individuals globally by 2020. Within the US, Gen Z will reach 84.7 million by 2020, making up 24.7% of the American population. Gen Z is the third-largest age group in the US, lagging behind millennials and Gen X in terms of total numbers. This gap will likely not be closed for at least another 20 years. Currently, 1 in 5 Americans belongs to Generation Z.
2. 96% Of Generation Z Owns A Smartphone
Generation Z grew up with a smartphone, and it is estimated that 96% of Generation Z owns a smartphone. Breaking down younger Gen Z demographics, 68% of American 13-14 year olds own a smartphone and 76% of 15-17 year olds own a smartphone. Moreover, the importance of smartphones in Gen Z lives is reflected in generational attitude towards smartphone ownership. For instance, individuals in Gen Z are 4 times more likely than millennials to believe that age 13 is the appropriate age for a first smartphone.
3. 85% Of Gen Z Uses Social Media To Learn About New Products
Social media is one of the most powerful ways businesses can reach out to Gen Z consumers. Over 85% of Generation Z will learn about new products through social media and 69% will visit a store based on a retailer’s social media post. Opinions that Gen Zers get from their social networks are extremely powerful, influencing 8 out of 10 individuals to shop at a retailer they have never shopped at before. Finally, 83% of those in Gen Z will trust product information shared by other shoppers on social media more than advertising.
4. Almost Half Of Gen-Z Will Be Connected Online For 10 Or More Hours A Day
As digital natives, a majority of Generation Z will be connected online for at least 1 hour, and close to half are connected online for an incredible 10 hours a day. Total time spent online may be a result of the 5 screens available to Gen-Z, who use smartphones, TVs, laptops, desktops, and tablets simultaneously. Gen Z’s connection to the Internet impacts them emotionally, with nearly 80% feeling distress when kept away from personal electronic devices.
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Gen Z twice as influenced by social media as by deals
80% of Generation Z is influenced by social media when making purchase decisions.
Then factor in that Gen Z is twice as likely to convert on mobile as any other generation and that 80% of the generation is influenced by social media when making purchase decisions. An image of the generation as a mobile-heavy, social media-focused shopper begins to form. Despite this constant connectedness, though, Gen Z is picky about the brands it interacts with on the platform.
Gen Zers are not generally brand loyal, but when they do commit to a brand, it’s for very particular reasons. For example, if they feel the brand understands them as an individual (53%) or has an eco-friendly or socially-responsible brand message (56%), they want more brand interaction. But barring a good reason to shop there, Gen Z seems more willing to switch to a different retailer than previous generations.
If you have any questions on how to get on social media or how to connect with the Generation Z shoppers we would be happy to help!
Give us a call and lets schedule a consult.
