The first wave of the pandemic left humanity deeply concerned about how things will work under completely unexpected circumstances. In spite of gloomy predictions, though, businesses are still opened and run as we speak. The human power to adapt and overcome difficulties is even greater in challenging times such as these.
Even when it seems too difficult to handle, there are several things you can do to preserve and stabilize your small business in these trying times. Here are the practices you should consider implementing.
Be focused and present, more than ever before
This advice may seem a bit redundant at this point, and you might be thinking: isn’t this something I’ve always done? Still, in times like these, you should be brutally honest with yourself. How much of your attention is really focused on your business, and is there space for (significant) improvement?
Whether you run a business on your own or you have a partner and/or employees as well, your dedication is what makes or breaks the flow. If you were even a bit casual about planning your growth, creating your marketing strategy, or ensuring excellent customer support, now is the time to get all in. Nothing should be left to chance.
Shift the focus to the available online alternatives
Not all businesses have a shot at going completely online: this depends on numerous factors that should be considered. However, the world was shifting towards online products, services, and deliveries long before the pandemic changed the world as we know it, so think of the situation as a chance to readjust and rise to the occasion.
If there is absolutely no way to adapt your services to fit the digital environment, make sure to communicate with your audience regularly to encourage them to keep buying from you. Put an emphasis on the protective measures you will implement and never fail to show you put your customers’ health above all else, said Lisa N. From mimy online blog.
Reimagine the employee roles and obligations
As the professional landscape changes, the workforce must follow. Before letting go of some of your employees, however, try to consider how their job description could alter to help keep your business afloat.
If you manage to reimagine some roles, your company can stay in good hands, while your employees will be grateful for getting to keep their jobs. This will raise their confidence in you as a leader and make them more motivated to fight for the survival and success of the company you’re building together.
Rethink your employment strategy
Although new hirings might not be on your mind right now, taking in an intern to help with some organizational work can be a good idea for some small businesses. You could have them working from home and as part-time assistance, which might be very useful during the transition to online practices.
Don’t put all eggs in one basket
The COVID-19 pandemic is still going to present a tangible threat for a foreseeable future, but make sure not to focus on creating contingency plans for this threat only.
When you start feeling exhausted and like you’re fighting on all fronts at the same time, remember that, pandemic or not, that’s what being an entrepreneur was always all about. Stay focused, motivate your employees, and create realistic plans, so you can keep your business up and running in the years to come.
