Combining unique preferences, resentment and rebellious tendencies, and elaborate priorities, marketing to Generation X is quite a difficult task. Here are 6 rules of marketing to Generation X. Don't recycle the past. Generation X knows many popular marketing strategies that have worked for Baby Boomers. Gen X knows what has been used already, and in turn know what is a new and exciting way to grab their attention.  What's "In" may not be in with Gen X. This group is attracted to what is affordable and of great quality. Trends which don't break the bank are the ones that Gen X will lean towards. An example of well marketed trends to Gen X include the "Going Green" effort. Gen X is highly concerned about the environment and will try green trends. "Hard selling" is poor selling. Generation X finds "hard selling" harsh, rude, and obnoxious. They are turned off by this sales method. If you are going to pitch to Gen X... [Read Full Article]

Tips from December 18, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation X via email newsletters. Newsletters sent via email make life easier for Generation X. These are easy to read, quick to click through, and (should) provide great deals or information accessible immediately. Getting an email with a promo code or deal and online shopping is simple and quick for Gen X. They like to multi-task and would rather see and buy rather than wait around for it. Think about this strategy when you send out newsletters. Make sure your deals, coupons, or promo codes are available and easily seen. Getting people to click through also makes it all trackable for you! Newsletters have the ability to make Gen Xers feel individually important. Although thousands of other people are receiving the same newsletter, different data like their name or location can be added dynamically to bring that forward. Make them feel special. Genera... [Read Full Article]

Tips from the evening of December 17, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation X via word of mouth. Generation X values individualism, but also what other people are doing/thinking. They will see a trend, and make a snap decision on it.  Values and opinions mean a lot to Generation X, in terms of quality and use. They especially value good prices, a great product with quality, and long term use to get their money's worth. They value others' experiences with products and will make decisions on what others have said. Gen X varies VERY differently from Baby Boomers culturally, economically, and financially. ACKNOWLEDGE this. Grouping them with their elders will only cause Gen X to automatically turn their shoulder. Product reviews are KEY for Generation Xers. They check them, post to them, and follow religiously. Create a great product or provide a great service and you will have something to show fo... [Read Full Article]

Tips from the morning of December 17, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation X via print marketing. Generation X has the highest subscription and readership of periodicals (Time, Newsweek, People, Details, Spin). Advertisements in these types of publishings are seen by a majority of Gen X. Generation X is also credited with building the market of small and local newspapers. They are interested with what is going around them. Keep in mind, advertising in this type of paper hits locally and is cheaper.  Movie lists, entertainment guides, and personal ads are favorites in print media for Generation X. They prefer short & concise writing. Keep this in mind. Place advertisements accordingly (at the end of short articles). Growing up with the technological revolution, Generation X embraces mass media. They will turn to print media, but as time and technology grows, be warned: they will jump ship and u... [Read Full Article]

Tips from December 16, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation X via mainstream media. Generation Xers are generally more open to new ideas, products or at least trying new things during TV pilot episodes. They are apt to seeing new things, and it will add to their sense of learning more about their world. Gen Xers multi-task: if they see or hear an advertisement on TV or radio they're likely to research immediately on computer or mobile device. List websites, and repeat the phone number and business name multiple times. Newspaper websites are better than the paper to reach Generation X. They grew up with the technology put out for the masses and adapt quickly. Press releases or stories about you will be noticed by Generation X because they cater to the individual rather than the entire group. Be newsworthy! Podcasts and blogs are a great medium to use as Generation X relies on them for information an... [Read Full Article]

Tips from December 14, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Generation X via social media. Use social media to promote a new product. Gen X is open to trying new things and value new opportunities, and they will respond the best to free trials. Facebook fan pages need to be communicating with your fans, offering value and at a pace that isn't too intrusive. Gen Xers don't want to be annoyed with pointless and/or excessive updates. You also don't be silent. Find a happy medium. Gen X is also active on Twitter. Tweet trivia to your followers and have a prize, such as a free gift or discounted coupons, to give to the first, correct or creative replies. Write a blog. If you don't have one on your website or don't know how, sign up with a free service like Blogger. Be sure to give your potential readers a way to share your stuff, too. Have the [Read Full Article]