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How do you sell to older people?
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You don’t. They already know about it.
It’s not just millennials who want to hookup online. Older folks also enjoy the convenience of online dating. And while younger generations may prefer the novelty of meeting strangers at bars or clubs, older adults often prefer the security of knowing exactly whom they’re talking to.
As such, online dating platforms have become increasingly attractive to mature audiences. In fact, according to one study, nearly half of Americans aged 50 and above have tried online dating services.
And while younger generations may prefer to meet new people via social media or chat rooms, older adults often prefer to meet new people in real life. As such, online dating platforms offer a convenient alternative for them.
So why aren’t older people flocking to online dating sites?
Because they’ve already met their soul mates.
Online dating websites are great for young people because they provide a fresh opportunity to connect with potential partners. But once you’ve found your ideal mate, you’re unlikely to look elsewhere.
Older people, however, have already found their soul mates. Online dating is therefore less appealing to them. Instead, they’re likely to stick with the traditional methods of meeting new friends, colleagues, neighbors, etc.
What’s more, older people tend to be more selective about their romantic relationships. They’re looking for long term partnerships, rather than casual encounters. That makes online dating platforms less relevant to them.
But what if you want to target older people specifically?
There are several ways to reach out to this demographic. For example, you could create a niche site focused on older people. Or you could focus on specific age groups within your audience.
Or you could simply market to older people directly.
Don’t assume they’re too old to buy
Older people aren’t necessarily too old to buy. They just need to be convinced that your product or service is worth buying.
There are many ways to convince them. One method is to use testimonials. People who’ve bought your product or used your services tend to be very honest when sharing their experiences.
Another effective technique is to offer free samples. This works especially well if you’re selling food items because older people often prefer tasting foods over reading labels.
If you’re selling non-food items, consider offering coupons or discounts. Older people appreciate getting special deals.
Focus on their needs, not just wants
Older people tend to be very frugal. They’re looking for value, not just price. So when selling to them, focus on providing value, rather than trying to sell at too cheap a price.
They may need help finding things online, so offer to search for them. Offer to send them emails with helpful tips and information. And remember, older people often prefer email over snail mail because they can easily unsubscribe.
If you’re going to sell to older people, consider offering them free shipping. Older people are more likely to spend money on items that come in boxes, especially if they’ve paid for shipping.
Offer them something unique
Older people are notoriously fickle when it comes to buying things online. They’re not interested in flashy websites, fancy graphics, or gimmicks. Instead, they prefer simple, straightforward sites that offer value.
That’s where you come in. Older people are looking for information, support, and guidance. Offer them something unique that helps them solve problems or find answers.
If you’re selling a product, offer free shipping and a 30 day return policy. These features help older people feel safe and secure enough to purchase online.
If you’re offering services, include a phone number and email address. This makes it easy for older people to contact you directly.
Finally, be honest. Don’t pretend to be someone you’re not. Older people know when someone is trying to scam them, and they won’t hesitate to tell you.
Give them a reason to choose you
Older people are often overlooked when it comes to selling to them. But there are many reasons why this group should be targeted.
First, older people tend to spend more than younger consumers. They’re also more willing to pay for quality goods and services. And finally, they’re more loyal to brands because they’ve been buying those same brands for years.
Second, older people are more likely to use social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. So, if you create content that appeals to them, they’re more likely to share it with friends and family. This means you reach a wider audience and build brand loyalty at the same time.
Third, older people are more interested in technology than younger generations. They’re also more comfortable with online shopping and prefer to shop via email rather than phone calls.
Fourth, older people are more educated than younger generations. They may not have college degrees, but they still have some level of knowledge about current events, politics, and consumer behavior.
Fifth, older people are more affluent than younger generations. They typically have more disposable income, so they’re more likely to purchase expensive items.
Sixth, older people are very active. They’re more likely to participate in community activities, volunteer, and attend church.
Finally, older people are more trusting. They’re more likely than younger generations to believe advertising claims and recommendations made by others.
So, how do you target these groups? First, you need to understand who they are. Then, you need to find out where they hang out. Finally, you need to figure out what interests them. Once you’ve done that, you can craft messages that appeal to them.
For example, here are six ways to attract older people:
1) Create content that appeals to them. Older people are more likely to trust information presented in writing. Therefore, you should include plenty of written content on your site.
2) Offer freebies. Give away coupons, samples, or discounts to entice older people to visit your site.
Final point
Don’t forget about older consumers when you plan your marketing strategies. They’re still buying products and services, so you need to find ways to reach out to them.