As governments around the world announce the easing of restrictions and lockdowns slowly become a thing of the past [fingers and toes crossed], how can businesses get themselves ready to thrive in a reshaped market?
Although COVID hasn’t gone away for good [yet], a new normal is on the horizon – and there are heaps of things businesses can do to make the transition back to that ‘normal’ a smooth one. Getting ready for a post-COVID world will look different for every business, but it’s those who get prepared and welcome change with open arms that will truly flourish.
So, how can you get your business ready for the end of lockdown?
Understand
Customer behaviour has undoubtedly changed since before COVID came waltzing into our lives. For that reason, right now could be the perfect time to do some fresh market research to understand what really motivates your customers compared to when before lockdowns were a thing.
For any business, taking time to consider how your customers have been impacted by the global pandemic is essential. Has their income been affected? What about their sense of stability or their willingness to spend money? What influences their purchasing decisions?
According to a McKinsey report, there have been a few major changes caused by COVID-19:
- A surge in eCommerce
- An increased need for trusted brands
- A shift towards local businesses
- A preference for digital entertainment
- Larger baskets and more infrequent shops
Before, during and after the global pandemic, understanding your audience will ensure you meet their evolving needs and respond in a way that delights them, time and time again.
Communicate
Once you’ve thought about how customer behaviour has changed, it’s time to level-up your communication. Reassuring your audience about the safety, availability and stability of your product or service is essential and will help people trust that your business is allllll over any changes thrown your way.
Is your communication strategy up to scratch? Does your social content calendar have the right messaging? Is your website content up to date? What about your opening hours on Google My Business?
If you need a hand with getting everything back up and running, get in touch with 3PM today.
Reflect
We’ve all been through a time that was unprecedented to say the least. So, what did your business learn from the global pandemic? Getting reflective and thinking about what your business did well during lockdown[s] and what areas threw you into a spin can help you grow and improve into the future.
What did you learn about yourself, your customers and your competitors? What needs fine-tuning to ensure future resilience? What surprised you about the way your business adapted to change?
Respond
It’s an understatement to say that COVID has reshaped our lives for good. Lockdowns have forced customers to let go of old habits and create new ones – and it’s likely that those habits will stick around.
According to a 2021 report:
- People are using social media more than ever
- Shoppers are seeking more personalised experiences
- Authentic content is becoming more valued
- Businesses are being rewarded for building communities
Customers are demanding digital experiences that are seamless, easy to trust and match the new consumer mindset. How you respond to those demands today will shape the way your business evolves and grows well into the future.
If your business needs a hand navigating the post-lockdown landscape, get in touch with the friendly team at 3PM today. We’re experts at all things digital marketing and know exactly what to do to help your business respond to whatever changes 2021, 2022, 2023 [and beyond] throws your way.
