Running a business is a tough job. Running a business during the social distancing restrictions can be even more daunting and leave you wondering, “How do I keep my business afloat?”
Here is a list of ideas to help you navigate these uncertain times. The faster you adapt and create innovative solutions for your customers’ needs, the higher your chances of success.
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Reach OutThink of the person whose dishwasher just broke or who just got a flat tire. Due to local “shelter in place” restrictions, they may not be able to visit you in person. Let them know there are options, you can meet their needs, and deliver what they need—either a new dishwasher or keep their vehicles up and running. |
- Use Social Media. If your business doesn’t have social media accounts, it’s time to create them. People are spending more time on social media, so make sure you manage your pages, answer inquiries promptly, and make regular posts to keep your followers engaged. If you need inspiration or content to share, follow us on any of our social networks!
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/approvalinasnap/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/snap-finance/
Instagram https://www.instagram.com/snapfinance/
Twitter https://twitter.com/MySnapFinance - Email your customers. Send a formal communication on how you’re following CDC recommendations >>https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3990.pdf<< and handling purchases, deliveries, or making special arrangements.
- Connect via text. Text messages offer an easy way to keep customers in the loop with relevant updates, special offers, and even an easy way to schedule appointments, pickups, and deliveries.
- Draw attention to your “OPEN” sign. It might sound simple, but when you’re trying to attract customers, every little detail count.
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Be CreativeThese are challenging times for everyone, but people still need to work, entertain themselves, and even stay fit while at home. Offer your costumers creative ways to take care of them, to get what they need safely, as well as options that can help them afford it all. |
- Provide delivery options. Offer your customers curbside, drop-off, or pickup service. Think of ways to maximize your customers’ convenience and feeling of personal safety when shopping.
- Give extra perks. Free delivery is a necessity now, so add some additional value to their purchase like a prepaid gift card for future purchases.
- Encourage the use of gift cards or coupons. Digital gift cards provide an excellent solution for online shopping as well as securing future sales.
- Offer Snap’s financing options. Now more than ever, giving customers access to affordable payments is a must for your business. Text-to-apply is a great way to do it.
- Share valuable content. Share videos on your social media channels of relevant information for your customers.
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Use Technology to Your AdvantageGive customers a great experience from the moment you greet them up until they check out. Use technology to simplify your process and keep them informed while reducing one-on-one contact.
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- Offer free Wi-Fi so they can wait comfortably and feel at home.
- Go paperless. Let customers provide their contact and payment information via an online form. Remember to ask them to follow your social media pages and to share a review.
- Enable online payment. There are plenty of options in the market for processing online payments.
- Ask for reviews. Create a profile on Yelp and Google so people can find you. Both search platforms offer a free opt-in, and for an extra fee, Yelp allows you to create email campaigns.
- Be assertive. Use feedback to learn how your customers perceive you. Ask for ideas on how you can help or improve your services. Don’t be surprised if you get some great new ideas!
Your ability to identify opportunities and offer alternate solutions promptly will help your business navigate any crisis.
Additional Reading
“Digital Giftcards Are The Ultimate Last-minute Gifts For Procrastinators,” Business Insider
https://www.businessinsider.com/last-minute-digital-e-gift-cards-2017-12
“10 Excellent Online Payment Systems,” WebFX
https://www.webfx.com/blog/web-design/online-payment-systems/
