Thoughts on Re-opening your Business by Emiliano Introcaso

Emiliano Introcaso, Export Help Advisor at EDC

Emiliano has close to two decades of experience working with manufacturers and exporters looking to increase their global growth by providing them with support and guidance in all things export.

1. How can businesses smooth the transition of reopening their business in the coming weeks or months?

Businesses need to be informed via the government agencies in their respective provinces as they are preparing the implementation of different phases.  Being ahead of the game, involving their employees as much as possible, and collaborating with ideas as to how new phases will affect the way the business must operate, it’s crucial.  As phases are introduced, there are a number of considerations that are put in place for the safety of the employees working in the front lines, as well as the clients seeking the goods and services from those businesses.  Even if your business is not considered an essential service at the moment, thinking ahead and in creative ways is what is going to allow your business to succeed and readapt to the new reality.

2. What are the differences between business operations pre and post-COVID and what is your advice to small businesses adapting to the new normal?

There is no doubt that business pre-COVID is going to be operating in the same way post-COVID. In many businesses where social distancing is not possible, your business might have to re-adapt in the way that it deals with employees working together.  Some businesses might opt to have staff work from home, or shift work at different hours.  Other businesses might consider the reduction of personnel on a temporary basis, as the different economic reopening phases are implemented. Reinventing your business during this time can be one of those forced opportunities that during pre-COVID were never considered as options.  I know it is easier said than done, but assistance is out there through the numerous federal and provincial programs that all levels of governments have implemented. Many might require a business plan to support your applications. Using your organization’s downtime to plan for the next steps you should take, it is a way to safeguard your business and adapt it to the new normal.