Before The Aftermath

What a beautiful day it is! Birds chirping outside, Cool wind blowing through the window and a warm cup of tea to start the day. Well, this has been the routine for 15 days now, and I am NOT complaining. Well, then why are others not happy? Its because they are all worried about AFTER the Aftermath. What happens AFTER Lockdown is lifted? Will we have our jobs, will we be able to find work? Will business pick up immediately? etc.

I thought I will share my perspective on the ensuing crisis due to COVID 19 and my take on what's likely to be the scenario panning out.

Well, trite as it may sound, but the situation is unprecedented. When the last major pandemic happened in 1918, the world was not as interconnected, as interdependent, as it is today. Also, technology has made information flow so seamless and fast that before one can react to happening A, happening B is flashed across our screens. Any amount of planning of such a crisis, might not have been enough. Let's face it, it's easy to speculate on what the Government should have done instead of the Pan India Lockdown, but then any alternative decision has its own demerits.

A few points that one needs to keep in mind now and immediately after the lockdown is lifted:

1. Stay Positive and spread the smile around: While this is easier said than done, if you are able to do it, then PLEASE PLEASE spread the positivity around. Talk to colleagues, team members, do video calls, as its easier to connect when u can see the other person. Share non-Corona news and jokes. Provide all possible distractions to help them come out of the negative zone.
2. When its over, you are expected to HIT THE GROUND RUNNING: Its gonna be like you took a 16-hour flight from India to the US and the moment you land in JFK Airport in NY, you are asked to make a high profile presentation. No time for freshening up, No excuse for jetlag, etc. Just present.
3. When Everyone is hurt equally hard, everyone will try to rise equally fast: While you may feel relaxed that the competition is also impacted, the smarter competitors will be doubling up on the strategy post lockdown, so don't be complacent.
4. Consider all possible Scenarios and plan for each one of them: Partial/ Phased opening up of different states/cities, continued ban on flights and long-distance trains, the US and EU continue to see an increase in spread, restrictions on trade with China, etc. All scenarios will have an impact on different businesses.
5. Revised Business Regulations: Many major countries are revising trading norms to protect themselves. For a short period, the world will see an anti-globalization sentiment. Governments will make a renewed push for complete localization and self-dependence. Evaluate the likely impact on your business and what you will need to do to comply.
6. Social Distancing norms: What Stays, What Goes - How will Social Distancing be implemented in a Factory? Will you be comfortable going to a parlor or a dentist and how will u keep yourself safe?
7. Conserve Cash and be extremely frugal on any new initiative: While this is true in any business at any time, it will get more critical now. Because we have not yet seen the END of this. A lifting of lockdown does not mean Corona is over in India. Another mass congregation in some parts of the country and the chances of it spreading cannot be ruled out.
8. Startup funding will take a hit: There are clear indications from major VCs and early-stage investors that the next 3-6 months is going to be a wait and watch period, to see how the business scenario pans out.
9. You will not get a chance like this again: Professionally, focus on strategy, planning, anything you wanted to consider changing and did not have the time. Personally, Health, fitness, learn a new skill or hobby, huddle with family and get the work-life balance back in order!
10. Finally, remember: This too Shall Pass

Hang In there. Hang In Strong.