How do different age groups interact online?

Following tonight’s announcement by Facebook that it has partnered with Skype to offer video chat, I was reminded of an infographic I came across last night. I think it is fascinating as it highlights how different age groups interact online and I thought I’d share it.  If you click on the image it will open bigger in the original site so you can look at it properly.

Being born in 1980, and depending on which definition of age (Gen X/Y/Millennials) you rely on, it always intrigues me to read how I am “meant” to be communicating. I used Skype for the first time last week as I was abroad and wanted to call home, so am certainly late to that party. But as with most tools, finding the reason for me to use it is usually the hook I need to explore it properly.

I like the section which highlights age-based behaviour on Facebook. It particularly resonated with me based on how I see my personal network interacting and communicating. I would be interested to see an updated infographic in the future incorporating the new video chat feature to see how it is used. I’m sure there must be similar Skype stats around.

From an internal communications perspective, could you produce a similar infographic of how your employees/stakeholders interact? Do you think that knowing your audience interactions by age is important or do you think it creates stereotypes? I’d be interested to hear your thoughts.

Post author: Rachel.