Getting the youth to vote!
How to get people to vote?
In the recent election in Ontario, voter turnout was the lowest on record. There has been considerable media discussion as to why. The answer is simple, in my view; governments need
to change their top down approach to a much more collaborative model where the youth market is encouraged to drive the value creation process from beginning to end. It means talking to the youth in their language and coming to grips with the fact that it is a different world today. Things need to be cool and they need to be hi-tech, including the process of voting.
As we all know, we are now in times of unprecedented change; socially, economically and
culturally! Based upon our studies of the 20 to 40 demographics (37% of the population) for TecVana,we realize that we are dealing with a new age market that is much different
than any previous generation. The generation gap is huge.
Today’s technology savvy youth demographics are indeed changing the way the world works and seeks information. Their lifestyle is very hectic, fast paced and complex. They have little or no interest in traditionalism or voting in the traditional manner. They want things to be fast, simple, convenient, fun, easy and cool. They manage their lifestyle through technology, seek “escapism” through integration and social networking, want to stay connected and tend to thrive in
gaming and chat rooms.
This new generation is our future and should be empowered to help shape the future. We know that they do want to make a difference, want to change the world, certainly want a voice in its direction
and believe in supporting worthy causes that will make a difference. Engagement with this demographic will result in a new way of doing business that will create value, growth, jobs, long term economic and social development as well as economic sustainability
Governments must therefore redefine their approach in order to align with the lifestyle of the
younger generation. In order to get this modern demographics involved in voting, they have to engage to find out what they want. They have to listen, understand and involve. They will have to create the experience in close cooperation and relationship with this citizen – tapping their intellectual capital and give them a direct say in the solution.
If they had taken the time to listen then they would realize that getting more people involved in voting they need to put the process on-line. I mean it is a digital world so why doesn’t the government provide on-line voting rather than the historical and traditional voting poll stations.
Make the process simple, easy, convenient, fun and most importantly,based upon emerging trends, not the past. It is time to abandon traditionalism!
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