5 TIPS FOR SMALL BUSINESSES DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

It is common knowledge that the Coronavirus pandemic has taken a huge toll on businesses of all sizes across the world. But among the hardest hit are the owners of small businesses. Many of these businesses have suffered untold setbacks due to the suddenness, duration and scope of the scourge. This is the time for leaning back, deep introspection and re-strategising.

What are those things that every small business wading through these murky waters needs to do in order to not just stay afloat, but productive? 

1. KEEP IN TOUCH WITH YOUR CUSTOMERS: It is very important that in times such as this, a small business stays in constant communication with its customer base. Buzz them regularly just to find out how they are doing. You may not be proposing new business vistas to them. This is just you strengthening bonds by trying to find out also if there are things they may be needing at the moment. 

2. KEY INTO YOUR STRONGEST ASSET - The period of this pandemic is a very opportune time to carve your specific niche within your core business or outside of it. Discover that one thing that you are exceptional at within your business, and expand/perfect it to great heights. The information to set this in motion will readily come from staying in touch with your customers, and getting honest feedback; feedback that reveals what exactly your clientele needs.

3. JOIN A BUSINESS TRIBE - Few things will be more rewarding now than linking up with people in your line of business - your business or industry community. You can join an already existing community or create one yourself, and this is where social media is a very strong tool. LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter are highly recommended for staying in tune with the ever-changing dynamics as a result of the pandemic. You can start or hook up with conversations treating current situations similar to yours. Invite other people to join in. 

4. FUNDING SUPPORT - It is very possible that up to this point, you have been scrolling past huge opportunities that'll give you easy access to much-needed financial support at this time. There are local and international governmental and nongovernmental bodies offering grant options to SME's like yours. A lot of these are interest free or come with rates you can cope with if prudence and discipline are your guiding principles. The Coronavirus pandemic has caused undue financial stress to many small businesses which are now yearning for reinvigoration. Keep your ears to the ground!

5. EDUCATE YOUR EMPLOYEES - Stressful times call for drastic resolutions. The importance of keeping staff in the loop about the mission and vision of your business cannot be overstated. This becomes even more imperative during a crisis when laser focus is required across board. Keep your employees abreast of happenings, safety protocols, expectations, and how to remain safe, upbeat and productive. Training on customer service excellence and perception management are tools you should explore for your staff. Communicate and review work-from-home modalities when necessary. Also know when your workforce becomes an unmanageable number and communicate crisis management load-shedding plans (based on contractual obligations) in an honest manner.

These are very trying times. Do not let panic take over your personal and business life. Stay in the game by following these simple tips and more. Stay safe too.