If you want your stories to reach readers, it is essential to understand where and when readers from different generations consume the news.

Yet, it is even better to write content and distribute it in such a way that allows for all generations to read it and be engaging with your content.

Now, before we jump into the article, let's just take a look at how different generations consume news:
  • Baby Boomers still stick to traditional media, but they are also active on social media.
  • Gen Xers mainly get their news from TV and social media.
  • Millennials tend to source their news from streaming platforms and podcasts.
  • Gen Zers get their news from social media and they tend to not watch TV.
Now that we know how these generations consume news, let's take a look at three ways to bridge the gap between them:

1. Consider posting news on social media

It can be so easy to leave social media off your news distribution list, but if your main target audience is Baby Boomers or even Gen X, reconsider this — these generations are extremely active on social media platforms.

According to Statista, 78% of Baby Boomers and 76% of Gen Xers make use of Facebook, meaning that a big chunk of this generation is active on some sort of social media platform. Therefore, a great way to ensure that your news reaches more people is to consider distributing it on social media. Why, you ask?

Well, simply because most generations already spend a lot of time on social media to begin with, so meet your audience where they are.

2. Be concise

If there is one thing that all generations can agree on, it is the importance of accurate and ethical reporting. A great way to bridge the gap between different generations is by reporting on news using facts and easy-to-understand language.

Baby Boomers, Gen Xers, Millennials and Gen Zers do not like content that contains misinformation, disinformation or fake news. However, this is also something that can sometimes divide generations as some of them are not able to spot fake news at first glance.

Generations like Gen Z and Millennials grew up with digital news dissemination, which makes them more verse in spotting fake news. This can then cause frustrations with generations that know when something is fake news or not. So if you want your reporting to bridge the gap, just stick to factual and honest journalism.

3. Be aware of how to use inclusive language

As a journalist, reporter, writer, or content creator, you know how one simple word in a sentence can make all the difference to the reader. Making use of inclusive language and being socially aware when reporting the news is a sure way to bring all generations together.

So, when you are reporting on a story about the LGBTQ+ community, be sure to use the correct terms in a respectful manner and use inclusive language. This is a great way to ensure that all generations will feel valued, heard and respected.

What are some other ways you think journalists can bridge the gap between how generations consume the news? Be sure to let us know in the comments section below.

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Curious to learn more about the role that social media plays in distributing news online? Then check out this article on The role of social media platforms in news dissemination [Infographic].
*Image courtesy of Pexels