A New Era of Online Shopping 

Move over millennials; Gen Z is redefining the e-commerce shopping culture with their distinct shopping behaviors. Unlike previous generations, Gen Z—those born between 1997 and 2012—shun traditional advertising methods. 

Instead, they turn to influencers, TikTok trends, and social proof when deciding what to buy. A Nielsen study revealed that 70% of Gen Z trusts influencers over celebrity endorsements. Their decisions aren’t based solely on brand loyalty but on authenticity and alignment with their values.

A Look at Gen Z’s Shopping Habits 

What sets Gen Z apart is their preference for immersive and interactive shopping experiences. They don’t just buy products; they buy stories and values. Brands that incorporate sustainability, diversity, and ethical practices into their messaging resonate deeply with this audience.

Moreover, Gen Z is incredibly tech-savvy. They’re early adopters of augmented reality (AR) for virtual try-ons, voice search for quick purchases, and gamified shopping experiences that make buying fun. 

According to a Shopify report, 62% of Gen Z shoppers are more likely to buy from brands offering AR experiences. Their focus isn’t just on the end product but also on how enjoyable the journey to purchase can be.

Another striking feature of Gen Z’s shopping behavior is their reliance on peer reviews and micro-communities. Platforms like Reddit and Discord serve as hubs where Gen Z discusses and evaluates products. These online spaces allow them to engage in honest, unfiltered discussions, making their purchasing decisions more informed and deliberate.

The Rise of Social Commerce 

Gen Z’s love for social media has paved the way for the growth of social commerce. Platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest have become mini-marketplaces where users can discover, research, and purchase without ever leaving the app. 

TikTok’s #TikTokMadeMeBuyIt trend, for instance, has turned countless products into viral sensations, driving millions in sales almost overnight.

This generation’s unique approach to shopping also emphasizes speed and convenience. From same-day deliveries to seamless checkout options, Gen Z expects brands to meet their high standards for efficiency. 

But while convenience is key, they’re also willing to wait for exclusive drops or limited-edition products, showcasing their enthusiasm for experiences that feel unique and tailored.

The Affiliate Connection 

This generational shift has opened new doors for affiliate marketers. In a world where Gen Z seeks genuine product recommendations, affiliates—especially influencers—have become pivotal. 

They bridge the gap between brands and this discerning demographic by providing personalized, relatable content that resonates. But as affiliate marketing becomes more vital, so does the need for a fair and transparent system to reward those influencing the buyer journey.

How ReferZone Empowers Affiliates to Thrive 

At ReferZone, we recognize that today’s affiliate marketing requires more than the basic last-click attribution model. Why? Because Gen Z’s shopping journey involves multiple touchpoints. 

A typical path might look like this: they see a TikTok review, click on an Instagram story link, and finish by reading a blog post before purchasing. Each touchpoint plays a critical role in guiding their decision.

That’s where ReferZone’s advanced multitouch attribution system steps in. Here’s how it helps affiliates:

1. Fair Commission Distribution: Multitouch attribution ensures that all affiliates influencing a sale—whether they’re the first touch, middle touch, or closer—are rewarded fairly. This transparency motivates affiliates to create quality content without worrying about being overlooked.
2. Advanced Tracking Tools: With features like webhooks and APIs, affiliates can monitor their impact at every stage of the buyer’s journey. Knowing how they contribute empowers them to refine their strategies and engage Gen Z more effectively.
3. Collaboration Opportunities: ReferZone’s ecosystem encourages partnerships between influencers and traditional affiliates, enabling a combined effort to capture Gen Z’s attention.

Why This Matters 

Gen Z is not just reshaping e-commerce but also how affiliates operate. With their preference for authentic and impactful recommendations, they’re pushing brands and marketers to adopt tools like ReferZone to remain competitive. As an affiliate, adapting to Gen Z’s habits isn’t just a strategy; it’s a necessity.

Join the Revolution 

The future of online shopping is here, and it’s being led by Gen Z. Their demand for authenticity and trust is already transforming ecommerce. With ReferZone’s innovative tools, affiliates can not only meet these expectations but thrive in this new era. Ready to maximize your impact? Join ReferZone today by signing up here.