Due to the coronavirus outbreak across the world, we’ve seen many state-wide shut downs in order to reduce the spread of the virus, and try to flatten the curve. In these times, businesses have to make the best decisions for themselves and their customers in order to stay safe and follow precautions. Many businesses have resorted to closing, or have been deemed non essential to stay open for business until further notice.
So what can you do to stay connected and retain your customers during this time? If you are closed, you want to be sure your customers know you’re still there and are looking out for their best interest. Here are a few tips on keeping your business connected during the coronavirus shutdown.
Let Customers Know What You’re Doing to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19
The best thing businesses can do right now is communicate with their customers. Sending an email, posting on social media, or hanging signs at your location are good tactics to inform customers what protocols you’re following. If you’re remaining open, post a sign at the door to assure them you’re doing everything you can to protect their health if they visit. Share increased cleaning and hygiene protocols you’re following, or any change in operation hours.
Increase Your Social Media Presence
People are checking their phones now more than ever for updates on the virus, and checking in with friends and family. Positive content either about the virus or shedding light in times of distress can help take people’s minds off the panic, so showing your presence online can ensure your customers know you’re still there and want to get through this with them.
Offer Online Deals
There has been a surge in online shopping with people quarantining at home, so be sure to remind customers they can still shop for their favorite items if your business has an e-commerce component. If you are a service-based business, you might want to consider offering online sales or gift certificates to encourage your customers to treat themselves when they can come out of quarantine. This can help maintain sales, and give your loyal customers something to look forward to.
Customer Service
Most customer service is done either over the phone or through email, but now is the time to increase your customer service capabilities to ensure your customers can reach you. Using social media platforms offer a way for customers to message you, or using live video to post updates or chat with them to answer any questions or concerns they may have. It’s also important to understand the many different perspectives people have of the situation right now. Your messaging or posts should be appropriate in a time like this, so evaluate the day-to-day changes in the news to ensure your tone is right.
This is a tough time for everyone, and we’re seeing small businesses worry about whether they can make it through this financially. Letting your customers know you’re there can promote loyalty for when things get better. Depending on what product or service you provide, now is a good time to be creative and think of ways to give back to your community in some way.
