How to keep your business going during coronavirus

The Coronavirus is spreading like wildfire all over the world and because of that, it’s becoming more and more difficult for businesses to keep their operations going. Since March this year, 40% of all businesses in the United States have been closed down because of the Coronavirus. Due to that, many businesses are faced with more challenges than usual.

In times like this, they need financial help to cover any losses and too avoid severe cash flow issues.

With all that’s happening, there’s still no sure way of telling when businesses will be allowed to operate normally again. Many entrepreneurs are starting to think of the possible things that could happen to their business.

From setting up a work-from-home policy to employing digital marketing strategies, entrepreneurs have no choice but to be creative in their approach to the crisis.

Here are some helpful ways your business can survive the damages the Coronavirus outbreak has caused:

1.Create a Plan

Ideally, all businesses should have an emergency plan in place for situations like this. Since the outbreak is expected to have a significant impact on businesses everywhere, having a back-up emergency plan will ensure your business won’t end up suffering the worst.  

If you have an emergency plan ready, then it may be time to modify it according to the current situation. If you don’t, then it’s time to create one. As the saying goes: “Failure to plan, is planning to fail.”

It’s always important to consider every problem that may arise. From there, have your employees brainstorm with you and list all possible solutions, including financing options. This will serve as your guide on how you can ensure your business will deal with and survive obstacles, big or small.  

2.Create a Work-From-Home Policy or Impose a Strict Precautionary Measures at Work

If your business is considered non-essential, then you or your employees might not be allowed to work physically in your office.

Instead, you can establish a work-from-home policy for your employees to make sure essential work is completed. Although you may not be as productive as you are when working at the office, it will in the very least, prevent your business from becoming stagnant.

Be sure to include some work-from-home guidelines for your employees. Moreover, evaluate your employees’ roles, and try to determine if their tasks can be done at home. Some roles such as digital marketing or bookkeeping can easily be done remotely.

You can stay connected with your employees through online video conferencing platforms like Zoom, Skype, or Google Hangouts.

On the other hand, if your company is considered an essential business (i.e. restaurants or pharmacies), then you may need to employ strict safety precautions at work. Remember, healthy employees always result in better work productivity.

Hand washing, masks, and social distancing should be observed at all times. Other than that, you should always disinfect your store, including your equipment to avoid the spread of the virus.

3. Always Communicate with Your Customers

The Coronavirus situation is spreading rapidly, and no one can tell exactly what each day will bring. With that, business owners should also communicate with their clients or customers on a frequent basis. This will allow customers to be informed of the different changes that your business might impose.

For instance, you may have to change your hours of operation or close down on specific days. Whatever you decide, be sure you inform your customers.

Many entrepreneurs often overlook the importance of keeping an open communication line for their customers. However, when you update them about the latest modification to your business operations, you’re reinforcing the trust your customers have in you and your business.

4. Don’t’ Forget Your Digital Marketing Strategy

One way for businesses to get their company known to large audiences is through different business events. However, with the government urging people to stay at home, entrepreneurs have no choice but to follow the rules in order to stay safe. This has resulted in the cancellation of a number of business conferences and events, which could have been a helpful marketing strategy for entrepreneurs.

Digital marketing, on the other hand, is getting more attention these days. With few people going out and more people using their phones to search for virtually everything, it’s the best time to improve your digital marketing strategies.

Also make use of local SEO so that your business is visible to people in your community searching for your products and services. Be sure you also keep your social media lines open as well, so your customers can easily inquire about your business.