Tag Archive for: Gen Z

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Gen Z as Digital Influencers in Conflict: The Power and Risks of Digital Activism

Gen Z as Digital Influencers in Conflict

Generation Z, typically defined as individuals born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, has grown up in a highly digital and interconnected world. Unlike previous generations, they are deeply integrated into online environments where communication, information sharing, and social interaction happen instantly. This has led to the rise of digital activism, which refers to the use of online platforms to raise awareness, advocate for social issues, and influence public opinion. In the context of global conflicts, digital activism has become an important space where young people engage with issues such as human rights and civilian experiences.

Gen Z has emerged as a powerful group of digital influencers, capable of shaping conversations on a global scale. Through platforms such as TikTok, Instagram, and X, they share content that simplifies complex political situations and makes them more accessible to a wider audience. By using short videos, visual storytelling, and personal narratives, they are able to connect emotionally with viewers and draw attention to the realities faced by civilians in conflict areas. This form of engagement allows young people not only to consume information but also to actively participate in spreading awareness and influencing how others understand global events.

In addition to spreading information, Gen Z plays a significant role in shaping narratives around conflict. Social media platforms allow users to present events from specific perspectives, which can influence how audiences interpret and respond to those events. Through the use of hashtags, captions, and viral content, certain viewpoints gain more visibility and become dominant in online discussions. For example, during the recent escalation of the Gaza Strip conflict, hashtags such as #SaveSheikhJarrah and #GazaUnderAttack went viral across platforms like TikTok and Instagram. These hashtags were widely used by young users to highlight the experiences of Palestinian civilians and draw global attention to human rights concerns. As a result, the conflict was increasingly framed online as a humanitarian issue rather than only a political or military one, influencing how global audiences perceived the situation.

The speed and reach of these digital tools, including live streaming and algorithm-driven content, further strengthen the ability of these narratives to spread and shape public opinion in real time.

However, its influence comes with its own challenges, and one of the main risks is the rapid spread of misinformation, as content is often shared quickly without proper verification. This can lead to misunderstandings and the spread of false narratives, especially in complex conflict situations. Additionally, the visibility of online activism can expose individuals to risks such as surveillance, censorship, and harassment. In some cases, governments or other actors may monitor digital activities, creating potential dangers for those who speak out. Another concern is performative activism, where individuals engage with issues only on a surface level, such as sharing posts without a deeper understanding or meaningful action. This can reduce the overall impact of digital movements and oversimplify serious issues.

In conclusion, Generation Z has become a significant force in shaping how conflicts and human rights issues are discussed in the digital age. Through their use of social media, they spread information, influence narratives, and bring global attention to important issues. At the same time, their digital presence also highlights the challenges of online activism, including misinformation and potential risks for participants. This shows that while digital platforms provide powerful tools for awareness and engagement, they also require careful and responsible use.

Reference:

Bukhari, S. R. H. (2025, November 28). DIGITAL ACTIVISM OF GENERATION Z: THE ROLE OF SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS IN YOUTH LED POLITICAL MOVEMENTS AND GOVERNMENT CHANGE.

http://www.pjssrjournal.com/index.php/Journal/article/view/326

Guesmi, H. (2021b, May 28). Generation Z will free Palestine. Al Jazeera. https://www.aljazeera.com/opinions/2021/5/28/generation-z-will-free-palestine

Sombatpoonsiri, J. (2025, September 30). The promises and pitfalls of the social Media–Fueled Gen-Z protests across Asia. Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. https://carnegieendowment.org/emissary/2025/09/social-media-gen-z-protests-nepal-indonesia-promises-pitfalls?lang=en

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Mewakili Suara Gen Z, Mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi UII Angkat Keresahan Lewat Karya Musik

Mewakili Suara Gen Z, Mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi UII Angkat Keresahan Lewat Karya Musik

Umumnya mahasiswa memilih skripsi sebagai syarat meraih gelar sarjana, namun berbeda dengan Farid Fadillah mahasiwa Ilmu Komunikasi UII angkatan 2021 yang memilih karya musik untuk merampungkan masa studinya.

