TIPS?ON?HOW?TO?SHIFT?YOUR?BUSINESS?ONLINE

With most office, retailer and restaurant doors closing it is important to start shifting your business to an online platform if you haven't done so already. This is especially crucial If your business was primarily ran through face-to-face interactions. Transitioning to a digital platform may feel odd, but it is crucial to stay present in any way that you can so that when you return to your office your clients are waiting in line to come back. Here are four tips on how to stay present online and keep your business running in a virtual world.

Social Media: Social Media has many different avenues that can help your business continue to thrive. Keeping a social media presence is crucial whether you are sharing posts of your products and moving them to an online sales platform, connecting with new and potential customers and through social media channels such as Linkedin, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. In addition, semi-frequent social posting helps to keep your business fresh in the minds of customers so that when you open your doors again they will be fully educated on what you offer and be ready to purchase. Don't forget to utilize Live Videos to help your customers feel even more connected and typically get more interactions than regular postings.

Newsletters: Newsletters are a great way to share updates, thoughts and information. Send weekly or bi-weekly emails that focus on issues affecting your client, info about your products and programs and how you can help them in their business. 

Virtual Networking: Though you may not be in ideal settings (no buttery breads or iced tea pitchers) building relationships are still key to expanding your network and bringing in new clients. Look online for virtual-event opportunities or sign-up for an online referral program like Alignable. In addition, email still works the same! Ask a business acquaintance to do some warm introductions for you and you do the same for them. 

Online Outreach: Remember as you are remotely working human interaction is highly appreciated during this time of isolation. Reaching out to past customers and acquaintances via phone or email is a great way to show them that you care as well as keep your business present in their mind.  

-Mandi Pryor

South West Communities Chamber of Commerce

MP Marketing and PR