3 min. reading

Unlocking Gen Z: New Meta Research Reveals Social Connection Strategy

Generation Z isn't just another marketing buzzword. Making up roughly a third of our global population, these digital natives are reshaping how we connect, consume, and shop in ways that would have seemed alien just a decade ago. A recent research study conducted by Meta in partnership with BAMM Global focuses on unlocking Gen Z, providing fascinating insights into the social media habits of 18–24-year-olds across Brazil, Germany, Japan, the UK, and the USA.  

Katarína Šimčíková Katarína Šimčíková
Freelance I Digital Marketing Specialist, Ecommerce Bridge EU
Unlocking Gen Z: New Meta Research Reveals Social Connection Strategy
Source: Depositphotos

The Content Handshake

For Gen Z, a well-timed meme has a greater impact than any greeting. A whopping 67% of these young folks are busy sharing Meta’s video content with their inner circles, turning what marketers might see as “content” into something far more intimate—digital gifts that say “I’m thinking of you” without actually saying it.

As Lucca from the US puts it, “I scroll through Reels and then send them to my friends and then we comment on them.” It’s their love language, plain and simple.

What’s particularly fascinating is how they’ll chat with the same person across multiple platforms. One minute they’re waxing philosophical on WhatsApp; the next they’re trading music recommendations on Instagram—all with the same friend!

Source: Facebook.com/business/news

Micro-Content: Bite-Sized and Tailor-Made

The days of watching the same TV shows or following the same celebrities are long gone. Gen Z has rewritten the rules, with 63% actively curating their social media feeds, making sure they only see content that aligns with their individual interests.

These short videos aren’t just entertainment—they’re life manuals. Whether they’re hunting for dinner inspiration or figuring out how to invest their first pay cheque, 81% of Instagram users are turning to the platform not just for laughs but for genuine self-improvement.

“I want to hear from creators that are actually adding something to my life,” Max explains, cutting right to the chase. And here’s the kicker: 71% don’t even need to follow these creators to value their content. In the algorithmic age, relevance trumps loyalty every time.

The Always-Open Shopping Cart

Is there a clear distinction between scrolling and shopping? For Gen Z, the line is almost invisible. These savvy consumers have shopping mode hardwired into their browsing experience, with 78% discovering new products through video content when they least expect it.

For brands looking to make an impression, persistence pays off. About 67% say they’re more likely to investigate a brand after seeing it pop up multiple times.

Unlocking Gen Z: New Meta Research Reveals Social Connection Strategy

Source: Facebook.com/business/news

Unlocking Gen Z: The Bottom Line

If there’s one thing we’ve learnt from this, it’s that generation rewrites the rules; connecting with Gen Z isn’t rocket science—but it does require throwing out the old rulebook. Drop the corporate speak, embrace authentic diversity, and understand that in their world, every scroll might lead to a purchase if you play your cards right.

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Katarína Šimčíková
Freelance I Digital Marketing Specialist, Ecommerce Bridge EU

Freelance Digital Marketing Specialist at Ecommerce Bridge with nearly a decade of experience in digital marketing, where I’ve specialised in managing international teams and building strategic partnerships. As former International Team Lead at Groupon, I managed teams across various European countries, handled KPI achievement, and worked daily with agencies in English. These days, I focus on content strategy, link building, and coordinating with international agencies in e-commerce expansion. What truly fulfils me is working with people and seeing everyone happy and satisfied with the results. I’m passionate about researching and writing about the latest trends in e-commerce and digital marketing, bringing fresh insights and industry news to our readers. I hold a Master’s degree in Mass Media Studies and completed international courses in London and Bristol.

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