Staying Connected to Your Customers in a Time of Global Crisis

Whoa. If you had asked any of us back in January about our spring plans, you would’ve heard about all the incredible vacations, time with family, and fun events we had planned. But now, March is well underway and instead we’re in the midst of a global crisis. The coronavirus pandemic has not only upended our personal plans, but it’s also severely disrupted business as usual. If you’re worried about losing revenue - and customers - during this time, here are some business tips for connecting with customers despite the challenges.

Make it virtual

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This is extremely obvious, but it’s important. If you’re in a business that relies on in-person gatherings to make money, you need a change to your business model - fast. A great example of this is the fitness industry. Instead of losing out on recurring membership payments, many gyms and exercise studios are offering recorded or live classes via Zoom, Instagram TV, YouTube, or other virtual meeting platforms.

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Even if your industry isn’t as well-suited to transition to an online environment, consider your options. If you offer swim lessons, for example, can you record some videos of water-based games or swim skill exercises that students and their families can try in the bathtub, in a kiddie pool, or in their home pool or hot tub? Think through any way you can offer some of your services digitally, and you’ll be able to stay connected with your customers despite the physical distance.

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Get creative

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Right now, people are scared. So no matter your business, think outside the box about how you can adjust your communications and offerings in order to lessen their stress and keep your sales going. Let’s say you own a juice bar and all restaurants are closed to dine-in customers. Could you create a special offer to no-touch deliver fresh juices to customers’ doors? Tie-in to your communications the fact that health is of utmost importance right now, and good nutrition is a big part of that.

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And, of course, be sure to emphasize your cleaning procedures and health standards so that customers can feel confident ordering from you. This is just one example, but think through how you can get creative and connect with customers in your industry, without all the typical methods you would have at your disposal.

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Offer hope

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Finally, we all need hope right now - and customers are no different. They want to know that, despite the global crisis, their favorite businesses will still be around once the dust settles. If there’s something you can do monetarily to give customers a break right now, it would go a long way. Or if you can ensure you’re doing all you can to keep your doors open and keep offering your services, no matter the hindrances, it helps. Every little bit of hope helps.

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Connecting with customers is much more difficult now than it was a few months ago, but we’re all in this together. Let’s treat each other kindly, go virtual, get creative, and offer hope whenever possible. Give us a call if you’d like help reaching your customers and adjusting your digital strategy to better suit these rapidly changing circumstances.