Baby Boomers are the forgotten about audience when it comes to online marketing according to a recent emarketer report. It’s a common misconception that Boomers are not that tech savy, but this is not the case anymore. The reality is that this audience spends more time and more money online than any other demographic. They represent one of the largest segments of the population (no less than5.2million Australians), and nearly 80% of them are online. 40% are also expected to be accessing the web via mobile devices by 2015 meaning there is a huge and lucrative opportunity for those brands that are willing take the time to get to know them online.
In this inspiring TED talk, Wadah Khanfar, the head of Al Jazeera speaks optimistically about the changes sweeping the Arab world in recent weeks. Countries such as Egypt, Tunisia, and Lybia have all seen their communities stand up for change. For the first time in history, technology in the hands of the people, particularly social media networks, has been a key catalyst for empowering communities, and allowing them to speak up for what they believe in.
For decades western governments have tried to influence the region with peace talks, diplomacy, wars, sanctions, or financial investment. All attempts have largely failed. As Mr Khanfar puts it “connectivity has created new mindsets..that have continued to be faithful to the soil and to the land that it emerged from.” In other words, this new form of connectivity has given a voice to the “people” for the very first time. For communities to empower themselves to make change that previously was thought not possible. Despite their own Government’s attempts to shut down the country’s Internet connectivity, people were able to use the Internet and social media to communicate. To tell their story, and to stand up for change.
This is what I love about social media. It’s about bringing people together. It’s about forming communities. It’s about giving people a voice. In doing so it’s giving them power over their own destiny, and as seen in Egypt – making history in the process.
Social media for social good. This is what inspires me.
Brazilian research company Box1824 showcases in this film the results from several studies they’ve conducted about youth culture and the Internet. A nice little summary of the youth of today and what makes them tick.
