Forget the shoes and the diamonds, buy her a flat-screen TV.
A recent survey found that three out of four American women would prefer a plasma screen to a glittering necklace.
The survey, entitled (I love this) Girls Gone Wired, found that 77 per cent of women would prefer a plasma screen to a diamond solitaire necklace, 56 would prefer a plasma screen over a weekend vacation in Florida, and (believe it or not) 86 per cent would prefer a new digital video camera to a new pair of designer shoes.
The survey, commissioned by the Oxygen cable TV network, also found that the technology gap between men and women is closing. On average, women were found to own 6.6 technology devices, compared with 6.9 for men.
"People make the assumption that women are not as advanced as men when it comes to technology and I was surprised at the parity men and women now have in terms of technology," said Geraldine Laybourne, chairman and chief executive of Oxygen Network.
The study found that over the next five years women will increase their activities in six tech areas: digital cameras, cell phones, e-mail, camera phones, text messaging and instant messaging.
Marketers, start your engines...
Girls Gone Wired
Technology Gender Gap Closing Fast
Trend Themes
1. Closing Gender Technology Gap - Opportunity for companies to develop and market tech products that cater to women's preferences and needs.
2. Preference for Technology Over Luxury Goods - Potential for businesses to tap into the growing market of women who prioritize technology over traditional luxury items.
3. Increased Technological Engagement - Opportunity for companies to create innovative tech solutions to meet the growing demands of women in areas such as digital cameras, cell phones, and messaging.
Industry Implications
1. Consumer Electronics - Companies can capitalize on the trend by developing and promoting tech products specifically designed for women.
2. Luxury Goods - Opportunity for luxury brands to incorporate technology into their offerings and appeal to women who prioritize it over traditional luxury items.
3. Telecommunications - Telecom companies can cater to the growing demands of women in tech areas such as cell phones and messaging by offering tailored products and services.