Gen Y is the most cynical generation ever, here's how to use that to your advantage
According to a study by the University of Georgia, Gen Y is the most cynical generation EVAR. The study shows that Gen Y is gloomier than the slackers of Gen X, and waaaaay less trusting than baby boomers. From MTV:
"A new study from the University of Georgia compared 140,000 millennials’ responses to previous generations’ attitudes. Between 2000 and 2012, millennial approval of Congress plummeted from 49% to 22%. (Compare that to the 30% of baby boomers happy with Congress during the Vietnam years.) In the same timespan, millennial approval of corporations dropped from 54% to 33% — and the results are similar for organized religion, upper education, police departments, the media and…hmm, that about covers it?"
Ah, so we're cynical. If you were a generation who grew up with stock market crashes and the (very real) threat of not having social security, then you'd probably be cynical too. But never fear! Here are three ways you can work with our cynicism.
Be uber transparent. Like, super transparent. Be clear. If our default is to not trust you, then start by earning our love. Be upfront about your intentions. Lay all your cards on the table, because we'll probably find out about them anyway.
Time it right. We already assume you're cold and calculating. At least take the time to prove us right. Well, the calculating part. Use that to your advantage. Do your research and push products and offerings out at the right time.
Be cynical too. That's right! We're all in this together. Present us with all of the reasons why we should be cynical, and alleviate those fears and frustrations. We'll appreciate it.
Have you encountered an overwhelming amount of cynicism from Gen Y? Let us know in the comments below!
DeAndré
DeAndre Upshaw is a former Young & Free Texas Spokester. He's a marketing professional living in Dallas and a Beyonce enthusiast. DeAndre is the host and executive producer of The State of Awesome. Follow him on Twitter and check out his personal website.
