Generation Alpha, or Gen A, refers to the demographic cohort succeeding Generation Z. While the exact boundaries aren’t completely solidified, most researchers place the birth years for this generation between 2010 and 2024. They are the first generation to be born entirely in the 21st century and the third millennium.
In fact, when we look at the year range in the definition, it is not difficult to see that Gen A is a generation that has grown up intertwined with technology. Imagine that you were born in the middle of all this AI craze and it is at the center of your thoughts, ideas and goals.
We expect a lot from this generation, but what makes Gen A so special? Let’s talk about it.
What makes Generation Alpha unique?
As mentioned before, Generation Alpha, the demographic cohort born between 2010 and 2025, exhibits several noteworthy characteristics that shape their worldview and interactions.
Digital natives
Generation Alpha has been immersed in technology since birth, with ready access to smartphones, tablets, and the internet. This exposure has fostered high levels of digital literacy, making them comfortable in online environments.
They communicate, learn, and socialize using technology, navigating the digital world effortlessly.
Globally connected
This generation is the most globally connected, enjoying easy access to information and interactions with people worldwide. This exposure contributes to a diverse and open-minded worldview, as they encounter different cultures, beliefs, and perspectives early on.
Gen A’s ability to connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds promotes empathy and understanding.
Diverse
Growing up in a world that increasingly values diversity and inclusion, Generation Alpha is more likely to come from diverse backgrounds. They are exposed to a variety of cultures, ethnicities, and lifestyles, fostering open-mindedness and acceptance.
This diversity-centric upbringing encourages them to challenge traditional social norms.
Entrepreneurial
In an era dominated by the gig economy and social media, Generation Alpha is coming of age in an environment where entrepreneurship and self-employment are accessible. They encounter entrepreneurial role models and resources, developing a mindset that includes a willingness to take risks, a focus on innovation, and adaptability to changing circumstances.
Sustainably-minded
Raised in a world increasingly concerned about climate change and sustainability, Generation Alpha is educated about environmental issues and the importance of sustainability.
They exhibit a strong sense of social responsibility and expect the organizations they support to prioritize sustainability and ethical practices.
Shorter attention span
Due to the abundance of information and entertainment, Generation Alpha has a shorter attention span compared to previous generations. They are accustomed to consuming information in bite-sized chunks and quickly switching between different sources of media and entertainment, preferring short-form content like TikTok videos and Instagram stories.
Visual learners
More likely to be visual learners, Generation Alpha prefers consuming information through images and videos rather than text. This preference is evident in their use of visual-centric social media platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, where images and videos are primary tools for communication.
Prefer experiences over material goods
Generation Alpha places a higher value on experiences than material possessions. They allocate their resources towards experiences like travel, concerts, and festivals rather than accumulating possessions like clothing and electronics.
This shift reflects a change in values, emphasizing personal growth and experiences over material wealth.
Is Gen A our future?
Whether Generation Alpha is “our future” depends on how one defines it. On the one hand, their sheer numbers and growing influence will undoubtedly shape the future of society, culture, technology, and politics. As the largest generation in history, they will have a significant impact on consumer behavior, workforce trends, and cultural values. However, their impact won’t be immediate, as they are still young and just beginning to enter the workforce.
On the other hand, Gen A has the potential to address existing problems and challenges, such as climate change, inequality, and technological disruption, with their digital fluency, global perspective, and innovative spirit. However, they will also inherit existing challenges and may struggle with similar systemic issues like economic inequality and political polarization.
Ultimately, the future is not predetermined, and both Gen A’s actions and choices, as well as our own actions and support for them, will matter in shaping the future we live in. Their values, priorities, and collaborative efforts will be crucial in creating the world they will inhabit, and our decisions today will influence the opportunities and environment they will inherit.
Featured image credit: Markus Spiske/Unsplash.
