Covid-19: How To Future-Proof Your Business
The recent outbreak of Covid-19 caught everyone by surprise and has been a huge wake-up call. It’s clear the pandemic is still a threat. And we could be moving up and down alert levels for some time.
Preparation and planning are critical if your business is to survive and thrive at every alert level.
Here we share some tips on how to future-proof your business.
1. Embrace technology.
Whether it’s Zoom, Slack, or MS Teams, technology has been a lifeline. Remote working probably involved a steep learning curve. However, many companies have yet to review remote work tools used and their effectiveness. Now is the time to do so.
The minimum requirements for sustained remote working include the following:
- video conferencing to connect with clients and colleagues
- collaboration tools to support joint working on documents and files
- cloud storage for anytime, anywhere, anyplace access to company information
- communication apps to support internal communications
2. Connect with clients.
When it’s no longer possible to have face-to-face communications, it’s time to look at alternative ways to stay connected.
Whether it’s social media, newsletters, marketing emails, or phone calls, make sure clients know you are still open for business. Responsive customer service is more important now than ever.
3. Continue your marketing efforts.
During lock-down, many businesses cut back on marketing to reduce costs. However, the last thing you want is to dry up the sales funnel altogether.
Digital platforms provide low- or no-cost ways to maintain your marketing and brand authority. Consider writing blogs, or creating videos and podcasts with content that adds value to customers.
Webinars or social media live streaming are a great way to get up close and personal with clients. Educate and interact with customers and prospects about your product or services in a live Q&A session.
4. Plan to succeed.
Continuity planning is vital in these uncertain times. Make sure you have a plan in place that considers the following:
- How your business can operate at each alert level
- What happens if crucial personnel become sick or incapacitated
- Data backup and disaster recovery systems
- Remote working policies for short and long periods of home working
- Any supply chain issues and identified alternatives.
The signs are good that this latest outbreak will be quickly stamped out. However, it’s highly likely the virus will reappear at some point.
Use these tips plus your experiences of lock-down to future-proof your business.
