Marketing to Gen Z in 2025: 8 Successful Tips

Marketing to Gen Z in 2025 requires a fresh approach. This generation, born between 1997 and 2012, has unique preferences shaped by digital technology, social values, and a fast-paced online culture. With a global spending power projected to exceed $12 trillion by 2030, businesses cannot afford to overlook this demographic.

Here’s a detailed guide to effectively reach and engage Gen Z.

1. Mobile-First Strategies

Gen Z is glued to their smartphones. They use them for shopping, socializing, and consuming content. Around 75% of this group accesses the internet primarily through mobile devices.

How to engage them:

Optimize websites for mobile. Ensure fast loading speeds and easy navigation.

Focus on short-form video platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube Shorts.

Use interactive content such as polls, quizzes, and AR filters.

Brands like Sephora excel in mobile-first strategies with AR tools that allow customers to try products virtually.

2. Dominate Social Media

Social media is Gen Z’s playground. It’s where they find trends, products, and inspiration. Platforms like TikTok and Instagram are central to their online lives.

Tips for success:

Create visually compelling content that tells a story.

Collaborate with influencers, especially micro-influencers, for authenticity.

Stay updated with platform-specific trends like TikTok challenges.

Use hashtags strategically to make your brand discoverable. For instance, the #DuolingoTakesTikTok campaign went viral by blending humor with educational content.

3. Show Your Values

Gen Z cares about what your brand stands for. They prioritize sustainability, diversity, and social impact. About 75% of them are more likely to buy from a brand that shares their values.

What to do:

Share stories about ethical sourcing and sustainability practices.

Highlight diversity in your campaigns. Show representation in product offerings and advertisements.

Support causes like mental health awareness or climate change.

Patagonia sets a great example by actively supporting environmental causes and showcasing their commitment to sustainability.

4. Use User-Generated Content (UGC)

UGC is powerful. It’s relatable, authentic, and trusted by Gen Z. They value real experiences over polished ads.

How to incorporate UGC:

Encourage customers to share photos and videos of your products.

Create branded hashtags to collect and promote UGC.

Reward contributors with discounts, features on your page, or exclusive offers.

Brands like Glossier thrive on UGC, using real customer photos to build trust and showcase product effectiveness.

5. Be Entertaining

Humor is a key ingredient for connecting with Gen Z. They enjoy light-hearted, fun content that resonates with their interests and online culture.

How to use humor effectively:

Post memes that align with your brand voice.

Participate in viral trends and challenges.

Use relatable and funny short videos to catch attention.

For example, Wendy’s social media campaigns are known for their witty, sarcastic tone, which keeps Gen Z engaged.

6. Offer Personalization

Gen Z expects personalized experiences. They want products, ads, and recommendations tailored to their preferences.

Steps to personalize marketing:

Use data to deliver targeted ads based on browsing behavior.

Offer customizable products or services.

Use AI to create personalized shopping recommendations.

Spotify’s Wrapped campaign is a hit every year because it gives users a personal snapshot of their listening habits.

7. Leverage Technology

Gen Z loves technology. They’re early adopters of innovations like AR, VR, and AI. Use these tools to create immersive experiences.

Ideas to try:

Add AR filters for virtual product trials.

Use AI chatbots for instant customer service.

Experiment with VR for unique brand experiences.

IKEA’s AR app lets users visualize furniture in their homes, providing a seamless shopping experience Gen Z appreciates.

8. Focus on Quick, Digestible Content

Attention spans are short. Gen Z prefers bite-sized content they can consume on the go.

Tips for content creation:

Use short videos under 60 seconds.

Break down long articles into quick, scannable sections.

Use infographics and visuals to share information.

Platforms like TikTok have redefined how brands present content, making brevity key to capturing attention.

Conclusion

Marketing to Gen Z in 2025 demands creativity, authenticity, and a deep understanding of their values. Optimize for mobile, engage them on social media, and showcase your brand’s ethics. By combining humor, personalization, and technology, your brand can build lasting connections with this influential generation. Start crafting campaigns today to win the loyalty of Gen Z and secure your brand’s future.