Does your marketing eat, slay, or cook?
Hey founders,
Gen Z commands $360 billion in purchasing power.
If you want to reach them, you have to speak their language.
This generation values authenticity, transparency, and social responsibility.
They’re known for supporting brands with aligned with their values and beliefs and steering clear of those without, making it challenging for brands to connect with this generation.
Gen Z is changing the marketing playbook.
If you’re a startup founder, these strategies can give your brand a real edge.
Here’s a breakdown of 5 Gen Z marketing strategies (with a few bonus strategies at the end) worth stealing for your own startup journey:
1. Be Real, Not Perfect
Gen Z can spot a polished sales pitch from a mile away.
What do they actually want?—Realness.
Gen Z is tired of the overly polished, flawless content.
They crave authenticity—brands that feel human.
How to do it:
Share behind-the-scenes moments, even if they’re a bit messy.
The story of “how it started vs. how it’s going” resonates, especially when you’re honest about the ups and downs.
Share your startup’s day-to-day moments.
Snap a quick “we’re still figuring it out” photo or share a candid story.
Tip: Don’t overthink it. If you’re launching a product, show the chaotic setup, the caffeine-fueled brainstorms, the first rough draft. That’s what people relate to.
See how other successful brands do it.
2. Create Interactive Content
Gen Z loves content that lets them actively engage – think polls, quizzes, or “Choose Your Adventure” stories.
They don’t want to just scroll; they want to play a part.
How to do it:
Run a quiz that matches your products with their personality traits
Use polls to gather opinions on future features.
Try a “Would You Rather” series.
Give your audience the chance to engage directly and feel like they’re part of the brand’s story.
Tip: Instagram Stories, LinkedIn polls, or interactive blog features are all fair game. Mix it up to keep it fun and fresh.
See how other successful brands do it.
3. Jump on Trends – But Make Them Yours
TikTok dances, meme culture, trending audios – you’ve seen the explosion of trends online.
Jumping on a trend is an easy way to gain visibility, but making it unique to your brand helps you stand out.
Trends come and go fast, but a brand that personalizes trends stands out.
How to do it:
Find a way to incorporate trends that align with your brand’s message.
A skincare brand, for example, could turn a trending dance into a demo on how to apply moisturizer.
Tip: Trends are a wave; they come and go quickly. Hop on fast, make it personal, and have fun.
See how other successful brands do it.
4. Focus on the “Why” Behind Your Brand
Gen Z is big on values.
They don’t just want products; they want products that stand for something.
Show them the bigger picture – the mission, the values, the reason behind the brand.
Whether it’s sustainability or inclusivity, make it clear that you’re doing more than just selling.
How to do it:
Share your brand’s backstory.
Why did you start your company?
What impact do you hope to have?
How you’re working to make a difference?
Tip: Show your impact. Highlight partnerships with causes, display eco-friendly practices, or celebrate diverse voices within your brand.
See how other successful brands do it.
5. Build a Community, Not Just a Following
Gen Z prefers brands that feel like communities.
They don’t just want to be your audience; they want to be part of something meaningful.
Instead of just gathering followers, focus on creating a space where people feel connected to each other and to you.
How to do it:
Start a group chat.
Run Q&A sessions where followers can engage directly with you and each other.
Be available, answer questions, ask for feedback – make it a two-way street.
Tip: Engagement is everything. Ask questions, get them involved, and let them know they’re part of something bigger than just a customer base.
See how other successful brands do it.
🎁 Bonus strategies for even more impact:
Gen Z is rewriting the rules.
Apply these strategies and watch your business stand out, gain trust, and build a brand that truly resonates.
All of these strategies were given by What A Startup members.
If you’re ready to learn more about startup and connect with like-minded founders…
Join us at What A Startup community! 👇
Thanks for reading!
- Gracie from What A Startup
"Share behind-the-scenes moments, even if they’re a bit messy."
That quote reminds of the book "Show Your Work" from Austin Kleon. I still struggle to do this. I care too much about not talking about myself too often.