The power of planning in a time of change

Needless to say, things are changing the UK, let alone globally, on a daily basis. I’ve gone from working at home, mostly online, for my own work-life balance, to having to, alongside my husband and two kids!

I wanted to share with your my plans for keeping my business (and my sanity) ticking along for this strange period.

I know there are people who, like me are self-employed or running a business. If you are working in a company things may have slowed down - so these tips may help you too!

1. Allow a little wobble.

I had a short cry last night. I think the closing of the schools really bought home the enormity of what is happening. The kids being at home and missing out if the social side of the school is what’s tipped me over. I shared how I was feeling and immediately felt better. Give a name to the feelings you are having.

2. Pay attention to what you can control and what you need

Apart from health, my biggest concern is money. I know I’m not the only one. I don’t know what is going to happen tomorrow but I know today that I can look at my and our finances and take all the help and assistance that is offered. What can be reduced? We are taking the mortgage break option (when I get through the telephone queue!)

3. Keep selling

I know lots of people are feeling that now isn’t the time to sell or promote. But if we don’t, the people that need our services won’t have the chance to buy them. It’s as simple as that. As long as you don’t take advantage of what is happens and trade on fear (which to be honest is advice all year round) then keep telling people about your skills, products, and services.

4. Build your brand

Don’t disappear. We will get through this. What we offer as people and organisations is not just about money. It’s content, com,munity and connection. This not only helps others it helps you. There is a motivational and psychological benefit to producing, and having a purpose and routine in your day.

5. Innovate

There are some of us that feel they can’t deliver their usual business. They may be real - Such as in-person events. So look into moving them online. Go back to basics - if you were starting again, what would you do differently? What do you think others may need? What can you test?

Another interesting approach is to look at what other sectors are doing - what can you replicate or learn from?

6. Use this time

For most of us, our days are going to look different. As of today, I’m sort of homeschooling! That’s something I never expected.

For others, you may have downtime. Take time to read, experiment, create and update.

Reach out to ex-clients and get testimonials and case studies?

Maybe do some research and create a white paper to use for marketing?

Develop and test new ideas with a beta group

7. To discount or not discount?

This is an eternal debate - do you markdown to get sales? My advice is sometimes! I have decided to discount two products that I think will help now (more on that later) but I am aware that for some that devalues what they do. I think now a lot of the rules go out of the window. You just need to be aware that whatever price you mark it at, it needs to represent the value within it!

All of this will put you in a better place when things pick up.

What’s your plan?

Clara Wilcox is a straight-talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective has a social mission, focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance. Isn't it time you had career to enjoy not endure?