The bad news is the world is enduring a global pandemic. The good news is you’re a small business.
I realize it doesn’t feel like good news right now, but it is.
Being small means, you can pivot and adjust a lot quicker than large corporations. So, I’d like to offer you five tips to aid in your business surviving the craziness we are witnessing with consumers. (Looking for what NOT to do, read the Don’ts.)
Utilize online sales. (Even if you don’t have an e-commerce site)
In a world of virtual payment processing with brands like PayPal and Square, it doesn’t take but a moment to add a product and share a link to sell it.
Don’t let the perfection of not having your entire stock or store online keep you from showcasing products or services via marketing channels as often as possible.
Use your email list.
Your audience will likely have a little more time to open emails they might not usually open. So, right now is an excellent time to do some email marketing to your loyal customers and to those who rarely open.
Be transparent if your business is adjusting or trying something new because of circumstances. Let them take this journey with you and give them room to support you how they see fit.
Collaborate with other businesses to create attractive bundle offerings.
Unless you sell a necessity, it is likely to become a dog-eat-dog world on how consumers will allocate their expendable income.
It’s entirely too easy to click a big name Instagram ad of a business that can offer free shipping and low prices.
Try to sweeten the deal with creative collaboration. Bundle where it makes sense internally, but don’t be afraid to include complementing products or services.
Schedule online office hours.
Whether you normally have a brick-and-mortar location where customers or clients can walk right in, or you make your way around town to meet, let your audience know that you’re present and available to assist them.
Let them know when you will be available to interact with them or answer their questions.
Now is a great time to show your willingness to accommodate your audience, by using social media video and messaging or tools like Zoom or Skype.
Lean on your tribe.
Your customers were there before COVID-19, and they will be there when things have calmed.
Give them a chance to show you that they genuinely support you by being present, making your offerings, and thanking them for their support.
You’re a small business. This fact is a superpower in times like we are facing. So, don’t fret. Dig your heels in and prove why small businesses are the backbone of our economy.
Jacqui Jones, CEO
