We’re not saying Gen Z has the attention span of a goldfish… but if your content isn’t thumb-stopping in 3 seconds or less, you’re toast.
This digital generation grew up on TikTok, memes, and creators who serve value in under 15 seconds, so if you want their time, you better make it worth it.
Let’s unpack what actually works (and what’s just noise) when it comes to marketing to Gen Z online.
Stop the scroll (literally)
Gen Z doesn't browse the internet, they scroll it. If your post doesn’t grab their attention instantly, they’re already on to the next.
Think:
- Bold visuals
- Relatable hooks ("POV: you're a brand trying to go viral")
- Text that talks like them, not at them
Your goal? Show you get it.
Keep it snackable
Long paragraphs? Block text? Overexplaining? Hard pass.
Break it up. Make it easy to digest. Give value fast.
Try:
- Carousels on LinkedIn & Instagram
- Short-form videos
- Bullet points (like this!)
Gen Z will read long-form content only if it's well-formatted, hyper-relevant, and written like a human.
Be real (and not the app)
Authenticity isn’t a buzzword to Gen Z, it’s a baseline. This is the generation that can spot performative marketing from a mile away.
So skip the perfectly polished brand voice. Instead, opt for:
- Behind-the-scenes content
- User-generated posts
- Real humans behind your socials
If it sounds like it came from a boardroom, it’s already lost them.
Platform matters
What works on LinkedIn isn’t going to fly on TikTok, and Gen Z knows when content has been repurposed without care.
Quick breakdown:
- TikTok & Reels: fast edits, trends, humour, filters
- Instagram Stories: polls, quizzes, quick updates
- LinkedIn: punchy carousels, career humour, shareable inspo
- YouTube Shorts: educational or entertaining (quickfire format wins)
Meet them where they are, not where you wish they were.
Give them something to do
Engagement isn't just likes and comments, it's action. Gen Z loves to:
- Save posts
- Share to stories
- Duet or remix content
- Vote in polls
- Join the conversation
Your CTA needs to be irresistible (and feel like it was made just for them).
Final thought:
Gen Z is switched-on, creative, and allergic to boring. They know what they want online — and it sure isn’t another "Look at us, we're so innovative" brand campaign.
So what does it take to win their attention? Be sharp. Be honest. Be human.
Need help making your content Gen Z-ready?
We do it daily. Let's talk (no cringe DMs required).
