Gen Z has been making waves on TikTok with their latest trend of writing marketing scripts that older generations are eager to jump on board with. These videos feature older individuals trying to mimic Gen Z slang while promoting various products or services, resulting in a mix of cringey yet endearing content that has garnered millions of views.
The phenomenon of older generations adopting Gen Z slang reflects a larger trend of intergenerational dynamics playing out on social media platforms. From the rise of the “OK boomer” meme to the current trend of marketing script videos, different age groups are engaging in playful banter and cultural exchange online. While some may see this as a lighthearted way to bridge generational gaps, others view it as a form of appropriation or commodification of youth culture.
It’s important to note that much of the slang used by Gen Z in these videos is not actually exclusive to their generation. Terms like “slay” and “serving” have roots in Black and Latinx ball culture and have been circulating for decades before going mainstream. Even newer terms like “Rizz,” popularized by internet personalities, can quickly lose their original meaning when co-opted for marketing purposes.
The evolution of language and cultural references on TikTok reflects a broader shift in how different generations interact online. While millennials may be more passive observers of these trends, Gen Z has emerged as a vocal and creative force shaping internet culture. By reclaiming and repurposing existing slang, they are asserting their identity and pushing back against perceived stereotypes and misconceptions.
Challenges of Intergenerational Communication
The rise of the “Gen Z writes the marketing script” trend highlights the complexities of intergenerational communication in the digital age. As older individuals attempt to engage with younger audiences using their language and humor, they run the risk of coming across as inauthentic or out of touch. While some may see this as a harmless form of entertainment, others view it as a reflection of broader power dynamics and cultural appropriation.
The tension between different generations on TikTok is not unique to this platform. Similar dynamics play out across social media, with each age group bringing its own perspectives and experiences to the table. As Gen Z continues to assert its influence and shape online culture, older generations are forced to reckon with their own relationship to technology and youth culture.
The Impact of TikTok Trends on Cultural Exchange
The proliferation of TikTok trends like “Gen Z writes the marketing script” underscores the platform’s role as a cultural melting pot where ideas and influences collide. As users from different age groups interact and collaborate on content, new forms of expression and creativity emerge. While some may see this as a form of cultural appropriation, others view it as a natural evolution of language and communication in the digital age.
The ability of TikTok trends to transcend generational boundaries highlights the platform’s potential as a space for meaningful dialogue and exchange. By engaging with diverse perspectives and experiences, users can challenge their own assumptions and broaden their understanding of the world around them. As TikTok continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how different generations navigate these dynamics and shape the platform’s cultural landscape.
