There’s no doubt that we are in a crazy time in history right now and for many local and privately-owned businesses, we are having to either shut down our operation or work remotely if and where possible. This is such a difficult decision, as many of us juggle the health and safety of our family and community, as well as the stability and support of our company, employees and their families.
But one of the most important things that I want to emphasize is that – just because our offices are closed, or that we are doing our part to quarantine ourselves, does not mean that we should stop working. Honestly, in the following weeks, it will be extremely important and beneficial to continue to work and support, not only your business, but our teams, our community, and all of those who are continuing to work during this pandemic. But, we most do so with a little more sensitivity, care and productivity.
Let’s face it — your marketing and your branding do NOT stop, even when the company is closed or disrupted like in unprecedented times like these. In fact, this is where branding comes into play even more, as it remains your connection with your customers and clients. You see, your branding is how people perceive, feel, interact and remember your company, and there has never been a more important time to showcase your values and culture than now.
Let me stop and say – I know that no one wants to hear a sales pitch right now. So please, do not think that is what I am suggesting. But here are 5 things that I feel we can be doing to, not only help our own business, but our customers and community as well.
Stay home.
In full transparency, I was not the first to support this notion, as it immediately jeopardizes the well-being of our companies. Those of us who have spent years working to build something are now faced with the reality that it may be closing. But, no matter your view on the subject, we cannot or will not get through this unless we all work together and do our part — and right now, that first step is staying home for every one of us that can. The sooner we all do, the faster we can hopefully get back to normalcy. We at least owe that much to the amazing people who continue to work during these times – healthcare, grocery, first responders, transportation, military, etc.
Be productive.
I get it…in preparation for lockdown, I started preparing a list of household chores and things my family and I could do during this time… all those things that you’ve consistently put-off or delayed. But, also make a list of all the things you can do to support your business. You know – those same things you’ve been putting off! Updating your website, writing some blogs, social media posting, saving pics from your phone….even just organizing and implementing a better storage organization. All these things are still beneficial to your operation.
Get involved.
No matter what you do, there is an opportunity to get involved and help, and now is the time to see where and how you can do so. I am not suggesting to put yourself in harm’s way, but look to see what you can do to support others — from companies still operating, our community organizations that are helping those in need, or even just your friends and family. Often, just being an additional voice can go a long way!
Stay connected.
In a day when we are all connected to some device — make sure you also stay connected to each other. Stay in contact with your team, customers and local organizations. Offer help and support if and where needed, and even your services, if you can. Even a simple distraction from the craziness can go a long way.
Support each other.
I am a true believer that we are all in this together, and stronger as one, so the more we can all do to help each other, will benefit all of us in the long run. If you are able to offer products or services, remotely – get involved: GREAT. If not, support and share the information about those doing positive things in our community and working to make a difference. Leave politics and all the negativity out, and do our part in sharing the positive and vital information in our community.
In just the Morgantown-area alone, we have seen a number of encouraging stories. Such as all of the restaurants working to provide local children with meals while out of school, such as Crab Shack and Bartini Prime. We learned that Daniel’s Men’s Store and Hilltop Packs in Waynesburg that are using their talents and resources to create face-masks for our medical professionals. We have learned that Mylan Pharmaceuticals is working around the clock to produce medicine to potentially treat this virus. The list goes on – and we can all do our part in making sure THESE are the stories we remember once this is all said and done.
Again, I just wanted to take a minute to encourage our fellow businesses and organizations to continue to stay strong, stay safe and stay active, for we will get through this together and are stronger as one. Stay safe!
