Even during the worst of the pandemic, we saw companies struggling to turn around operations enough to stay afloat. Now, the name of the game is “adapting,” and we’re all players trying to figure out where we fit into the big picture. Even if it means stepping out of our comfort zone, we are forced to leave behind the traditions we built and move into the digital age.
contactless service
Before COVID-19, some businesses didn’t even have a social media page. These businesses relate to loyal customers, word of mouth, and in-store marketing efforts. You know the stores I’m talking about, mom-and-pop stores that use printed flyers, bulletin boards, and give the 100th customer of the day an award.
For some, this type of business model set them apart from conventional stores and made them popular. For others, it was a general lack of enthusiasm for the technology (or an inability to afford expensive digital marketing campaigns). Then, with a snap of his fingers, he was gone. No one could get in through the doors, and just like that, the entire structure of the business collapsed.
I couldn’t trust word of mouth, flyers, or bulletin boards. An increase in online shopping for a contactless experience became the thing to do. What did this mean for those who didn’t even have social media?
Dive headlong into digital
Pride has to be replaced by necessity in terms of going digital with your business. You have to consider social media, you have to have a website, and you can’t rely on physical customers to make your offers. Forget getting used to the water. Jump in and hope you swim and stay afloat.
If you want your business to survive now and in the future with the pandemic in general, you can’t wait for things to get back to normal. You have to move forward and adapt to changes, and you have to do them now.
Transition to digital marketing
Everything seems to be done on a smartphone or computer device, including shopping for daily needs. To grow your clientele and stay in business, the use of digital marketing is more than a requirement. It’s the only lifeline most companies have. Business owners cannot expect to survive during COVID-19 if they do not transition to a digital marketing strategy. Make sure your business has a proper and modern website that is mobile friendly and easy to use. Customers should be able to easily contact you or shop through your website on all devices so you don’t miss out on any potential sales.
Business practices and customer support have not changed in their marketing structure, only the method in which it is delivered. Customers need to feel safe while shopping and feel better doing things online. Businesses will not survive this new era if they do not use the digital marketing platforms necessary to reach these customers.
