10 Things I Have Learnt About Operating And Scaling A Business During A Global Pandemic

Today is the last day of 2020 ??

And I’d like to round up this year with 10 things I have learnt about operating and scaling a business during a global pandemic..

1. Empathy ?? - Create a safe working space for your team to continue growing, whilst acknowledging how tough this year would have been for them personally. 

2. Doing the same for myself ?? - being patient with my own growth and the growth of the business too. 

3. Trust ?? - In crisis’ like this trust is key in any relationships created through the business. Whether this is with your customers, your team or your suppliers, each will value trusted relationships more than ever. 

4. Embrace innovation ?? - Be flexible and open to adapting your business quickly to new ways of working. 

5. Transform your brand digitally and make it a priority ?? - Consumerism is now digital, so own brand online presence and point of sale are essential for any commerce brand today. 

6. Communication is not only key, but it is also necessary ??? - 90% of your time is communication with stakeholders of the business. The team and I called many customers through both lockdowns, to chat through any order problems, providing them with a more human connection (which proved very important to them).

7. Acceptance ?? - acknowledge the situation for what it is and look for the opportunities which arise from diversity, there will be many once you train yourself to see. 

8. Social interaction is a necessity ?? - Working from home can be isolating, so making regular team video calls essential should be a priority. 

9. Be wise with cost ?? - A long term sustainability plan will serve any short term survival goals.

10. Leadership ?? - you work for your team, not the other way around. Ask your team how you can be a support to them and lead by prioritising their needs. 

What would you add?