Berjudul “Wtlg” akronim dari We’re the lost generation lagu ini mengangkat keresahan Gen Z. Sebagai mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi Farid yakin bahwa penyamapaian pesan lewat musik mampu menyentuh emosi. Lirik-lirik yang ekspresif ala Gen Z yang ia ciptakan tak sekedar curhatan belaka, melainkan mampu menjadi komunikasi yang valid.

“Pesan itu tidak selalu disampaikan lewat teks panjang atau ceramah, menurut saya musik salah satu medium komunikasi ekspresif yang paling direct untuk menyentuh emosi,” ucap Farid saat ditanya alasan memilih karya musik untuk tugas akhir.

“Aku ingin buktikan kalau curhatan Gen Z bisa diubah menjadi produk komunikasi yang valid dan akademis, bukan sekadar curcol,” tambahnya.

Karya musik dengan genre pop house dipilih, baginya genre ini fleksibel. Dengan chorus pop diawali rap, lalu disusul verse melodik Wtlg adalah representasi isi kepala Gen Z.

Isu Quarter-Life Crisis yang Diekspresikan Lewat Lagu Wtlg

Lewat bimbingan salah satu dosen Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Anggi Arifudin Setiadi, S.I.Kom., M.I.Kom karya musik ini mengusung konsep sad banger, lagu dengan lirik emosional, melankolis namun irama beatnya energetik.  Dengan isu quarter life crisis, Wtlg ingin memvalidasi perasaan takut terhadap ekspektasi orang-orang.

“Isunya tentang quarter life crisis. Pesannya simpel, aku ingin memvalidasi perasaan bingung, takut, dan pusing sama ekspektasi orang-orang termasuk orang tua yang dirasain teman-teman Gen Z. Lewat lagu ini, aku mau bilang ‘It’s okay to be lost, kita bareng-bareng kok sesatnya’,” ujarnya.

Liriknya yang relatable dengan perasaan Gen Z ditulis dari pengalaman pribadi, riset, dan observasi. Sementara untuk produksi Farid mengaku semua dilakukan full home recording. Kolaborasi dengan berbagai pihak dilakukan untuk menyempurnakan karyanya. Ia menggandeng salah satu mahasiswa Ilmu Komunikasi untuk turut mengisi vokal.

Sementara untuk medium dengar, Farid memilih mendistribusikannya ke Instagram pribadi, Spotify pribadi, dan YouTube Ikonisia. Alasannya sederhana yakni mengikuti pasar Gen Z.

“Pasar lokal Gen Z memang nongkrongnya lebih rame di Spotify dan audio IG jadi buat aksesnya gampang untuk personal branding juga. Nah, kalau Video Live Session yang di YouTube Ikonisia TV itu sbenarnya untuk promosi saja agar jangkauannya lebih luas ke audiens kampus, sekalian referensi untuk anak-anak Ilkom lain yang ingin membuat konten visual musik yang kece hehe,” ucap Farid.

Meski demikian proses yang dilalui dalam produksi karya musik ini tak sederhana. Dengan serba keterbatasan seperti home recording di kos membuat kualitas audio tak sebening studio profesional. Selain itu, ia juga harus bekerja ekstra dalam hal durasi.

“Lagu-lagu sekarang kebanyakan cuma 1-3 menit, durasi 4 menit masuknya agak kelamanaan, sehingga tantangannya adalah gimana agar pendengar tetap menangkap pesannya tanpa kehilangan fokus atau attention span,” tambahnya.

Ia berharap karyanya tak berhenti di tugas akhir, Farid bermimpi ingin memperbaiki visual dari karya musiknya. Seperti menciptakan official music video berseri dengan pesan yang kuat.

“Visualnya sih, pengen banget membuat Official Music Video untuk lagu ini yang ada alur ceritanya, bukan cuma video lirik atau live session. Agar pesan quarter life crisis-nya makin nampol secara visual. Tapi kayaknya masih nantian deh, ngumpulin mood dulu,” tandasnya.

