It’s heartbreaking to see how some businesses have to close down for good due to the COVID-19 pandemic that has affected the whole wide world. A lot of help has been given by the government to help them sustain but it is impossible to keep going, especially for the small companies that rely solely on the customers to make profits. However, we would love to share some of the tips that can be helpful for business owners to keep the business going while engaging with the customers no matter where they are.
- Prioritise the safety and health of your employees and customers
It is important to ensure that everyone in the workforce adheres to the right precaution steps. Make sure the office or shop lot is cleaned and sanitized thoroughly before start operating so the employees can guarantee that their health and safety are well taken care of. Provide a reliable screening system for the workers, as well as the customers before they go into your premises. Utilise the MySejahtera app that is helpful to keep track of people coming in and out of your business center. Being vigilant and wary can be a good way to convince your customers that your business is fully protected from any viruses.
- Prepare a clear and concise communication plan
Communication is indeed an important aspect when it comes to the business world. Employers and employees have to be on the same ground by making sure that everyone is clear about the actions that need to be taken in order to keep the business going. It is crucial to schedule regular updates and optimize technology to send your messages to the employees, customers, and suppliers. This will help in ensuring that everyone is properly informed regarding any updates and information.
- Use a (Point Of Sale) POS system that allows you to sell online
People are reluctant to go out because of the rise of COVID-19 cases that have spread throughout the country. Providing an online system that will allow your customers to still shop with you, but, from the comforts of their own homes is a great way to keep your business afloat. Besides, this helps to minimize the risk of infection in your physical stores which can be dangerous to your employees, as well as other customers. Once you have established the right platform, make sure to inform your potential audience regarding your new system through social media and mobile application.
- Provide an exceptional digital customer experience
Offering a digital customer experience can set your business apart from your competitors. It is important to ensure that your business has an excellent website where your customers will still have access to a wide range of services that you offer despite being at home. Poor and disorganized websites will drive your customers away which will only incur losses to your business. Invest in a reliable website designer to help create a smart and user-friendly interface, excellent support, efficient payment options, and the right technology infrastructure. Utilizing an e-commerce business can help you grow in leaps and bounds in the future.
- Be transparent with pricing and offer affordable delivery charges
It is very important to be transparent with your customers regarding your product pricing so they won’t get confused and mad if you suddenly implement additional fees. Concise and clear pricing can help strive your business as customers will always love to shop with a reliable company. Avoid concealing extra charges or details that may come as an inconvenient surprise during the final stages of completing a purchase. Besides, for businesses that offer delivery services, it is wise to set affordable charges so the customers won’t think twice to do business with you.
- Maintain daily operation by using alternative solutions
COVID-19 has greatly disrupted a lot of businesses like travel arrangements, staffing, communication, and supply chain. Companies can try to overcome these problems by brainstorming creative options and using alternative solutions instead of simply canceling events, trips, business plans. Technologies are one of the alternatives that are beneficial to combat the situations where they can offer Zoom and Facetime meetings to connect people. It is essential for organizations to explore new ways that can help the business strive rather than waiting for the pandemic to be over.
The pandemic situation has affected a lot of people in the workforce industry. Companies are forced to lay off some of the employees as they are unable to sustain and stay afloat in the business. It is easy for one to lose hope in this situation, however, we must understand that this phase will pass very soon and everything will get back to normal. In the meantime, business owners can try these methods in order to sustain and grow their businesses even in post-pandemic circumstances.
References:
https://www.globaltrademag.com/how-to-grow-your-business-after-covid-19/
https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/how-to-grow-your-business-during-the-pandemic