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If the coronavirus pandemic has severely impacted your small business, you’re not alone. Countless businesses across the US had to close their doors, were allowed to reopen at a limited capacity, and are now facing the threat of having to close down again. And some have been forced to stay shuttered the whole time.
What’s more, no one knows how long this pandemic or its aftereffects are going to last. In fact, 81 percent of the small companies surveyed by the global payments network Veem stated that they anticipate the pandemic will impact their company for the next 12 to 16 months at least.
One thing is for sure, however: If your non-essential small business is going to make it through this storm, you will need to evaluate your business plan and make the necessary adjustments. Ramping up your marketing efforts is a prime example — here at Branding Creatively, we offer a full range of solutions from branding to web design. You’ll also want to check out the tips below for more ways to survive and thrive.
Keep Everyone Productive
If you’re like countless other small companies, you’re embracing remote work at one level or another. While this can be beneficial for your business, it only works well if everyone on your team stays productive.
- Be sure to establish guidelines for communication and collaboration among your team members, such as when each employee should be available and how to have successful meetings.
- Equip each team member with the proper remote work tools, whether it’s project management software, team chat apps, video conferencing software, time tracking tools, or any other types of tools necessary for daily tasks.
- Also, prioritize developing and maintaining positive company culture, since this can be challenging when you can’t see everyone in person.
- And be sure to demonstrate to your employees that you trust them and appreciate the efforts they bring to your business.
Set Up a Home Office
As a small business owner in an online world, it’s essential that you have a space at home where you can productively work when necessary.
- If the flooring needs an upgrade, make sure you choose an option that’s both comfortable and appropriate for the type of office you’re designing.
- Invest in high-quality office equipment, such as an ergonomic chair, a reliable computer, and a desk that comfortably fits the rest of your equipment.
- Make sure your office has adequate lighting, including task lights and natural light.
- Make the space yours by painting it your favorite color and adding personal items like family photos and artwork.
Focus on Reaching Customers
Customers are the backbone of any successful business, so think of ways that you can serve your current customers and attract new ones.
- Make sure you communicate with your customers about what your company is doing in response to the pandemic.
- Utilize social media for connecting with customers, marketing your business, and building your brand.
- Collaborate with freelancers by posting job ads on freelance job sites; this way, various customer-centric projects can get done more quickly.
In order for your small business to brave this pandemic, you have to be willing to make adjustments. Remember to prioritize productivity among your team, create a comfortable space for when you need to work from home, and think of ways that you can connect with your customers. Implementing these tips not only can help you survive these uncertain times, but they can set you up for long-term success.