Selengkapnya dapat diakses melalui:

https://youtu.be/auoT8NTiKc4?si=QU8nJPCB-eu9Yka-

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Studium Generale 2025: Suara Mahasiswa untuk Demokrasi di Ruang Digital

Studium Generale 2025: Suara Mahasiswa untuk Demokrasi di Ruang Digital

Gen Z sebagai digital native menghabiskan waktu setidaknya lima jam per hari untuk berselancar di media sosial. Menurut survei yang dilakukan YouGov tahun 2025, aktivitas yang dilakukan Gen Z beragam mulai dari scrolling, join the trend, hingga menciptakan content. Dari 81 persen masyarakat Indonesia yang aktif bermedia sosial, 48 persennya adalah Gen Z. Jumlah yang dominan adalah peluang, lantas bagaimana cara membawanya kea rah positif?

Jurusan Ilmu Komunikasi UII, menggelar Studium Generale bertajuk “Suara Mahasiswa untuk Masa Depan” pada 15 November 2025 di Gedung Mohammad Natsir, UII untuk menyambut sekaligus memberikan pengalaman bertukar dalam forum yang lebih general dan memiliki keterkaitan dalam kajian Ilmu Komunikasi untuk mahasiswa baru.

“Sebagai mahasiswa baru, kita mendapat privilese akses, perjumpaan, dan kesempatan yang lengkap untuk belajar. Setelah melewati masa ujian, kita diingatkan bahwa menjadi mahasiswa berarti melampaui cara belajar yang biasa. Hari ini, lewat Studium Generale, kita disambut dalam forum umum yang memperluas perspektif sebuah ruang untuk memahami ilmu secara lebih menyeluruh,” ucap Kaprodi Ilmu Komunikasi UII, Dr. Zaki Habibi saat membuka agenda tersebut.

Ungkapan itu juga dipertegas oleh Nizamuddin Sadiq, Ph.D. selaku Wakil Dekan Bidang Keagamaan, Kemahasiswaan, dan Alumni, bahwa mahasiswa akan terus bertumbuh lewat kemandirian belajar, dengan penguatan dialog dan diskusi.

“Saya meyakini bahwa letak ‘kemahaan’ pada mahasiswa adalah dalam kemandirian belajar mereka yang tumbuh melalui proses, dialog, dan diskusi. Hari ini, saya kembali mempertanyakan relevansi demonstrasi di era digital jika dulu suara harus diteriakkan di jalan untuk didengar, kini ruang digital membuka cara baru untuk menyuarakan gagasan dan memperjuangkan demokrasi,” ujarnya.

Proses Gen Z Menemukan ‘Suaranya’ di Dunia Digital untuk Demokrasi

Menghadirkan dua pembicara yang aktif dalam dunia media digital, Retyan Sekar Nurani alumni sekaligus jurnalis Kumparan serta Ali Maaruf seorang penulis sekaligus kreator konten memberikan banyak perspektif unik dan orisinal.

Retyan Sekar meyoroti “Gen Z Bersuara di Dunia Digital” lewat pengalamannya menjadi jurnalis di awal pandemi Covid-19. Ekspektasinya, seorang jurnalis adalah sosok yang turun ke lapangan menghampiri narasumber. Namun kondisi yang dihadapinya berbeda, pambatasan bertemu fisik yang dilakukan pemerintah ternyata menjadi peluang baru baginya.

“Aku belajar menjadi jurnalis dengan transisi yang luar biasa [pandemi],” ungkapnya.

Ia menjelaskan kuatnya suara di platform digital hingga membuat semua pihak memiliki kesempatan yang sama. Meski demikian Gen Z sangat perlu mempelajari isu dan menguatkan konteks sebelum bersuara. Aktivisme bergeser dari demo jalanan menjadi digital activism, meski demikian esensi demokrasi terus menguat.

“Beberapa orang ingin menyuarakan tapi tidak tau diksinya. Kita punya priviledge. I meet medium to find out the voice, now digital activism,” tambahnya.

