So, how can you as a marketer reach your Gen Z audience? Well, by getting down and punky on the lingo side, of course. Being open to change, innovation and new ways of communicating are what will set your marketing strategy apart from the rest.

Are you willing to put in some work to reach your Gen Zs effectively? Then media update's Jana van der Westhuizen is here to help you get your slang — on!


The Gen Zs, otherwise known as the Zoomers (I know, right?), are a generation that is quite intriguing and are slowly taking over the consumer market … Oh and apologies to the founders of tech giant Google … this generation is officially younger than good ol' Google!



With this being said, there are a few important facts about this up and coming generation that goes hand-in-hand with understanding their communication:
  • They live a digital life. It ain't official until it's Facebook official!
  • They are daring, innovative and competitive. You either adapt with them or you can stay behind, Gina!
  • Gen Zs are inquisitive and they do their research. So do not try to fool them!
Still, want to get the attention of this hip generation? Then let's crack into a few words that will get you some street credit with your audience!

Snack

No, it's not lunchtime! The word snack within this context refers to something or someone looking good. This would be considered one of the highest compliments … so just slide this one into the DMs!

"You look like a mighty snack today, Gina!"

Boujee

Just know this is a word to tread with. Boujee means when someone is flaunting their stuff, or living a higher lifestyle than they actually do or can afford. Let's say a woman is showing off her very expensive ring, but actually, it's not even hers! Yes … people actually do that!

"Don't act all boujee on me, Gina … I know your purse is a fake … mmmm … hmmm."

Nunya

Now this word may take you back to your Mxit days, dear Millennials, but the meaning is actually quite clear: None of your business — or 'Nun ya'. 

This will typically be said conversationally in an argument or in a text message. This is a great way to attract the Gen Z audience because this is higher grade slang that some of the other generations may find complicated!

"Oh Gina, you're so irritating! This is nunya business!"

Bread

To prevent looking like a bread, it is important to use this word correctly. In the Gen Z community, this word is used to talk about future success or the money one plans to make. It can also refer to a new venture or future endeavours that might affect your 'moola' situation in the future.

"Darn Gina, you better take this job … it is bread!"

G.O.A.T.

The Greatest of All Time – If you ever use this word, make sure to use it correctly. For the Gen Zs, this means that you are truly amazing, and possibly the best ever. You can use this term to describe a person or even a product. The Gen Z consumer market appreciates quality, so make sure that you know what they like before you throw this word around!

"Oh my! Gina is G.O.A.T.!"


Marketers — get your boujee on and make the Gen Z lingo part of your strategy for more effective targeting. The Gen Z demographic is booming as cross-platform shoppers care about sustainability and shop until they find a solution that meets their needs … Get your brand message in shape, market and sell! 

Do you like the Gen Z lingo, or do you feel that marketing is not affected by generational communication? Share your thoughts in the comment section.

Do you want to get street-wise on the latest tips of the industry? Subscribe to our newsletter.

You can also reach the Gen Z audience by creating a solid content strategy and leaving a meaningful impression. Read more in our article, Marketers, here are four tips for reaching Gen Zers in 2022.
*Image courtesy of GIPHY and Unsplash