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 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]

The Facts About the Generation According to the US Census, 77 million people were born in the Baby Boomer era. This fascinating group of Americans make up the largest group in our nation. In fact, an American turns 50 years old every 7 seconds, more than 12,500 people every day! This generation has experienced every historical, cultural and marketing trend and phenomenon of the past half century (think Billy Joel's "We Didn't Start the Fire" lyrics). This unique group of individuals have specific habits that define their generation. Let's take a closer look.For starters, Baby Boomers are wealthy. According to the U.S. Census and Federal Reserve, 78 million Americans who were 50 or older as of 2001 controlled 67% of the country's wealth, which equals to about $28 trillion dollars. Baby boomers were taught to save and spend money carefully, which they exercise to this day due to the economy. Finding great deals in the paper, cutting coupons, and not touching their savin... [Read Full Article]

Tips from December 7, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss marketing to Baby Boomers via social media. Facebook is a great channel for Baby Boomers. They're learning to reconnect with friends, family, and classmates online. Create a fan page, that is simple and user-friendly, for your business to target this generation. Baby Boomers are just starting to get into Twitter. They appreciate basic deals and information with a very simple way to find these deals. Make your tweets very clear to Baby Boomers that you are promoting a deal or special savings. Baby Boomers are influenced by viral campaigns. Create a channel for your business and put videos up on YouTube that Baby Boomers can relate to. Grasp their feelings about living life to the fullest and achieving their dreams. Be patient with Baby Boomers & social media. Make directions as simple as possible; they did not grow up with the technology and must adapt to it. [Read Full Article]

Tips from December 1, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss Generation X (currently late 20s - early 40s). Adjusting to the financial crisis is hard for Gen X. Their experiences in life have, so far, proven that if you work hard for something, you will receive positive results. During the recession, this is not the the case. They are not always reaping the benefits and are frustrated. Gen X will be employed but find themselves unhappy. Gen X likes to be original. Don't categorize or group them - treat them as valued individuals. Grouping them makes them feel their opinions and ideas aren't valued. They grew up alongside technology. They have had years of work experience with computers, and are involved in social media. Marketing to them via email campaigns and newsletters will catch their eye. Gen X values optimism and new opportunities. They are the audience who will most likely visit a new business, try a new product, or... [Read Full Article]

Tips from November 30, 2009 The Small Business tips today discuss dissecting various target audiences, specifically Baby Boomers (those born between 1945 and 1960). You can find baby boomers still in the workforce, even into their 50s and 60s because of the economic situation. Many are trying to live long and rich to fulfill their dreams, and are doing so by pushing back retirement. Target their work ethic and desire to retire. Communication is simple with the Baby Boomers. They are used to traditional types of communication, and generally use the phone and simple email. They are starting to understand and use technology, including social media and instant messenger. As these folks have lived through many historical, cultural, and economic situations in the past 50 years, the Baby Boomers know and appreciate the value of the dollar. They cut and save coupons they find in the newspaper and online. If you're printing coupons for your busin... [Read Full Article]