Next generation thinking is about so much more than just a demographic change. It's about keeping up with the latest business trends, about generation leadership styles and identifying who your next consumer is and putting plans in NOW to appropriate your business. New generation thinking is one of the most fundamental steps of forecasting what the future holds, and can give you a substantial edge as we progress into the 21st century.

No- one likes to be old and out-dated, especially in a world that is in perpetual motion. It is, however, easily avoided if you adopt a 'new generation thinking' style. If you are having trouble trying to put yourself into that sort of mind-set, here are a couple of traits to remember when you are trying to appeal to your new generation consumer:

Non- conformity: When it comes to the newer generations, one of the most jarring shifts would have to be their distaste of conformity. In fact, some may say that not conforming is a guilty pleasure for them. When it comes to how this will work in your business, all you need to know is that different is always better. In this day and age you have to find what distinguishes you from every other business in your field, and play on it. Individualism is one of your strongest weapons.

Technology: Technology has the ability to connect people all around the world. It is a wealth of knowledge available at your finger tips, and it is also an effective and inexpensive way to appeal to the masses. Since technology is very much a 21st century thing, it should come as no surprise that newer generations, specifically those of Gen Z are tech-fanatics. Whilst we can sit here and debate the pros and cons of technology, we can not disregard the fact that it is inevitably the way of the future. Which in turn, means being able to recognize the advantages of utilising technology- results in your business being one step closer to the consumer. Ultimately, appealing to their tech savvy nature.

Self- Directed You'll find that next generation thinkers are self directed. They won't often utilise their time in a structured manner, meaning that they are more focused on self discovery rather than say- specialising in a hobby. This means that this consumer in particular, is incessantly more picky in what they do with their time. More importantly, they will only do or buy something that they really want, because they are in fear of wasting their time and money. If you can take anything from this trait, it is that you need to make your business something that they will want to do. Letting your accreditations or degree do the talking for you, is no longer good enough- in fact, that alone to them is boring. You really have to sell your business.

Shelf Space It has to be noted that newer generations don't fuss themselves with awards, trophies and accolades. In actual fact, you will find that they are focused more specifically on a culture or mood. They necessitate a good environment to really thrive. Stop focusing on winning and start focusing on your value. Make sure your business works on a point of culture, always working towards a common goal. This will not only boost the morale in your company, but it will also appeal to your consumer.
Time keeps changing, it's forever moving forward. Don't be the business that gets left behind.