As many businesses attempt to navigate the uncertain, unprecedented terrain of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is easy to say that business is far from usual. Many people have had to make drastic changes in their lives in response to the coronavirus and most businesses have had to adapt one way or another.
So what does this all mean for your business? Many organizations have been forced to shut down operations, turn to alternative work formats, or reduce their workforce in response to a scarce customer-base. The good news is if your small business is still afloat in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, there are multiple tactics you can use to keep your business healthy.
As the world shifts to a more isolated, distanced way of living, companies and consumers are utilizing technology and digital formats more than ever. And with the excess amount of time you might find yourself with, it is important to embrace this change, but how? One of the most effective ways to stay healthy is by developing a strong digital marketing platform.
Creating & Maintaining A Website
Now more than ever, companies are relying on their online presence to enhance their small business. From website design to revamping your eCommerce, it is important to shift your marketing strategy to reflect the current limitations we’ve been put under by COVID-19.
First and foremost, you should address the elephant in the room. The health of your business depends on your ability to communicate with your consumers, and it is very important to inform them of any changes that may impact their experience with your small business. A great way to do this is by creating a Coronavirus information page on your website. This way, all important stakeholders can see what you are currently doing to keep them safe and satisfied during this time of uncertainty.
Second, the shift to a digital way of life is an opportunity to improve your already existing website. Now more than ever, customers are relying on websites and social media pages to get their information and select products and services to suit their needs. So, it is important to integrate some digital upgrading into your COVID-19 strategy. This could range from optimizing your SEO and investing in new eCommerce, or simply choosing a new layout or colour scheme for your current site. If your small business has an accessible, user-friendly website, a customer is much more likely to engage with your product or service.
Before jumping right in, it is important to do some market research and think about what does and doesn’t work well in relation to your target market. This way, you can make strategic changes that will help you reach your short and long term goals as a small business.
Social Media
Along with your website, social media can allow you to keep your customers and stakeholders up-to-date when it comes to your business. And now that everything has seemed to slow down and people are spending more time online, it is a great time to focus on your social media marketing. Most importantly, you should let your customers know of any changes or modifications you have made to your services. An effective way to do this and maintain consistency is to post a daily COVID-19 update.
To support any services that are not negatively affected by Coronavirus, it is imperative to communicate any promotions, discounts, and sales that could draw people in to support your small business.
Lastly, you should use your social media channels to show customers why they should support you and other small businesses and how they can make a positive impact in their community. By doing so, you can create a strong relationship with your customers that will last beyond the uncertain times of COVID-19, and make sure they understand that their dollars are being spent to keep your business afloat and community members employed.
Pandemic Support Through Digital Marketing
Of course, these times are completely unprecedented and difficult to navigate. Even large corporations are struggling to bring in business and implement an effective, low-cost marketing strategy that works. But, as long as you approach new digital marketing techniques with a long term, strategic vision, you will be able to reach consumers during the tough terrain that COVID-19 has abruptly thrown us in.
Tactics like website upgrades and social media are simple, effective and can provide value that surpasses the current market conditions that can aid you when all goes back to normal. Hopefully, through digital marketing, your business can not only survive this pandemic but come out stronger on the other end.
If you have questions about where your business stands, we encourage you to reach out today.