by Martin 4 years ago 
Businesses whether small or big are forced to adapt to the new “normal” to stay afloat in this pandemic. The temporary closure of physical stores and establishments provides a huge challenge for entrepreneurs.
However, several companies have inspired many by coming up with new ways to evolve and continue operating despite the current situation. Here are some amazing examples of how you can take achievable steps to tackle the challenges of this global pandemic.
Be Delivery-Friendly
Conventional delivery services have already existed long before the pandemic. However, various businesses have become resourceful in how they’re offering products to consumers who are stuck at home and unable to visit their shops. Many businesses have adapted their product offerings to make them suitable for takeouts, from offering food packages and meals, to DIY food kits with recipes. This idea doesn’t only apply to food businesses. If you own a maple tree farm in Canada or the US, then you can offer delivery services to customers within your area.
Keep in mind though, that there are a number of regulations that you may have to fall in line with if you plan to put your delivery vehicles on the road. Depending on the type of service your company offers and the number of vehicles you will have on the road, these regulations can vary. In any case, if you are going to keep your to-home services as a main operating point for your company going forward, you might want to consider implementing fleet management software to keep track of all deliveries and make the process easier. These can also help you stay compliant with the regulations mentioned above, which can include DOT & ELD Compliance (visit https://www.lytx.com/en-us/fleet-management/dot-compliance/eld for more information).
You can also take advantage of social media and advertise or even sell your products/ services there. Remember to ensure that the experience is as smooth as possible for your potential customers. This helps to increase your customer base and boost your earnings.
Seize The Online Opportunities
Photo Credit: Peter Olexa | Pexels
As discussed above, being online is crucial during this challenging time. With the limited possibility for people to even walk past your store, establishing an online presence is the only way you can promote your brand and stay in touch with the customers. Aside from having an up-to-date social media profile, your company website should also be user-friendly and attention-grabbing.
Sharing informative and engaging videos online about your products/ services is also an effective way to promote them. So if you are offering non-toxic pest control, then you can create online content focusing on that service. Depending on your niche, you can look into ways to adapt what you offer into online-friendly content that sells.
Connect locally
Staying connected to the local community and supporting in every way you can is critical during this pandemic. Not only does reaching out really go a long way in helping those in need, but it can also provide an amazing support network for you and your company.
It’s also essential to look into how you can contribute. You can do so by supporting fellow entrepreneurs in your area by shopping locally and promoting their brands on social media. If you have the resources, then you may look to the companies who are also working with the local organizations to adapt their services into something that contributes to their communities. For example, if you’re a Markham company providing tree removal services, then you can offer a discounted rate to those who can’t pay the full price
Motivate your employees
If your physical store has been temporarily closed because of current restrictions, and you also have several people working remotely, then it’s essential to establish a clear remote working policy in place. Additionally, you have to make sure your employees are equipped with the right tools to continue performing their jobs. Electrical and hardware equipment is one thing to think about, but also consider the digital components to make the transition to remote working as seamless as possible.
Encourage your staff who are working remotely to set up an area in their home that is only dedicated to work. Moreover, try to keep their morale high by making sure that there’s clear and open communication and check in on them regularly.
Take advantage of these tips to inspire you and equip you with the right tools to adapt to the different challenges and let your business thrive in spite of the crisis.