Surviving COVID-19 – Recalibrate. Create Value. Communicate.

In a recent podcast my guest, who is a BAFTA award-winner and has worked with the BBC and other global brands such as NBC Universal and Aston Martin,  Rhys Waters said, “Create work they see value in and want more of.”  It got me thinking of what entrepreneurs and businesses are going through during the current COVID-19 outbreak.

If you are either one of them, then you need to heed this advice now more than ever. While we are on mandatory lockdown and being told to exercise social distancing to flatten the curve on this virus, it doesn’t mean we can’t stay connected.  In actuality staying visible online is your businesses lifeline right now, to staying connected to your customers so when your doors open, they know you are ready for business.  If you are still open and are offering products and services at this time, this is also a great way to let customers know that you are still open for business and how they can do business with you.

Theses are three focus points for surviving COVID-19 as a business:

Recalibrate: Take a deep breath or two and remember not to panic. Step back and examine how you can still deliver your products or services in this current need for social distancing.  It doesn’t have to be fancy, actually the simpler the better at this time.  You have expertise and/or unique products to share, figure out how to still do that.

Create Value: You may not be able to see clients face-to-face right now, but you can still create value for them. For example, trainers or gyms can record workouts and post, or do FaceBook or Instagram Live workouts. Go old school and write the workout down! Supply a nutritious recipe, etc. Continuing to share value will reap revenue and marketing dividends when lockdown is far behind us.

Communicate: The worst thing I am seeing is businesses remaining silent. Don’t do that. At the very minimum check in to see how your clients, potential clients, online audience are doing and ask how you can help them. Let them know how you are dealing with this crisis and how you will continue to do business with them. That way you continue to build your leadership and sharpen your brand.

We will all get through this tough time together.  Remember to stay engaged and ask for help if you need it as you are not in this alone and many other entrepreneurs and businesses are experiencing it also and are more than willing to share best practises with you, so reach out and ask.

Stay safe and healthy.

 

by Tanya Chedrawy