2020 has been an interesting year. Here’s 4 tips for business owners to keep up momentum in these unusual trading times.
With Coronavirus essentially shutting down one state and threatening to shut others, and state borders closed – how do business owners maintain and reclaim the momentum once the lockdowns are eased?
1. Keep your customers engaged
Whether that is via an online presence and perhaps an accompanied online shop, talking directly to your customers and clients help keep you connected to them and keep you in their mind.
How can I do this if I am in lockdown?
Be engaged via social media – there are so many platforms to engage with your customers and clients, from writing a blog to post on your business site (like this one!) or even just updates on your website, to engagement via Facebook, Instagram – and now the inclusion of Snapchat and TikTok can make the engagements lively and unique.
If you’re lucky enough to still be trading – keep your customers engaged the same way you always have – be your awesome businessperson self in and out of your business.
Clients want and rightfully expect a level of customer service to be extended to them, regardless of a pandemic – on the flipside you also should expect the same level of respect from your clients.
Remember You, personally, are a great marketing tool for your business.
2. Use the time in lockdown wisely
Are you able to refresh your outlet or office? Can you upskill?
Or catch up on things that have been on the backburner – the ‘I’ll get to them later’ projects like learning how Excel works or making time to revisit contracts with suppliers, or perhaps find new suppliers, better products or services. Take time out to think about your business – is it all flowing?
Can you make some changes? Is it efficient?
Explore your options, make this time work for you as much as possible.
3. Do you have a budget for your business?
Or business plan?
Have you thought about revisiting these documents to go over them and check to see if they need to be refreshed or re-jigged, in light of the new situation?
Does your business plan and budget reflect the business you have now?
Is it realistic? Now is the time to have a look at these.
If you haven’t looked at them in a while, and assess if they are still relevant.
It is also a good exercise to see if you goals and statements in your business plan still align with the business you have created.
Perhaps it’s time to lodge your tax return too, and make sure you have applied for all financial assistance you are entitled to receive.
Remember JobKeeper parameters change in September – make sure you are aware of this and are eligible to either re-apply or continue without the assistance.
4. Be positive.
Remember – once you re-open, you will be inundated again with eager clientele who require your goods or services – or if you are open, clients will be grateful that your products and services are still on offer.
Above all, be patient, be calm, be grateful – this too shall pass.
Communicate with your accountant
A good accountant is valuable for tax planning and accounting & bookkeeping for your business.
You should also be able to consult with your accountant about every part of your business.
Download our eBook ‘The Complete Guide: Making the Most Out of Your Accountant”
