The Gen Z Effect: Redefining Social Commerce in the Era of “Digital Natives”

(This Blog I have written this for my client “Blaash.io” on eCommerce brands.)

Say goodbye to the days of mindlessly scrolling through an endless stream of hilarious memes and adorable animal pictures without the option to buy them. Social commerce has swooped in and said, “Hold my virtual shopping cart!”

Hey there! Let’s take a plunge into the world of social commerce, where shopping meets social media in the most entertaining way possible. Imagine this: You’re casually scrolling through your favourite social media platform, having a good laugh at hilarious cat videos, and suddenly, something catches your eye — a pair of shoes that you absolutely must have!

Social commerce is like a match made in heaven between online shopping and social media. It’s a fantastic combo that lets you discover products, connect with brands, and make purchases — all while immersing yourself in the fun and engaging world of your social feeds. It’s like having retail therapy and entertainment wrapped into one awesome package.

Retailers and eCommerce brands are still scratching their heads trying to figure out how to appeal to Gen Z,

The generation that ranges from 7 to 22 years old and wields a spending power of $143 billion. That’s a lot of pocket money!

Now, let’s find out why Gen Z is head over heels for social commerce.

One word: Relatability

Gen Z craves authenticity and connections, and they want their online shopping experience to reflect that. Social commerce platforms offer a unique opportunity for brands to showcase their products in a fun and engaging way

They might stumble upon a heartwarming ad campaign that brings tears to their eyes or a video testimonial from someone who genuinely benefited from a particular product, all presented in a lighthearted and relatable manner. These emotional touches transform the shopping experience into something more than just a transaction. They create a sense of connection, empathy, and understanding between Gen Z and the brands they engage with.

With their quick wit and emotional intelligence, Gen Z has embraced social commerce as a way to find products that not only make them laugh but also resonate with their unique needs and preferences. They appreciate personalized marketing and applaud brands that take the time to understand them.Guess what?

Social media platforms are morphing into shopping destinations.

Gen Z consumers are all in when it comes to social commerce, with research showing that a whopping 54% of them have made a purchase directly through social media. They see these platforms as an extension of their social lives, where they can effortleassly discover and buy products without leaving the app. It’s like having a shopping mall right in the palm of their hands!

One of the reasons social commerce has become a hit among Gen Z is the sense of community it fosters. Social media platforms are inherently social, and social commerce allows consumers to engage with brands and fellow users in a more meaningful way. By sharing their purchases on social media, consumers can influence their friends and followers, creating a ripple effect that leads to increased sales for brands. It’s like a virtual shopping party!

Social media has revolutionized the way brands interact with consumers, especially with Gen Z shoppers. Thanks to platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok, brands now have a direct line of communication with their target audience. But with great power comes great responsibility. Brands are under constant scrutiny, and consumers expect transparency, authenticity, and social responsibility.

Gen Z consumers want to see the real people behind the brand and follow those that align with their values and beliefs. They are more likely to support environmentally conscious and socially responsible brands that take a stand on important issues. Building trust and loyalty with Gen Z means being transparent, authentic, and socially responsible.

In a world where social media influencers hold more sway than traditional advertising, brands need to be strategic in building brand loyalty and trust. Gen Z consumers, in particular, have high expectations of brands on social media. They demand personalized experiences, customized recommendations, and genuine influencer partnerships that align with their values.

Price sensitivity is a real thing for Gen Z.

Despite having more purchasing power, they are more price-conscious due to economic uncertainties. They love a good deal and are always on the lookout for sales and discounts. So if you want to catch their attention, offer competitive prices and tempting discounts.

Convenience is key for Gen Z. They value efficiency and promptness. Fast and reliable delivery options, easy returns, and seamless customer service are non-negotiable if you want to win them over.

For Generation Z, speed is everything. They’re impulse purchasers, with nearly 60% admitting to making non-planned purchases in the heat of the moment. In the era of fast fashion, Gen Z shoppers expect the latest styles to be available instantly, and they’ll choose the brand that can deliver the fastest. To keep up, retail content has to move at lightning speed, and reactive content strategies work like magic.

So, How can you attract Gen Z customers? Let’s dive into some quirky tips!

User-Generated Content

Gen Zers trust real customers more than paid spokespeople. Encourage your customers to share their experiences with your product through photos and videos. Remember, they want to hear from real people, not just fancy endorsements.

Short Video Content

Gen Z loves videos, especially on social media apps like Snapchat, TikTok, and Instagram. Keep your content engaging, fun, and to the point. In addition to creating engaging videos, another effective strategy to attract Gen Z is by incorporating shoppable videos and web stories.

Shoppable videos allow viewers to make purchases directly from the video, while web stories combine images, videos, and text to create an immersive experience. These interactive formats make it easier for Gen Z to shop while being entertained. By integrating shoppable videos and web stories, you can capture their attention and increase the likelihood of converting interest into sales.

Partner with Influencers

Nano and micro-influencers have a more engaged following and higher trust levels. They create personal relationships with their followers and have the highest engagement rates. Plus, they charge less than the big shots, so it’s a win-win!

As you adapt your business to the younger generation, think about how you can be more open about supporting important causes. Rethink your video content and consider collaborating with micro-influencers who have solid ties to Gen Z. It’s all about keeping it real and building a genuine connection.

What’s Next For You?

So, there you have it — some quirky strategies to capture the hearts of Gen Z. Remember, they’re a unique bunch with short attention spans, a love for all things digital, and a deep appreciation for authenticity. Now, go out there and show them that your brand is the bee’s knees!

If you want a solution that can drive sales through your existing video, speak with our solution advisor today. Blaash is a complete DIY platform that enables you to create digital products and drive sales with a shoppable video feature. Blaash’s digital product shop will increase conversion rate, reduce return rates and enhance your product pages by adding dynamic content that keeps users engaged, entertained, or educated.

Our platform offers a wide range of tools and features that can streamline your workflow and help you achieve your business goals. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn more about how Blassh can help you — book your demo today!