Things have not been the same ever since the pandemic hit. The same has always been the case whenever there’s a pandemic; people panic, the uncertainties of when things will get back to normal, and the frantic search for solutions. Times have changed though, and thanks to advancements in technology, containing a pandemic isn’t as hard as it used to be.

Among the worst-hit during a pandemic are new business owners. This, affecting the business’ future growth. But all hope is not lost. There are strategies that can help a business stay afloat, some of which include adapting to current market trends, analyzing what the competition is doing and how you can leverage, and changing your customers’ perceptions.

In business, you’ll not want to show your customers that you are on the verge of losing it whether it’s during a pandemic or not. You must stay in touch and continue providing them with the same services as before. Keeping the lines of communication is vital and it’s what you need whenever things get rough. Having said that, here’s how to keep your customers updated during the pandemic.

1. Ever Heard Of ‘Google My Business’?

During the pandemic, you’ll want to keep your customers in the loop. You’ll only be missing out on opportunities by neglecting your customers’ needs. And what better way than to utilize tools that drive customer engagement. Google My Business (GMB) is an online tool that helps you to connect with your local consumers. GMB also gives you control in managing how your business website appears on the search engine.

However, there are steps that you’ll need to follow including creating a Google My Business account, verifying your business, optimizing and editing your listing, and selecting the category your business falls under. Not to worry though, you can have all these taken care of by an online marketing company or a consultancy firm. Let’s now take a look at the top benefits of having Google My Business:

• It is free
• GMB boosts business visibility on search engines
• GMB improves SEO
• GMB helps to ensure online consistency

2. Go Social

The secret behind marketing is that you have to take your business to where your customers frequent most. Social media is among the ways that can help boost your engagement with your loyal customers during the pandemic. There’s a host of social media platforms where you can frequently post updates whether through positive content in providing solutions or by live engagement.

3. Provide Customer Support Through Digital Channels

During the pandemic, most of your customers will be in self-isolation. No matter where they are, you should be able to reach them by providing them the best customer services. There are various ways you can achieve this and more but you’ll need to think outside the box to make it a success. Of course, you can utilize social media for instant engagement. But you have other digital channels where you can provide your consumers with the best customer support services. These include:

• Emails
• Text messages
• Video-assisted support channels
• Self-service support

Utilizing the above tools will come in handy in allowing your customers to solve specific issues, ensure customer satisfaction, and provide them with insights and knowledge about your products and services.

4. Let Your Intentions Be Known Through Signage

It’s of utmost importance whenever a pandemic strikes that businesses exercise caution to prevent further spread of the disease. This is especially the case when it comes to brick and motor stores. Share any information that will help to protect your customers’ health through pamphlets or brochures. Also, ensure that your business premises are clean and regularly disinfected. Be sure to be prompt in updating your customers and employees of any changes in working hours. Such information can be shared on your social media accounts or your website.

5. Give Back By Offering Deals

While most people are struggling with the effects of the pandemic, you can take the time and concentrate your efforts on giving back. This can be done in such a way that aligns with your business goals and objectives, lest you’ll appear to be insincere and unclear. This can create an opportunity for you to not only do something good to others but also your business. You can offer freebies, online deals, or gift vouchers. Either way, it’s a gesture that will resonate well with your customers during such difficult times.

As an entrepreneur, it’s most likely that you’ll experience lower sales during a pandemic. This can and will affect your production as well as your profit margins. But through the above tips, you can still manage to keep your customers in the loop and while at it, help your business to remain afloat during a pandemic.