It is clear that we are all longing to get back into the real world. There is only so many Tiger King jokes to hear and banana bread to eat before we all go crazy! How many puzzles have you finished by now?
The good news is that things are looking up, and it is finally safe to begin the process of reopening businesses. But before we do, there is some essential marketing work to do to get your business ready to open its doors.
We have been working diligently to help our clients from all different fields respond to COVID-19 and help them prepare for restrictions to be lifted. This process, like most things, requires good communication and planning. That’s where marketing comes in!
To make this process easier for you, we have put together a simple, 5 step plan to help you communicate your re-opening plans with your clients. It’s more important than ever that we’re all on the same page, and moving forward with these steps will help you stay on top of the essentials.
Check out our top 5 steps below!
1. Create a plan
The current situation throughout our country and the world if full of uncertainty. How many times have you heard the phrase “these uncertain times” mentioned recently? But the truth is, things are uncertain right now. Which is why it’s more important than ever to create a plan for how your business is responding to COVID-19.
In order to provide a safe place for your customers, you need to create a response plan for your business, and make sure it is clear to your audience.
Before reopening, take some time to consider what safety procedures make the most sense for your business. It may help to do some research on what is recommended by the CDC and official government organizations. This will help you put together a simple, yet effective plan that fits the needs of your business and customers.
Once you create your response plan, you need to communicate it to your audience. Create a designated page on your website for your plan, share it on social media, include in it email blasts, add it to your company newsletter, and post flyers/posters of the plan at your business. This will ensure that your audience is well informed, as well as reassure them that your business cares about their safety.
2. Update the Google Listing for your Business
We know we harp on this one a lot, but it’s important. Google accounts for 92% of all search engine traffic! This means that most people turn to Google first for relevant business listing information – like open hours and updates, make sure that your business’s Google listing has the correct updated hours, phone number, address, and website link.
Beyond making sure your regular info is displaying correctly and adjusted hours are reflected on your listing, Google is offering an entirely separate “COVID-19 Updates” section. You can post your business’ most recent response plan here, and Google specifically shows these updates first for users. An easy adjustment that goes a long way.
Not sure how to update your Google listing? You’re in luck! We have a whole blog devoted to that subject.
Click here to see how to update your google listing.
3. Send out Email Campaigns
As always, we recommend using your email list as a first step for marketing communications. Compose an email blast that lets your clients know that your business is reopening and what to expect. This email should include the response plan you created from Step One. This email should also include any specials, coupons, or sales that your business is offering to drive new business as you reestablish yourself. This makes sure your audience knows all of the updates you have going on, how to contact you, and when they can start business up with you again.
And of course, don’t forget to thank your clients for their business during these tough times. Let them know how much their support is appreciated. This is an excellent opportunity to create a sense of community and collaboration.
4. Amp up your Social Media Presence
Social media presence is a key step to connecting virtually with your community. Since we’re all being separated now, this should be a main focus for your business as a way to keep your audience informed.
As you reopen, make sure to post all updates regarding your response plan, new hours, and any specials your business is offering.
Social media is another great place to thank your community for their support and to let them know how appreciated they are.
In addition to this, be sure to engage with your community through social media platforms. This includes liking photos, commenting on posts, and responding to messages quickly. Your also post consistently in order to stay in the minds of the community.
5. Get Social in your Community
One thing we know is that nearly every business has been adversely affected by COVID-19. Although this is a struggle, we have seen business communities begin to come together and collaborate through it all. Use this as an opportunity to connect your local business community.
Do a search and learn about what your city is doing to support one another. Are there local business support lists? Make sure your business is included. Reach out to newspapers and other media outlets know that you’re reopening. Now that you have your response plan information readily available, you want to let people know where to find it. Our community collaboration is the perfect place to implement this.
We always try to make things EZY for you, and these simple steps are sure to help you have a successful reopening. We can’t wait to see what the future of 2020 holds for your business; things can only get better!!
Until then, let’s all eat one more piece of banana bread and watch one more Carole Baskin conspiracy video!
We always try to make things EZY for you, and these simple steps are sure to help you have a successful reopening. We can’t wait to see what the future of 2020 holds for your business. With the right approach, your communication efforts will ensure your audience knows exactly how you plan to proceed and how to best support you.
Until then, get starting on that next batch of banana bread – we’ve heard there’s another Carole Baskin conspiracy video in your playlist anyways! 😉
Call Us Today
Need help implementing one of a things on our list of recommendations? Maybe you need help with more than one? Don’t worry – that’s what we’re here for!