With more uncertain times ahead here are some steps you could (should!) take this week to strengthen your business over the weeks and months ahead:
1. Take the money…
Think carefully about furlough. Use it if it’s sensible to do so.
2. Get on the front foot with your communication…
This is not the time to go quiet on your customers. They need to hear from you. And your messages need to be positive. Don’t fuel the misery train. (And don’t put out the ‘We’re now closed due to Lockdown’ memo that everyone else will be doing!)
3. Think creatively…
For instance the new rules say that ‘Non-essential retail can remain open for delivery to customers and click-and-collect.’ Now that’s going to present challenges but it’s also a great opportunity to get your community behind you, to put out a super-positive message about ‘supporting small business’.
Control the controllables. You don’t have to miss out on all the lost sales in November – and once you start selling online your catchment area could expand massively.
4. Remember marketing is a NOT a non-essential spend…
If you shut down your activity now you are effectively giving in. The lockdown is going to mean more people browsing online, with more time to look, watch and consume. Ad costs will almost certainly drop again as the short-sighted businesses vacate the field. Great opportunities for those smart enough to see it.
5. Be in front of your customers as often as possible…
Many are going to be stuck at home and consumption (of your messages) will lead to sales.
6. Phone your customers…
Radical hey?! Seriously, reach out. Reassure them. Help them. Their lives are probably full of just as much uncertainty as yours. Be there for them. Get on the front foot. Proactively nurturing a relationship is one of the most valuable things you can do in business. Show them you care.
7. or send them a video message…
Miles better than an email to people that know you. Control the controllables.
8. Skill up…
Use this time to do the things that you KNOW you need to do. Get your marketing sorted. Properly. Set up a Knowledge Centre. Fix Google My Business. Sort LinkedIn, and then use it properly. Get Re-marketing set up. Understand your numbers. Properly.
It won’t be easy, but now is the time to take control, ensuring your business is in the best possible state to navigate the weeks and months ahead.
Whatever your situation we are here to help and support you. Feel free to get in touch for an informal chat – hello@themarketingshed.co.uk
