Reaching Tech-Savvy Gen Alpha
Much has been shared about Generation Alpha. They are the only ones born entirely in the 21st century, with the eldest being around 13 years old. As of 2024, there will be more than 2 billion, making them the largest generation in history.
They are the first generation to grow up in a world where technology is integrated into every aspect of their lives, so they are often called digital natives. Considering the ease with which they use technology daily, they are now considered innovators, helping to build the future of how technology will evolve.
So, how do organizations adapt their use of technology to meet the unique needs and preferences of this generation? Here are some actions to take:
- Digital Engagement (DE): Is the effort to connect, interact, and build relationships through digital channels, which enables your organization to capture attention. DE increases with Gen Alpha when organizations use social media such as TikTok, Instagram, or Snapchat to engage, teach, and share new information.
- Collaborative Learning: Learning in this generation is heavily influenced by technology. Gen Alpha has a shorter attention span and is more inclined to learn visually or by experience, which makes traditional teaching methods ineffective. Organizations can bring information to life by automating the flow of data, using popular online applications, and promoting interactive experiences via educational apps and other online resources.
- Building Community: For prior generations, their community was limited to immediate surroundings or a direct circle of friends. With digital immersion, kids can now build meaningful connections with peers and mentors around the globe. Consider activities such as virtual small groups, online discussions, coordinated community service projects, or outdoor events. This generation desires authentic connection and doesn’t consider in-person relationships the only option.
- Connected Leadership: With Gen Alpha’s easy adoption of new technology, volunteers, staff, and youth leaders must be equally proficient. Consider offering training or workshops on social media management, online safety, and using digital tools for outreach. Everyone must complete a social media check and sign a consent form before engaging with anyone online.
- Family Involvement: With the eldest of Gen Alpha being around 13, family involvement is critical. Helping families navigate their child’s spiritual formation with digital tools and technologies can be done through online classes, parent groups, and other family-directed activities that focus on bringing them up to speed on how kids use technology.
Organizations that adapt their strategies to engage Generation Alpha and their families will reshape how they interact with and leverage technology, cultivate genuine connections, increase family support, and pave the way for a more sustainable future.
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Photo by Maria Thalassinou on Unsplash