“Di era digital, akses, visibilitas, dan konektivitas suara sekcil apa pun dapat menjadi suara bersama. Tantangannya bukan soal berani bersuara, tapi kritis dan tidak ceroboh. Pikir sebelum memposting, verifikasi sebelum membagikan, dan lakukan dialog dan diskusi bukan perang digital,” tambah Retyan Sekar.

Hal senada diungkap oleh Ali Maaruf, ia menggunakan istilah “demorezim” untuk mengungkapkan perubahan bentuk demokrasi. Dari demo fisik yang kini punya banyak medium baru.  Ali menegaskan untuk menemukan “suara diri” yang khas dan orisinal lewat penerimaan diri.

Sebagai penulis dan kreator konten spesialis patah hati, karya-karyanya adalah kejujuran dalam bersuara. Dengan menggunakan konsep unique story proposition lewat penebalan persona, dan tone of voice.

Salah satu fenomena “Gejayan Memanggil” beberapa tahun silam menampilkan realita bahwawa kreativitas visual dan pesan yang lentur justru menjadi gelombang suara kolektif.

“Demokrasi hari ini tidak selalu turun ke jalan, suara kini punya banyak bentuk. Cara menemukannya, kita harus mengenali diri, memahami konteks, dan menciptakan cerita unik yang benar-benar milik kita,” ucap Ali Maaruf.

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The Bittersweet Side of Fast Fashion

Fast Fashion

There is nothing better than the feeling of owning a new outfit every week, but that excitement definitely comes with its own cost. The fast fashion industry produces clothes in massive quantities to meet ever-growing demand. Yet, at the point where its power expands, the harms begin to overlap with its benefits. This is where the bittersweet reality of fast fashion becomes clear. So, let’s dive deeper into both the bitter and sweet sides of this industry.

One of the most overlooked aspects of fast fashion is its severe environmental cost. From production to consumption, every stage of the process leaves a damaging footprint on the planet. The textile industry is the second-largest consumer of water in the world, using around 93 billion cubic meters annually—enough to meet the needs of five million people. The dyeing and treatment of fabrics account for 20% of global wastewater, often releasing toxic chemicals into rivers in countries with weak regulations. Cotton farming alone requires huge amounts of water and pesticides, which devastate local ecosystems. In terms of energy, the industry is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions, more than international flights and maritime shipping combined. 

On the consumer side, the culture of disposability makes the problem worse, with an estimated 85% of textiles ending up in landfills each year, where synthetic fibers release microplastics that pollute oceans and enter the food chain. The reality is that the affordability of fast fashion comes at a hidden cost, where one pays through polluted water, rising emissions, and long-term environmental damage.

Media and Online Influence on The Industry 

Another powerful driver of fast fashion’s growth is the influence of media and digital platforms. The fashion industry and media work hand in hand. While the industry provides a constant flow of new products, the media accelerates their visibility and demand. Social media, advertising, and influencers play a crucial role in setting trends that spread globally within hours, pushing consumers to buy not because of genuine need but because of the pressure to stay “in style.” This constant cycle shortens the lifespan of clothing, as what is fashionable today can quickly become outdated tomorrow. 

The Possibility of Change

Despite these challenges, the future of fashion does not have to remain bitter. Young consumers, especially Gen Z, are showing a growing interest in sustainable choices. Many are turning to thrifting, clothing options, and upcycling as alternatives to constantly buying new clothes. Others are more willing to support brands that are transparent about their production and use eco-friendly materials. 

Social media, while often fueling overconsumption, can also spread awareness and promote responsible trends when used positively. If more young people choose to value quality over quantity, and reuse rather than discard, they can shift demand and influence brands to adopt more sustainable practices. This shows that the sweet side of fast fashion lies in the possibility of change, led by conscious consumers.

Fast fashion is truly a bittersweet industry. While it offers affordability and easy access to trends, it also leaves behind deep environmental and social damage. Media and online platforms have fueled its rapid growth, but young people today have the power to slow it down and reshape it. The future of fashion depends on whether we choose short-term excitement or long-term sustainability.

