A New Demographic of Customers: Understanding Gen X

In the ever-evolving funeral profession, staying ahead of demographic shifts is crucial for providing the highest level of care to families. As Baby Boomers age, Gen X has become the primary caretaker for end-of-life affairs. Understanding their unique characteristics is key to building trusted relationships during the arrangement process and beyond. In this article, you’ll uncover Gen X’s needs and discover how Cadence offers a solution that bridges the gap between generations.

The Change Over of Generations

Gen X, born between 1965-80, has grown accustomed to technological innovation throughout their lives. Unlike their Baby Boomer counterparts, they are often tech-savvy, heavily reliant on digital tools in their daily routines, and often early adopters of cutting edge technologies. This reliance on technology shapes their expectations and preferences in many aspects of life, including funeral planning.

The Unique Characteristics of Gen X

Understanding the specific needs and wants of Gen X is key to providing exceptional service. This generation:

• Practicality: Finding ways to save time and effort offers a major appeal to Gen X. Often choosing to prioritize convenience and independence, they seek to work through tasks as efficiently as possible. 
• Digitally Minded: Growing up adjusting to consistently changing technological trends, they have become digital natives. When communicating and navigating challenges, they will often turn to digital solutions.
• Trust Oriented: As a generation that values brand loyalty, Gen X seeks strong connections with trusted professionals. They often read reviews and browse websites thoroughly before choosing to engage with a business.

Why Understanding Gen X Matters To Funeral Professionals

With the influx of Gen X clients, it’s vital that funeral professionals adapt their offerings to meet the unique preferences and service expectations of a new generation. Without adapting to their needs, it could hinder relationships and jeopardize client satisfaction in the arrangement and estate administration process. With that in mind, establishing strong connections with Gen X will result in long-term loyalty, trust, and positive experiences they will share with others.

Cadence: Your Partner in Serving Gen X

Cadence is here to enhance funeral professional’s offerings in a way that better suits the needs of Gen X. We offer a digital, grief-informed estate administration solution for pre-need and at-need families, ensuring that your services remain relevant and valuable.

Cadence's services are customizable to fit the feel of your business, ensuring that families receive a seamless extension of your brand's care and expertise. By offering a technology-forward approach, Gen X can build a connection to your funeral home while gaining the independence, control, and convenience they value. 

The Executor Assistant

The Executor Assistant provides a comprehensive, tailored, and interactive roadmap to guide families through estate administration. This service includes access to grief support and knowledgeable support specialists, ensuring that families feel cared for every step of the way. Through this process, families build a connection to your funeral home and recognize the value of planning ahead with you, fostering retention with Gen X.

The Legacy Planner

Our pre-planning tool offers a convenient way for families to start thinking about their future, allowing them to easily add essential information, arrange key contacts, and plan the hand-off of responsibilities. 

Conclusion

As the industry experiences a demographic shift, ensuring your funeral home is ready to meet the needs of Gen X is essential. With a preference for online solutions and convenient options from businesses they trust, Gen X requires a new level of care and attention. Cadence helps fill this gap by offering a comprehensive aftercare solution that families and funeral professionals can trust. Stay ahead of the curve and continue providing exceptional service to an evolving generation of customers.

‍Book a demo with a Cadence representative today to learn how we can help you, your funeral home, and the families you serve.