Guide for Small Businesses During COVID-19 Mom and pop stores and restaurants have always had to rely on their scrappy sides to survive. It’s in their blood from the start, but recently the Coronavirus epidemic has backed many into an inescapable corner. They aren’t just trying to figure out how to sell off their recently acquired inventory, they are strategizing on how to stay open, and keep their employees and their sanity. Below are ways a small business owner can take control back, with goals and projects they can work on during COVID-19. As a creative agency born and raised in Walnut Creek, California, we have worked with many small businesses over the years. We decided to pull from our vast experience to hone in on the key areas and tips local businesses can utilize.
Vendors & Partners First and foremost, we know operating expenses will likely be top of mind at all times as you try to figure out which levers to pull and adjust daily. One of the keys to success with this is keeping communication wide open with all vendors and partners. Make sure everyone comes from a place of complete transparency and honesty, with a constant dialog. Try to lead with your heart and see if there is a way you can help one another, perhaps a trade, a renegotiation of contracts? Get creative and see if there is a way you can make it work. We are all in this together. Get Online Virtual payment If you haven’t already made sure you have a virtual payment option, incorporate it into your business model. Nowadays, online payment is effortless. You can even create and send payment links to your clients in an email or text message, or even add a payment button to your site with a web-based payment portal.