
It seems appropriate to discuss how Social Media is targeting Gen X’ers since I am celebrating a milestone birthday this month. We often hear business owners saying that social media marketing is not for them, or that their customers don’t use social media, only the Millennials use social.
I call bullshit.
I am 50 years old today. Yep, a half of century old, as one of my dear friend’s pointed out this weekend. I have heard a lot of references, Nifty Fifty, 50 is the new 30, Fifty and Fabulous, and so on. So, where does a 50 year old single mother of two fabulous boys and partner in a rapidly growing marketing agency fit into Social Media for the business owners we speak to on a daily basis?
Let’s look at the stats: I am educated, I own my own home, my credit score sits in the “very good” category, I have a healthy financial portfolio, I am in good health, I am social and have a decent amount of disposable income. Coupled with these ‘census demographics’, I seek out new information daily, I love an adventure and enjoy trying new things. Clearly, these attributes describe a large majority of people my age, right? I’m certainly not a unicorn. So, what does this data mean to a business owner? My generation is a prime target for additional ROI. The beautiful thing about Social Media marketing to my generation is that it is very cost effective, very targetable, timely and measurable.
About 45 days prior to my birthday, my Facebook newsfeed started to serve ‘Happy Birthday’ messages from AARP. I will admit, initially, I gasped. AARP? Really? But, guess what? AARP has done a serious amount of research and has it nailed. Check this out in just the technology category:
Adults age 50-59 are the most technologically savvy of the 50+
61% of adults age 50-59 own smartphones
40% own tablets
75% access social media on computers/laptops
69% access social media on their mobile devices
30% video chat to stay in touch with family and friends
Sources: AARP Attitude, Trend and Opinion Monitor
In conclusion, if you own a small to medium local business, you are missing the boat on tremendous revenue if Social Media isn’t part of your marketing portfolio. If you would like to explore opportunities for your business, g2 media pros can lead the way.
As I celebrate this milestone birthday, I like to align myself with Sally O’Malley from SNL – “I can kick, I can stretch and I’m 50!”