References

Bick, R., Halsey, E., & Ekenga, C. C. (2018). The Global Environmental Injustice of Fast Fashion. Environmental Health, 17(1), 1–4. BMC. https://doi.org/10.1186/s12940-018-0433-7

Kontributor proyek Wikimedia. (2025, September 26). Fesyen cepat. Retrieved October 6, 2025, from Wikipedia.org website: https://id.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fesyen_cepat

Niinimäki, K. (2020, April). The environmental price of fast fashion. Retrieved from ResearchGate website: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/340635670_The_environmental_price_of_fast_fashion

Ren, X. (2023, February 7). Analysis on the Development of Fast Fashion- Based on the Influence of New Media. Retrieved from ResearchGate website: https://www.researchgate.net/publication/368369588_Analysis_on_the_Development_of_Fast_Fashion-_Based_on_the_Influence_of_New_Media

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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The Role of Visual Media in Shaping Gen Z’s Self-Image

The Role of Visual Media in Shaping Gen Z’s Self-Image

Generation Z, born between the late 1990s and early 2010s, is the first generation to grow up entirely in the digital era. From early childhood, they have been surrounded by smartphones, social media platforms, and a constant flow of images and videos.

Unlike earlier generations, their identity development has taken place in a world where visual media is not simply entertainment, but a dominant space for communication, self-expression, and social validation. The way they see themselves—and the way others see them—is now deeply intertwined with the images they share and consume online.

Social Comparison and Self-Perception

Visual media plays a powerful role in shaping how young people think about themselves. Social platforms are designed to encourage sharing, but they also foster constant comparison. Carefully designed posts and edited images often present an idealized version of life, leading viewers to measure themselves against unrealistic standards. Over time, this cycle of comparison can influence self-esteem, creating feelings of self-doubt. Feedback in the form of likes, comments, and follower counts reinforces the idea that appearance and presentation are central to self-worth. This dynamic mirrors a “digital looking-glass,” where identity is shaped through imagined perceptions of others.

 Constructing and Managing Online Identity

Beyond the images themselves, the way Gen Z constructs their online presence reveals much about their self-image. Many young people manage multiple accounts—some public and highly polished, others private and more authentic. This practice allows them to navigate the tension between societal expectations and personal truth. However, it also reflects the pressure to maintain a brand-like version of oneself online. While this made-up identity can be empowering, it can also be limiting, as it often prioritizes what is visually appealing or socially approved over what is genuine.

Influence of  Online Trends and Algorithm

Algorithms further shape Gen Z’s self-image by controlling the flow of visual content they encounter daily. Posts that are highly polished, trendy, or attention-grabbing are more likely to be promoted, setting the tone for what is considered desirable. Influencers and content creators—often presented as relatable “real people”—become powerful role models, shaping fashion choices, lifestyle aspirations, and even values. In many cases, young people unconsciously adjust their self-presentation to align with these trends, reinforcing the influence of visual culture on personal identity.

For Generation Z, growing up in a world filled with visual media has created both opportunities and challenges. On one hand, these platforms provide tools for creativity, connection, and self-expression. On the other hand, they can amplify social pressures, distort self-perception, and encourage dependence on external validation. The influence of visual media is not inherently negative, but it requires awareness and critical thinking to navigate. By understanding the mechanisms behind comparison, curated identity, and algorithm-driven trends, Gen Z can better balance their online presence with a healthy sense of self.

 

References

Kollárová, S., & Niklová, M. (2025). The Digital Identity of Generation Z (Drukarnia Poldruk, Józef Grzywa, Marek Kawka, Ed.). Poldruk s.c. Poland.

MyKaila Young. (2025). The Digital Coming of Age: How Social Media Shapes Self‑Concept and Worldview Across Generations. ejournals, 68(2), 262. https://ejournals.eu/en/journal/zeszyty-prasoznawcze/article/the-digital-coming-of-age-how-social-media-shapes-self-concept-and-worldview-across-generations

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Tantangan Milenial dan Gen Z di Indonesia ‘Ternyata Memang Berat’

Gen Z dan Milenial

Setuju tidak bahwa tantangan Milenial dan Gen Z tak main-main? Di luar soal privilege yang dimiliki, bagaimanapun tantangannya tak bisa dianggap sepele. Berbagai stereotip negatif mulai dari lemahnya mental hingga sumber masalah sosial tak henti-hentinya bergulir.

