Social Networking Sites? Marketing to Gen Y

The popularity of social networking sites like YouTube, MySpace and Facebook have opened the door to companies looking to capitilize on the Y Generation customers who frequent these locations. Viral marketing, word of mouth and buzzing are terms most experts commonly associate with this growing population. But merely signing up and showcasing your stuff will not attract customers to your location. There are other marketing techniques that have to coincide and interact with using networking sites to attract this youthful but powerful economic group.

Companies and experts agree that Y Generation will play a huge factor in the success of any given brand. Whereas TV programs like MTV and BET played a significant role in the success (or not) of brands of the previous generation, the internet, instant messaging and social networking sites are the medium of choice for Y Gen.

Companies and brands looking to capture a piece of this group, utimately will need to have a strategy in place that will address the concerns, likes and dislikes as well as the needs of Y Gen on their terms and on their turf.

One Cuppy's Coffee franchisee realizes the importance of social networking sites and was recently interviewed on his strategy to gain more customers by reaching out and meeting this young group head on. Read the interview here.