♻1. Greenwashing

If you’ve been keeping up with our posts and articles, you’ll know that sustainability is very important to Gen-Z... but if it’s not important to your brand, then do not force the agenda! If you don’t save 20 pandas a month, or plant a tree with each order, then do not say it. Other than it being just awfully wrong to do, Gen-Z will find out and you’ll be saying bye-bye to brand loyalty and authenticity quicker than it took to upload the post.

📖2. Ignoring the Value of Storytelling

Storytelling is an effective marketing strategy to employ across the board, but it’s even more important for Gen-Z. Do not prioritise the product over the story. Don’t tell them that the product will change their lives - show them how! Produce content of people using the product in authentic scenarios that Gen-Z can relate to, or contract influencers to do this. Don’t sell the product - sell the story!

✊3. Performative Activism

Don’t even think about changing your icon to an LGBTQIA+ flag or the ‘Black Power’ sign if you’re not dedicated to the causes! There have been countless scenarios where brands have done this without the dedication to show for. This is not an opportunity to sell merch or stick up a new icon - it’s wrong, it’s offensive and it WILL get you caught out! P.S... we found that 83% of students think that the use of a rainbow flag during Pride by brands is an insult.

Now you know what you should avoid, it’s time to have a look at some trusted tips on what you should do - check out our previous posts and articles!