3 Ways to Capture Millenials' Attention

It seems that every time I turn around, there's a new article about the importance of Millenials and how to reach them. After all, these young and up-and-comers are significant to all of our futures. Much of the discussion seems to be about the best way to market and sell to them. I, myself, am part of the so calledGenX group; as such, I've grown up with technology and have learned to embrace it, but perhaps not in quite the same ways -- or in the same quantities -- as the Millenials.

Millenials thrive on technology. They live and breath it. And if you want to reach them, you need to understand where they are and how they communicate.

Here are three very simple ways to capture their attention.

1. Use smart, brief copy. Too many words and you've lost them. This is not to say this isn't an intelligent bunch -- believe me, they are incredibly sharp. It's just they're used to communicating in text messages and tweets, so keep your messaging short and sweet, and not to terribly direct. Clever works. Humor does too.

2. Use images and graphics. While we all respond to infographics, photos and pictures, they are crucial when speaking to Millenials. If you don't have a good image to accompany your message, don't bother.

3. Be where they are. This one isn't rocket science -- it's just common sense. Millenials use the internet and their mobile devices like most of us use food and air. Therefore if you want their attention -- and more importantly, their business -- you've got to be where they are. And don't think your Facebook page is going to do it. Ever heard of Instavid, Vine, Snapchat, Hyperlapse? Exactly. Your social media strategy should be innovative, broad-reaching, should encompass the newest and most popular venues, and most importantly, consistent. Find an audience and feed them valuable (i.e., value-added) content. Consider vlogging (video blogging). Check out Ello, Yik Yak and some of the other new social media platforms. Just do it...

Bonus tip: Be nice to them! Millenials haven't had the easiest path. They've had to pay more for college, coffee, living expenses and just about everything else -- plus, they've had to do it on a lot less. And although they may seem a little "disconnected" in one-on-one situations, they are genuinely good-hearted people. Millenials donate more of their time, money and energy than almost any other group. Furthermore, they recycle, walk more, drive less and care deeply about the causes and people in their lives. They deserve your time and attention.

While reaching Millenials may seem a little daunting at first, you'll find it's worth your efforts. So get out there and try something...heck, try anything -- just keep it cool, clever and consistent. You might actually find your marketing niche, and who knows? You could also make some wonderful, lifelong tech-embracing, nature-loving clients in the bargain.

Happy hunting!