Fear is a given. Fear of the virus, fear of the economy, fear of the changes we have to make as business owners. It's REAL!..But one true thing remains. In the words of Jasmine Star " If you don't move forward, you won't recover".
Business that shuts down completely will definitely fail. That's the hard truth. So I have done some research these last few days, and with the help of some awesome people, I have comprised a few great tips!
1. Get any online work done.
Most of us run a large portion of our business and it's marketing online. Take advantage of this time to create a social posting calendar, new launch details and marketing plans, run the numbers, and keep track.
2. Re-Vamp your website
That's our livelihood in the online retail space. Make your website work for you! Add a discount, or free shipping to entice online orders. Show how you are helping people amid the crisis. Reach out to others in your field to collaborate virtually. Plan and record videos for the future.
3. Speaking of Videos...
Plan and record future social media videos. The perfect time, especially if you have a brick and mortar store that is closed. Go to your store a shoot your new arrivals for spring, any items you have for winter clearance, or anything else of value and interest for your clients. Start LIVE VIDEOS to showcase products, or just to keep in contact with customers so they know how you are handling the crisis, and that you're not going anywhere, just selling more online.
4. Reach out Via DM or Text
Contact followers you have made a connection with, and brainstorm a future collaboration. Not only does this help with isolation, but it makes the future a whole lot brighter when knowing you have a plan! You just might make some money in the process.
5. Organize Your Inventory
We all could use some extra downtime to get things organized. From your paperwork, to your inventory. Make this a fun activity by putting on some music, and rocking out while you do it! Nothing makes the world go away better than music. Once you organize your inventory, take photos,or video, or go LIVE to show your customers another look at your inventory!
6. Give Away a Gift with Purchase
This might entice your customers to buy, if they have been on the fence. Post in on your website, send to your e-mail list, and start a social media campaign to market it to the public.
7. Follow-Up with Your Best Customers
Reach out via Text Message, Facetime, or Messenger to personally check how they are doing. Also ask if there is anything you can do for them, or if there is any product they need soon. Always end with value, offering something from you personally really makes the difference. Let them know of future sales, when your store will re-open, and invite them back.
8. Catch up on the Latest Trends in Your Market
Browse online at what's new in your field. Check out what competitors are doing. See what other businesses are doing amid the crisis. Get ahead of the game by planning to hit the ground running when everything gets back to "Normal".
9. Re-Invent or Re-Brand
Maybe this is what you've been waiting for? What a better time than now, when you have extra time on your hands for planning, and brainstorming. Get out your notebook or journal. Start this in motion.
10. Take Care of Yourself
Last, but not least, self-care is a must! Stress can really take it's toll. Physical health and mental health are at it's worst right now, so make it a point EVERYDAY!
We will all get through this! Stay strong! It will be over soon, and Life will get back to the usual. But in the meantime...
SEE YOU VIRTUALLY!
No comments:
Post a Comment