Explorers. Slackers. Service oriented. Self serving. Independent. Co-dependent.
Each has been used to describe Generation Y. However, is this really the case?
Yes and no.
Generations are defined by individuals. Not segments created by marketers and sociologists. Data removed from the voice, insight and personality of of a generation doesn't just make for bad reading. It's irresponsible. More so then any generation in the past we are in flux whether it be from the economy, relationships and the supposed "delayed adulthood" we are all experience.
But why take my word for it? After all, I'm one individual. I don't claim to speak for this generation (nor do I really want to). But, I do like the idea of our generation having a voice, rather than having words put in our mouths by marketers, researchers and TV writers.
And as a marketer I'm fascinated and intrigued with how we can have a voice with something as a simple as a blog, where personality and nuance are evident in each and every post.
So I’m excited to be part of a team launching The Next Great Generation (Beta Version). Working with Edward Boches, Christine Peterson and a few others at Mullen, we’re trying something new: a blog written by my generation but targeted at Edward’s generation.
We want to give an individualized voice to how the current generation thinks, acts, feels and relates to the world today. But, we want to ensure that the information provided by the writers isn't just valuable for their peers. We want this blog to become a periscope for marketers and brands looking to understand and dissect each and every part of this generation.
We totally understand that this is a presumptuous title, if not a little arrogant. However, I think that the gauntlet needs to be thrown down. This could fail magnificently. But guess what? In order to reach the stars you need to shoot for them.
The current category format for the blog looks something like this, With each category being assigned an editor and a staff of writers:
Brands
Life
Values
Work
Interview
Sound like something that you'd like to be involved in? We need writers from the ages of 18-25 to contribute on an ongoing basis. You don't have to be a writer. Whatever creative, administrative or resources that you can provide will be greatly appreciated. We're going to use the power of the crowd to make this thing rock. Can't wait to have you join us.
Sign up here to keep kicking ass.
Photo Credit: moonlightbulb
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tagged as generation y strengths, generation y weaknesses, marketing to generation y, millenial marketing, millenial social marketing, millenial voice, next great generation, two-way marketing