Data BPS menunjukkan jumlah Milenial dan Gen Z jika digabungkan adalah 53,81 persen. Jumlah ini ternyata menjadi bahan eksploitasi penuh hiperbola, Lika Liku Zilenial dari The Conversation menyebut dualitas generasi ini. Mereka disanjung tapi juga disangsikan. Mulai dari dimanfaatkan suaranya demi popularitas politisi, tapi ujungnya disalahkan publik atas sumber kegagalan pemerintah.

Tak berhenti di sana, ada persoalan rumit untuk bertahan hidup. Soal karier, banyak yang cukup ideal. Simak fakta berikut.

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AI Bisa Mengancam Industri Kreatif? Gen Z Cemas Gak?

Dinamika perkembangan artificial intelligence (AI) mengalami percepatan yang cukup signifikan. Dengan prompt yang tepat AI mampu menghasilkan gambar, viseo, hingga musik. Akankah hal tersebut berpotensi mengancam pekerjaan Gen Z di Industri kreatif?

Beberapa isu yang disoroti antara lain:

  1. Potensi penggantian pekerjaan oleh AI
  2. Kesenjangan keterampilan digital
  3. pentingnya kolaborasi manusia dan AI
  4. Dampak etis dan sosial
  5. Perlunya pendidikan dan pelatihan

Selamat mendengarkan Comms!

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The Fear of Missing Out: Why Gen Z Struggles with FOMO and How to Overcome It

The Fear of Missing Out: Why Gen Z Struggles with FOMO and How to Overcome It

Have you ever questioned the side effects of being part of this fast-paced generation? Growing up in a world dominated by social media and rapidly changing trends, it’s no surprise that FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) has become a defining issue for Gen Z, a generation often seen as materialistic and easily influenced. FOMO can be simply defined as the fear or anxiety of missing out on important events or life decisions that could have a positive impact. While this phenomenon can affect people of any age, Gen Z struggles with it the most due to the constant exposure to social media and the pressure to keep up with trends.

When exploring why FOMO is a common phenomenon among Gen Z, the main causes are social media influence and comparison culture. These factors make them feel as if they are constantly missing out, leading to dissatisfaction with their current lives. Moreover, FOMO can impact various aspects of life, including lifestyle choices and spending habits. A 2023 report by Credit Karma revealed that 40% of people—especially Gen Z—overspend and go into debt to keep up with their friends and escape the feeling of being left out.This cycle of comparison, spending, and dissatisfaction fuels a never-ending loop of FOMO, making it a defining struggle for Gen Z.

Beyond its effects on lifestyle and spending habits, FOMO also significantly impacts Gen Z’s productivity by making it difficult to focus on long-term goals. The constant urge to stay updated on social media or attend every event leads to frequent distractions, reducing their ability to concentrate on academic or professional tasks. Instead of dedicating time to self-improvement or career development, many prioritize short-term gratification, such as scrolling through social media or participating in unnecessary social activities. Additionally, FOMO can cause procrastination and indecisiveness, as individuals delay important tasks out of fear that they might miss out on something better. This cycle of distraction and hesitation not only lowers productivity but also increases stress and burnout.

I experienced this firsthand during my last year of high school. I felt pressured to take extra chemistry courses simply because most of my classmates were doing so. Even though I knew my school lessons were sufficient, I followed the crowd, which disrupted my study schedule and consumed more of my time. As a result, I became overwhelmed, and a month before my final exams, I was too burned out to study effectively. I had focused more on what others were doing instead of what actually worked for me.

Ultimately, FOMO doesn’t just affect emotions—it creates a pattern of inefficiency and lack of direction, making it harder for Gen Z to stay committed to personal and professional growth.

