If a Boomer posts a blurry selfie, we know they’re technologically challenged; if they share a cringe-worthy meme, we know they’re out of sync with Gen Z humor.
Ah, the beauty of generational gaps.
However, it’s not always this simple.
In fact, the world of social media is so diverse and filled with nuances that it takes a bit of digital savvy to truly decipher what makes one generation tick, and another one cringe.
Now, I’m no stranger to this phenomenon.
As a writer in the digital era, observing these online interactions is part of my job—and boy, have I noticed some patterns!
1) Overuse of emojis
Emojis are the spices of digital communication.
They add flavor, express our feelings, and sometimes even replace words altogether—but, just like with cooking, there’s such a thing as overdoing it.
Now, Boomers on social media seem to have a love affair with emojis that borderlines on obsession.
I get it, expressing emotions online can be hard, and emojis make it easier.
But here’s the thing: Gen Z has mastered the art of subtle communication.
They know when less is more and how to say a lot with just a few emojis.
When Boomers sprinkle their posts with an excessive amount of smiley faces, hearts, and thumbs-up, it feels like they’re shouting in a library.
It’s too much, too loud, and all-around cringe-inducing.
In the digital arena where silence is golden and understatement is key, less is definitely more.
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2) Misunderstanding social media lingo
Language evolves, and nowhere is this more evident than on social media.
I’ll never forget the time my aunt commented “LOL” under a family photo where we were all making silly faces.
I thought she was laughing along with us until she called and expressed her condolences.
Turns out, she thought LOL meant “Lots of Love!”
This is just one of many instances where Boomers’ lack of understanding of social media lingo makes Gen Z facepalm.
From misinterpreting acronyms to using hashtags incorrectly, these digital faux pas are amusing at best, but mostly they’re a source of second-hand embarrassment for the younger generation.
Don’t get me wrong, it’s not their fault; social media can be a minefield of new terms and symbols.
However, it’s a stark reminder that language isn’t static, and staying up-to-date with online lingo is crucial in the world of digital communication.
3) Sharing everything publicly
In the world of social media, privacy settings are your best friend.
They allow you to control who sees what, ensuring that your personal life remains just that—personal.
However, Boomers seem to struggle with this concept.
They often share photos, comments, and posts publicly, making their online presence an open book for everyone to see.
Gen Z, on the other hand, is known for their careful curation of online content.
They understand the value of privacy and the potential repercussions of oversharing on the internet.
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This mindset starkly contrasts with the Boomers’ ‘share it all’ approach, making it another point of digital disconnect between the two generations.
Remember folks, on social media, sometimes less is more—and, when in doubt, check those privacy settings!
4) Sharing chain messages and hoaxes
We’ve all been there: You open your messages and there it is, a long-winded chain message forwarded by an older relative, warning you about the latest internet hoax or urging you to share a message to avoid bad luck.
Boomers seem particularly susceptible to these types of posts, often sharing them without checking their accuracy.
While their intentions are good, these messages can quickly become a nuisance, clogging up feeds and spreading misinformation.
Gen Z, raised in an era of ‘fake news’, is usually more skeptical.
They’re more likely to fact-check before they share and are less inclined to believe everything they see online.
So, Boomers, next time you come across a post claiming that sharing it will bring you good fortune, take a moment.
A quick Google search can save you from unintentionally spreading the latest social media hoax and save your younger contacts from yet another eye-roll.
5) Posting pixelated images
I consider myself a bit of a photography enthusiast; I love capturing moments, and social media provides the perfect platform to share those memories with others.
However, there’s nothing that makes me cringe more than seeing a pixelated image posted on a Boomer’s social media feed.
Whether it’s a family photo that looks like it’s been taken with a potato or a meme that’s been shared one too many times, the lack of quality is painfully noticeable.
I’ve tried explaining the importance of image resolution to my Boomer relatives, but it seems to go in one ear and out the other.
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They just don’t seem to understand why it matters.
Gen Z, however, has grown up with high-quality cameras right in their pockets.
They know the power of a well-composed, high-resolution photo and wouldn’t dream of posting anything less.
In the era where image is everything, quality truly does matter.
6) Avoiding video content
Social media isn’t just about text and images anymore.
With platforms like TikTok and Instagram reels, video content is taking over our feeds.
Yet, Boomers seem to steer clear of this trend.
They’re often content with posting status updates and photos, rarely venturing into the world of video creation.
Now, you might think this is a good thing—less cringe-worthy content, right?
Here’s the twist: Gen Z actually appreciates when older generations make an effort to keep up with the latest trends.
Seeing a Boomer take on a TikTok challenge or share a thoughtful vlog can be endearing and even bridge the generational gap.
While Boomers’ avoidance of video content might seem like a safe move, it’s actually a missed opportunity for connection and understanding.
After all, social media is about sharing experiences and stepping out of our comfort zones, irrespective of our age.
7) Overuse of inspirational quotes
Inspirational quotes can be a great way to start the day.
They can lift our spirits, motivate us, and even provide some much-needed perspective but, like most things in life, moderation is key.
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Boomers have a tendency to flood their social media feeds with these motivational mantras.
While their intention to spread positivity is admirable, the constant barrage of quotes can feel a bit overwhelming, even insincere to the more cynical Gen Z.
This younger generation tends to value authenticity and rawness over polished platitudes.
They prefer real-life experiences and stories over generic quotes.
Before you hit share on that next inspirational quote, consider sharing a personal anecdote or a life lesson instead.
It might not be as glossy or perfect, but it’s real, and that’s what truly resonates with Gen Z.
8) Ignoring the social aspect of social media
Ironically, the most significant thing that makes Gen Z cringe about Boomers on social media is their tendency to ignore the ‘social’ aspect of these platforms.
Boomers tend to treat social media as a one-way street, a platform for broadcasting their lives rather than engaging in conversations.
Boomers post updates, share photos, even comment on posts, but rarely do they engage in meaningful interactions; Gen Z, on the other hand, sees social media as a space for dialogue and connection.
They use it to engage with others, share ideas, and build communities.
It’s best to learn how to engage with your followers, start a conversation, respond to comments—I mean, social media is about being social!
Embracing the digital divide
As we navigate this digital landscape, it’s important to remember that we’re all learning.
We’re all making mistakes, and we’re all trying to understand this ever-evolving world of social media.
Boomers may not always get it right, and they might make Gen Z cringe with their social media faux pas but, at the end of the day, they’re trying to connect in a world that’s vastly different from the one they grew up in.
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And isn’t that what social media is all about? Connection, understanding, and bridging gaps—whether they’re generational or otherwise.
Let’s cut Boomers some slack.
Instead of cringing at their social media blunders, let’s lend a helping hand.
After all, we were once new to this digital world too.
Who knows? In the process, we might just learn something from each other and bridge the digital divide that separates us.
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