Gen Alpha: The Future is Here and Community Managers Should be Ready

This year, the first representatives of the new generation will turn 13. From a legal point of view, this is the age when kids can set up their own independent accounts on some social networking platforms. What should community managers know about Gen Alpha, and what can we do to be ready for the first generation fully born into the 21st century?

Gen Alpha is the demographic cohort following Generation Z, born between 2010 and 2025. The main characteristic is their high level of technology engagement from a young age. They are adept at using a variety of digital devices and platforms and have a deep understanding of how technology works.

This high level of technology engagement has also led to a generation that is more connected and globally aware, as they are able to access information and communicate with others from around the world with ease. And this ability will likely have a significant impact on their future as active members of online communities. As they grow up, they will be well-equipped to participate in online communities in meaningful ways. They will be able to connect with people from different backgrounds and cultures and will have a greater understanding of different perspectives. This will make them valuable contributors to online communities.

Gen Alpha is also known as the “Millennial’s Kids”, the children of the Millennial generation. Millennial parents are often described as being more hands-on, involved, and nurturing compared to previous generations. They place a strong emphasis on education and personal growth and tend to prioritize their children’s happiness and success. Millennial parents are more likely to expose their kids to technology early on and use it as an educational tool, which is a key factor in Gen Alpha’s high level of technology engagement which I presented in a paragraph above.

What else distinguishes the new generation?

• Hyperconnected. Alpha children are permanently connected. Such is their attention to new technologies that it becomes a way of life.
• Technological. Being hyper-connected, they become experts in the use of new technologies, which facilitates their digital learning and opens up a wide range of possibilities (I am telling you as a mum of 2 Alphas ;))
• Independents. They are independent when it comes to making their own decisions and managing their digital identities, and they expect their individual needs and preferences to be taken into account.
• Visuals. Video is their preferred format.
• Diverse. In this case, diversity not only refers to demographics, such as ethnicity and gender but also to tastes, lifestyles, and points of view.

So what will be the key guidelines for our rising stars while joining communities?

1. Inclusivity and diversity: Gen Alpha will be the most diverse and inclusive generation yet, so they may prioritize communities that are inclusive and welcoming to all members, regardless of race, gender, sexual orientation, or ability.
2. Authenticity: Gen Alpha may value authenticity and transparency in communities and may shy away from those that seem insincere or inauthentic.
3. Technology integration: As Gen Alpha will have grown up with technology at their fingertips, they may prioritize communities that make use of technology and social media to create immersive, interactive experiences.
4. Empowerment and self-expression: I think that Millennial parents are doing a great job here! Gen Alpha may look for communities that empower members to express themselves and their own unique identities, and that provide opportunities for personal growth and development.
5. Ease of use: Gen Alpha may prioritize communities that are easy to join, navigate, and engage with, and that requires minimal effort to participate in.

Understanding the needs and preferences of Gen Alpha is important for community building because they are simply the next generation of community members. And since they are extremely curious — they really want to be a part of online communities and interact with others. Community managers who are proactive in preparing for and engaging with Gen Alpha will be better positioned to attract and retain them as members of their communities.

To be ready for Gen Alpha members, consider the following strategies:

• Stay informed about the latest trends and technologies that Gen Alpha is using;
• Create a sense of belonging and purpose in the community to appeal to Gen Alpha’s desire for connection and meaning;
• Be transparent and authentic in your communication and engagement with Gen Alpha;
• Encourage participation and empowerment by giving Gen Alpha members opportunities to lead and contribute to the community.

Being proactive in preparing for and engaging with Gen Alpha will help community managers build communities that are inclusive, engaging, and meaningful to the next generation.