Authenticity and Gen Z: Beyond the buzzword

Group of male and female Gen Z-ers laughing
Published by
Victoria Owen
Published on
July 3, 2024
Last updated
July 3, 2024
A 3D spring illustration

Authenticity and Gen Z: Beyond the buzzword

Group of male and female Gen Z-ers laughing
Published by
Victoria Owen
Published on
July 3, 2024
Last updated
July 3, 2024

We’re trusted by these brands, and many more

Apple's logo
Emirated logo
Asos logo
Booking.com logo
MLB logo
JD Sports logo
Dominos logo
Gymshark logo
Apple's logo
Emirated logo
Asos logo
Booking.com logo
MLB logo
JD Sports logo
Dominos logo
Gymshark logo
Adidas logo
Expedia logo
Boots logo
Prime Student logo
Samsung logo
National Express logo
Greggs logo
Deliveroo logo
Adidas logo
Expedia logo
Boots logo
Prime Student logo
Samsung logo
National Express logo
Greggs logo
Deliveroo logo

If you’re trying to engage with Gen Z - and let’s face it, you should be - it’s likely that you’ve stumbled across the phrase “authenticity” by now. Authenticity is the buzzword of the moment; everyone from Gen Zs themselves to senior marketers are pushing for more authenticity from brands.

But what does authenticity actually mean – and how can you be authentic in the eyes of Gen Z?

Pion put this question to our global network of outspoken Gen Z students – and within this guide, you’ll find the answer. Pulled together by real-life Gen Zs, combining first-hand perspectives with quantitative insights, you’ll learn how to be truly authentic. We’ll cover humor, ethics and values, social media and more – by the end, we hope to bring your brand one step closer to this powerful demographic.

The highlights:

  • Humor – get ready to unpack the infamous Gen Z sense of humor – and find out how you can tap into it.
  • Ethics and values – understand how to commit your brand to vital causes year-round.
  • Role models – bigger isn’t always better – learn what nano and micro-influencers are getting right.
  • Hall of fame – real examples of Gen Z brands, including Crocs, Starface World and more.