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I have been thinking a lot lately about how my social media pie is being divided, and how it shapes up compared to those of others. Compared to two or three years ago, I spend less and less time now with Facebook and more with Twitter and Instagram, but I know one of the most-used platforms among AAMA members is LinkedIn. I also know that, as a millennial, my social media diet varies from that of, say, my dad, who primarily checks Facebook and has no Twitter or Instagram account.

We put a lot of focus on how to market to younger generations as well as how to handle them in the workplace, but it’s not a bad idea to know how Baby Boomers are using their time online, as well. I know I’m curious, especially from the standpoint of knowing what social media needs and questions AAMA members may have.

Earlier this year, Personal Money Service gave a generational (and other criteria) breakdown of social media by the numbers. Here are some interesting takeaways:

  • As of October 2016, there were 60 million Facebook business pages existing on the platform.
  • An estimated 67 percent of Gen X-ers use online reviews to make purchase decisions.
  • There are more Millennial women on Facebook (and Pinterest) than men, but men use YouTube more than women.
  • Gen X represents $200 billion in buying power.
  • Baby Boomers spend 27 hours a week online; 15 percent of them spend 11+ of those hours on Facebook.
  • About 48 percent of Baby Boomers rely on credit cards.
  • Millennials prefer that brands and companies reach out to them via email instead of other channels.
    Generation Z, which is too young to be buying fenestration products just yet, is really into Instagram and not so much interested in Facebook. They currently make up about 22 percent of the nation’s population.


Generational differences are often looked down on, but it’s important to have a good handle on them to better understand your customer base – and your future customer base.

This study got me interested in doing a poll of my own, specific to our industry. Tweet us and let us know what social media platforms you’re using. As always, feel free to reach out to me with any questions you may have!