The best way to overcome FOMO is by practicing mindfulness and focusing on the present. Instead of constantly worrying about what others are doing, Gen Z should prioritize genuine experiences that bring them happiness, regardless of how they appear online. It is also essential to recognize that social media does not reflect reality—people only share their highlights, not their struggles. Understanding this can help shift the focus from comparison to self-acceptance. Additionally, setting healthy digital boundaries, such as limiting social media use or taking breaks, can reduce FOMO and improve overall well-being. By embracing self-awareness and personal fulfillment, Gen Z can break free from the cycle of constantly chasing what they think they’re missing out on.

FOMO has become a major issue for Gen Z due to social media and digital culture, fueling anxiety and dissatisfaction. However, by practicing mindfulness, setting digital boundaries, and prioritizing real-life experiences, it’s possible to break free from this cycle. Start small—take a social media break, practice gratitude, or focus on real connections. Embracing the present is the key to overcoming FOMO and living a more fulfilling life.

 

 

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?

Why did TikTok Become Gen Z’s Search Engine?

In recent years, the way people search for information has changed significantly. The rapid growth of social media platforms has transformed the search experience by offering quick, visual, and personalized content. Among these platforms, according to the Fix article TikTok has emerged as a go-to source for information, especially for Generation Z.

This generation prefers dynamic and interactive experiences over static ones, making TikTok more than just an entertainment platform for them. The days of relying solely on search engines like Google and libraries are slowly disappearing.

One of the primary reasons Gen Z prefers TikTok as a search engine is the vast variety of content it offers. Unlike traditional search engines that mainly provide text-based links, TikTok presents information in short-form video format, making it more personalized and engaging. This unique approach allows users to access multiple sources for their questions easily.

For Generation Z, who have grown up in the digital age, TikTok is a familiar and effective platform. The content available on TikTok covers a wide variety of topics, including tutorials, life hacks, and in-depth explorations of different interests. Users can find videos on everything from quick meal preparation and study tips to product reviews. TikTok’s algorithm curates personalized feeds, presenting users with content based on their previous interactions, which makes the information they encounter highly relevant and tailored to their interests.

Another reason TikTok works for Gen Z is the trust they place in its content. Many users feel a connection with creators who share relatable, real-life experiences. This authenticity makes TikTok seem more trustworthy than traditional sources, which often feel distant or impersonal. While misinformation is a concern, Gen Z often balances this by cross-checking facts or consulting multiple sources.

Rania is one of Gen z, she said that ‘She thinks that most of the gen z can’t stand reading for hours or watching long videos to get information, Tiktok provide really short videos which is good for people that can be distracted easily, also she read in an article that most of gen z suffer from shrinking attention span (Snow, 2023), that make them struggle to finish movies or the books they read overall TikTok is the only platform that catch their attention, and seems to be customized to their needs’’.

In conclusion, TikTok has changed the way Generation Z searches for information. Its fast-paced, engaging format, relatable creators, and authentic content make it an ideal platform for a generation that values speed, simplicity, and trust. As search habits continue to evolve, TikTok’s influence on how we consume information is undeniable.

References:

Marzano, E. (2024, 11 1). Retrieved from The Fix: https://thefix.media/2024/11/1/relatable-real-raw-tiktoks-power-in-news-for-gen-z

Snow, S. (2023, January 16). Forbes. Retrieved from https://www.forbes.com/sites/shanesnow/2023/01/16/science-shows-humans-have-massive-capacity-for-sustained-attention-and-storytelling-unlocks-it/?sh=729b67281a38

Written by: Thrya Abdulraheem Motea Al-aqab

Edited by: Meigitaria Sanita

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Podcast Jadi Konten Digital yang Diminati Gen Z dan Milenial, Indonesia Jadi Negara dengan Pendengar Terbanyak

Podcast

Podcast menjadi konten digital yang diminati anak muda di Indonesia. Pendengarnya didominasi oleh Gen Z dan Milenial. Selain isu yang dibicarakan menarik, podcast dapat diakses dan didengarkan sembari melakukan aktivitas secara multitasking. Paling sering podcast diakses ketika dalam perjalanan, saat bekerja, ataupun ketika menulis.

