Times have changed drastically and we are in a time which feels a bit like a sci-fi horror movie. Now, more than ever, small businesses and entrepreneurs are vulnerable and they have to make sure they take the right steps to make sure they are still around after the epidemic ends. Here are 3 things all small businesses and entrepreneurs should not do during the Coronavirus outbreak.
3 things all small businesses and entrepreneurs should & should not do during the Coronavirus outbreakOlabiyi DipeoluData Scientist and founder of Maqoba (www.maqoba.com)Olabiyi is the data and analytics manager at Student Price Card (SPC). He is a data scientist who is passionate about mental health. He launched his social venture, Maqoba, as a way to provide mental health for those who can’t afford their own mental health treatment. He grew up in 7 different countries and has work experience in the USA & Canada.
Times have changed drastically and we are in a time which feels a bit like a sci-fi horror movie. Now, more than ever, small businesses and entrepreneurs are vulnerable and they have to make sure they take the right steps to make sure they are still around after the epidemic ends. Here are 3 things all small businesses and entrepreneurs should not do during the Coronavirus outbreak.
Don’t fall for scams and fake news
As sad as this might sound, there are some people who are trying to rip off innocent people and businesses during this Corona epidemic. It’s actually a great time for scammers because of the confusion, uncertainty of the future, and the fact that more time is being spent using technology. There are now more fake government sites, fake texts and fake news being spread which had led to an increase of scams through calls and clickbait. [1][2]
Do: To limit your exposure, don’t open emails from unknown sources claiming that you are eligible for the money, don’t click messages that sound like fake news or conspiracy theories. Scammers know that people are scared and will use that opportunity to take advantage. Trust reliable sources for information.
Don’t try to take advantage of people during Corona, everyone can see through it
The Torontonian food app, Ritual, got into a lot of trouble because they sent insensitive marketing during the rise of the Coronavirus. What makes it worse is that they sent it by push notifications and emails. Their messaging was tone-deaf and customers and non-customers spoke out. They eventually had to apologize, which is embarrassing. Consumers are not as dumb as you might think they are. [4]
Do: Take time to reach out to your local database. If you have the emails of your clients which they gave you through consent (Again, I stress consent. CASL laws are very strict on this), send them an email to let them know that you are checking in on their well being. This will remind them about your services and they will appreciate the genuine concern.
Do Update your digital plan & presence
The current Corona epidemic has disrupted many key aspects of business plans; logistic processes have been disrupted, engagements and interaction on websites have shifted, amongst many other changes. One thing is for sure; companies who had up to date digital plans are/were in better shape for the current climate. People are still shopping online and will continue to do so. Even if people reduce their amount of shopping, there are more people online, which means more potential eyeballs. The world is changing and becoming more digital. Your business should adapt to this.
Also, do: This is not as hard as it sounds. Just think of key aspects of your business and how you can digitize this. For example, update your about section and add in the information of how they can contact you. Reply to customers faster via email, and update the wording on your email through SEO or SEM.
Not all is doom and gloom for us small business owners and entrepreneurs. Luckily, small businesses can adapt to changes faster than larger companies, and we can make sure our actions solidify the future success of our enterprises. The above are just 3 simple things to remember as we navigate these tough times. Hang in there, this too shall pass.
[1] https://globalnews.ca/news/6690907/coronavirus-peterborough-scams/ [2] https://globalnews.ca/news/6741981/coronavirus-covid-19-scams/ [3] https://mobilesyrup.com/2020/03/26/trudeau-warns-of-text-scam-offering-canadians-fake-relief-fund-amid-covid-19/ [4] https://www.blogto.com/eat_drink/2020/03/ritual-apologizes-sending-insensitive-email-regarding-coronavirus/
