What started as social distancing and self-isolating has now escalated into shelter-in-place orders from various counties in the US. That means several industries are now completely shut down, and we don’t know for how long. With people spending more time online, it looks like online shopping is one thing that’s surviving COVID-19. It’s time for your business to “Go Digital”!
Step 1 – Brainstorming
The first step to going digital is to think about your offerings and what you can and can’t sell online.
- If you sell goods, an online store is a good option. You can look into Shopify, Etsy, BigCommerce, Amazon, and other online marketplaces where you can set up your storefront. Even Facebook will allow you to create a catalog and sell through its platform and Instagram.
- If you sell a service, it’s a little trickier. Think about the accommodations you can make to avoid contact with customers and offer over the phone or online support. If you work outside the home (roofers, landscapers, etc.), you can complete the work without interacting in person and move all other aspects, like invoicing and reporting, to phone or email.
Step 2 – Clean up your online presence
People are no longer driving by your business, they’re not seeing billboards, they’re not answering to doorknockers. How are they finding companies to meet their needs? ONLINE. Here are several platforms you need to update:
- Google My Business (GMB): This is extremely important. When people Google your business, your GMB profile is what pops up. It has all your contact information AND reviews. Make sure your information is accurate and updated and that you’re requesting positive reviews from your most loyal customers to put your best foot forward.
- Facebook: It also comes up high in search results. Update your information and make sure you’re posting your response to the virus and all the accommodations you’re making in your business to protect your employees and customers. Many companies are closing or have reduced hours, make sure your audience knows you’re open and when.
- Website: Make sure it’s appealing, updated, and that you have a system in place to quickly and effectively respond to inquiries, both for calls coming in and website forms. As a bonus – create a blog post outlining your accommodations and ensuring customers you’re open and safely conducting business. You can also implement a pop-up to immediately notify customers that you’re open as soon as they land on your homepage.
Step 3 – Actively promote your business
People aren’t quite sure which companies are still open, and they may be hesitant to hire a company if it requires in-person contact. A simple ad on Facebook (where it can reach many users for a low ad budget) can let your ideal customers know you’re still here for them and can put their concerns at ease.
Related: Almost Free Marketing Tools to Use When You’re Strapped for Cash
Spending money on marketing can be scary under the circumstances. Still, if people don’t know you’re open or don’t know who you are, then that’s one sure-fire way to never see sales. Marketing during a pandemic is a must.
Key Takeaway
Time’s are tough, but when you’re a business owner, giving up is not an option. These steps can help you “go digital” quickly and start making sales online.
Need help? Contact us today for a strategy session and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter for news, updates, and tips on how to use digital marketing to grow your business.
