Gen-Xers( 1965 – 1980)

Social media use by generation X is determined by its practicality. Polls, recommendations, educational content, tools, and practical advice resonate strongest with gen-Xers. This is a generation dedicated to organizing and solving life problems using social media tools. Social Media Today reports that about forty-two per cent of gen-Xers use social media to research products before buying.

Much like the baby boomers, generation X is found heavily on Facebook and YouTube and is a very fast-growing population on Instagram and TikTok.

Millennials( 1981 – 1996)

Millennials were the first generation to make Facebook cool( and yes, I was one of them). But over time, millennials have found their way to almost every social media platform available, from Facebook, to Instagram, to TikTok— and more. Millenials are quick to adopt new platforms, remain on them for longer, and are less likely to abandon a social media platform once they start using it on a regular basis.

Millennials have their heaviest presence on Instagram and YouTube and are drawn heavily to visual communications, but there is also a large rise in millennials using LinkedIn to grow their professional networks. This past year, LinkedIn broke the one-billion users threshold.

Gen-Zs( 1997 – 2012)

This generation is almost completely defined by TikTok. According to data from Sprout Social, almost eighty-two per cent of gen-Zs use TikTok regularly! Not only are gen-Zs the largest consumers of content on this platform, they are also the main drivers of content creation.

Generation Z is looking for individuality, creativity, and speed, and TikTok content creators are fine-tuning their work to keep gen-Z users engaged and connected.

Though many gen-Zs are also using Instagram and YouTube, TikTok is the platform for this generation. The power and role of influencers and content creators is redefining how we engage with ideas, trends, and news.

So, What Does All This Mean?

ARTA members are lifelong learners, which means staying up-to-date with how different generations interact with each other online.

Each generation brings its own unique flavour and flair to the social media universe.

Understanding how different generations use these platforms isn’ t just trivia, it also helps us relate to and communicate with friends, family, and community. It is about building connections and continuing to grow together in a digital space.

Think Before You Click

If it seems too good to be true, it probably is. Don’ t click on suspicious links or provide personal information to anyone.

Update Your Privacy Settings

Review who can see your posts, send you messages, and tag you. Sometimes these settings reset, so check in every few months.

Use Strong Passwords

Mix numbers, symbols, and uppercase / lowercase letters, and use a password manager.

Be Wary of Scams

Scams can be very sophisticated. If someone claims to be your grandchild asking for money, double-check with a phone call.

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