During trying times, it’s important to focus on the things you can control. You can’t dictate what’s happening around you, but you can control how you react. Now is the time to react with empathy, kindness, and ingenuity within your community.
The current health crisis is affecting everyone; some harder than others, but no one is an exception. As a business, you have the resources available and the means to take action and impact your community. And when your business spreads empathy, you’ll gain sympathy – which can help keep your business open.
How can your business give back and stand out?
Provide needed materials. If you have the resources to provide materials - such as masks or cleaning supplies - contact your local hospitals or shelters and offer to donate. Maybe your business can adjust its production efforts by making needed materials like protective wear or hand sanitizer.
Make your employees and customers aware of all the efforts you’re taking to ensure their health and well-being. Communicating that they are your priority demonstrates that your business cares, and is an asset to the community.
Commit to employment. By doing all you can to keep your employees, you’re demonstrating your commitment to the community. Your business creates jobs for the region, keeping the local workforce and economy working.
Adapt your business model. You can do so by providing delivery, take-out, drive-thru, or curbside pickup options. You can use social media and video technology to do virtual shopping tours through your store, or offer virtual one-on-one appointments.
Think about turning your website into an e-commerce landing page to encourage customers to continue shopping.