Konten-konten yang ada pada podcast memiliki berbagai genre, dari politik hingga komedi. Hal ini membuat podcast menjadi konten alternatif yang digemari karena menyajikan diskusi dari berbagai sudut pandang yang ringan namun mendalam. Hal ini terbukti dari jumlah pendengarnya yang selalu meningkat.

Rincian terkait pendengar podcast di Indonesia yang dirilis oleh Databoks Katadata tahun 2021enyebut 22,1 persen pendengar berusia 15-19 tahun, 22,2 persen berusia 20-24 tahun, 19,9 persen usia 25-29 tahun, 15,7 persen berusia 30-34 tahun, usia 35-39 tahun sebanyak 11,8 persen, dan 40-44 tahun sekitar 8,4 persen. Dari data tersebut artinya semakin menurun seiring bertambahnya usia.

Lantas apa itu podcast? Podcast adalah produksi audio digital yang diunggah pada platform online (paling sering website) untuk dibagikan dengan orang lain. Audio tersebut dapat diakses langsung melalui smartphone maupun perangkat komputer lainnya. Istilah podcast berasal dari broadcasting dan ipod. Memahami podcasting tentu berkaitan dengan konten audio dan berbeda dari format video yang memperkenalkan istilah vodcasting. Meski demikian podcasting dapat merujuk pada audio dan video untuk pemahaman yang komprehensif. (Hutabarat, 2020)

Indonesia Masuk Sebagai 10 Negara yang Paling Banyak Mendengar Podcast

Salah satu platform audio lokal non musik, Noice termasuk yang populer di Indonesia. Melansir dari laman Antara, Noice telah digunakan lebih dari lima juta pengguna di Indonesia. Mengenai konten-konten yang diproduksi tak diragukan lagi, mulai dari kondisi perpolitikan di Indonesia, cerita horor, hingga cerita sehari-hari yang sangat relate dengan pendengar.

“Podcast audio berupaya untuk menghadirkan screenless moment yang menyenangkan bagi semua pendengar,” Ujar Niken Sasmaya CEO Noice pada Antara.

Produksi Podcast cukup menjanjikan, laporan dari We Are Social 2024, jumlah pengguna internet global yang mendengar podcast sebesar 20,6 persen. Dari jumlah tersebut Indonesia menempati posisi kedua yakni sebesar 38,2 persen, posisi teratas negara Brasil yakni 39,7 persen.

Tiga podcast yang paling populer di Indonesia antara laian Curhat Bang Denny Sumargo, Mata Najwa, dan Close the Door. (Databoks Katadata)

Tertarik Mendengarkan Podcast?

Tak sekedar hiburan, banyak informasi yang akan didapatkan pendengar ketika mengkses konten pada podcast. Riset menunjukkan podcast memiliki dampak yang besar pada dunia pendidikan. Pertama menjadi sumber pengajaran yang inovatif bagi pengajar, kedua mampu membantu proses pembelajaran baik di dalam maupun luar kelas, dan terakhir meningkatkan kesiapan dan persiapan calon pengajar.

Selain dalam segi pendidikan, podcast sangat menguntungkan bagi para pengiklan. Edison Research merilis The Podcast Consumer 2024 menyebut selama satu dekade jumlah pendengar podcast meningkat empat kali lipat. Pendengar podcast adalah audiens yang berpendidikan dan memiliki tingkat ekonomi menengah ke atas. 56 persen pendengar podcast bulanan memiliki pendapatan rumah tangga tahunan lebih dari $ 75 ribu, dibandingkan dengan 48 persen populasi AS, dan 49 persen pendengar podcast bulanan berpendidikan tinggi dibandingkan dengan 44 persen populasi AS.

Bagaimana menurutmu terkait fakta-fakta terkait podcast, tertarik untuk turut mendengar dan meramaikan produksi konten podcast Comms?