How To Navigate Covid-19 As A Small Business

Guest post by Elena Stewart

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected just about everyone in one way or another. If you’re a small business owner, you probably know this all too well. Keeping your business going is tough during these times. However, there are numerous ways to adapt your approach and get relief when you need help.

Reaching Your Customers

With social distancing orders in place, you’ve probably had to completely change the way you do business. However, by trying these ideas, you can take these changes in stride.

• Spend more time on your social media pages. If your business has slowed, now might be the perfect time to revamp your social media strategies or try out paid social ads.
• If you sell products, test the waters online by building an Etsy shop or becoming an eBay seller to keep revenue up. Just make sure you choose the right platform for your goods.
• If you offer services, think about how you can keep meeting your clients’ needs. Holding virtual consultations or offering remote estimates may be easier than you think!
• Make sure your desktop is powerful enough to handle all your business needs. If not, you can find bargains

Growing Your Network

Social distancing has also changed the way we make business connections. Luckily, there are countless ways to network without meeting anyone face to face!

• Just as there is etiquette for networking in person, there are dos and don’ts for reaching out online. Brush up on how to write effective networking messages before diving in.
• If you’re spending more time online, it might also be a good time to grow your LinkedIn network and make new connections.
• You can also make plans to attend a virtual business event or conference this year. Virtual events can be great networking opportunities!

Additional Resources

Despite adapting and looking for new opportunities, many small business owners are still struggling to keep up with the rapid changes brought on by COVID-19. These resources can help you stay afloat if you need a little extra help during these times.

• Gain Tax Advantages by Forming an LLC in Your State
• Small Business Administration Paycheck Protection Program
• Coronavirus Tax Relief for Businesses and Tax-Exempt Entities
• Local and State Assistance Programs for Small Businesses Impacted by COVID-19

Being a small business owner is challenging even under the best of circumstances. With the pandemic going on, you’re probably facing a whole new set of hurdles. By finding new ways to reach your clients and network, you can help your business make it through the pandemic. And if you need a little extra help with your finances, rest assured that there are several options available to you.

We’ve all had to make adjustments during this pandemic that have changed our way of shopping, learning and more.  Remember “thisisyourbestyear” and change inevitable.

*Elena Stewart is a certified life coach who specializes in the teachings of Brené Brown, Danielle LaPorte, and Marie Forleo. She successfully transitioned from the corporate world to running her own business, and she now helps others achieve their career goals and dreams.