Corona-virus – A term once unknown by most of the world citizens has become a threat to humanity. Not only has it crippled day to day living and taken the lives of may loved ones but it has also crippled many businesses, resulting in weak economies for many countries. However there seems to be a ray of light beaming through the dark clouds that affect most business – THE INTERNET.
With most consumers being restrained by the lock-downs that are effective in many countries – people are now taking to online platforms more than ever. Businesses the world over are now looking at avenues to better connect with consumers by means of social media presence, e-commerce, apps etc. Your brand has every right to benefit from the internet as well.
Online Tools
Social media
One would think that social media is just a platform for people to chat and share stories or memories, however many businesses are now using this for their brands benefit. The new target audience are the ones that are constantly connecting with loved ones online. Social Media is not only limited to loved ones as businesses find more value in connecting with potential and existing clients on a personal level. Having a social media presence in itself shows your target audience that you are relevant and easy to reach out to.
Instagram, Facebook, Twitter
-Advertise specials
-Show support by means of online conversation about local matters
-Educate your target audience about COVID and provide accurate and current information about the pandemic
-Spread hope and optimism through your brands content to showcase your brand in a positive light
Youtube
-If you run a business that predominantly sells products, showcase videos of your products so that users have a better view of it rather than a static image
-Showcase some of the services that you may offer so that a viewer is more inclined to book your service either during COVID or once the pandemic subsides
-Create entertaining content as users may need a sense of engagement during the Corona-virus lockdown
-Showcase the values of your company and/or perhaps the people behind the company
Whatsapp
-An easy and more effective way to communicate with clients directly about orders or bookings
-Create a group to post updates
Website content
Having a website during a pandemic is like having a virtual house that you can invite people to even during quarantine. This allows users to browse your site as and when they find a suitable time. Your brand in an online space can generate alot of word of mouth as people may share your site with others.
E-commerce
-Turn your business into an online catalogue or shop
-Allow for not contact payment by means of online payment gateways
Blogging
-Provide entertaining updates about your brand and/or COVID
-Activate online forums to start a conversation within your site. This attracts users to create accounts on your site ensuring their loyalty to your brand.
Internal Workforce Management
Online tools not only assist in marketing your brand but also how you can better manage your workforce from the comfort of your own home. Though some business may require staff to be present at work in order for day to day operations to carry on, using online tools may help a few team members to stay in quarantine and still be effective at work. This helps to minimize the spread of the corona-virus which showcases your business in a favorable light as you are looking out for the best interests of your staff as well as the community at large. Here are some online tools to help manage your business:
Workflow management: Trello
Virtual conferences/meetings: Teams, Skype, Google Hangouts, Zoom
Projects, tasks and deadline management: Wrike, Monday, Trello
Sometimes a little really does go a long way. In these trying times, paying attention to your brands online presence will not only help you rise above COVID but also gain your brand favourability once the pandemic subsides. Users and potential clients will remember your brand for being present and engaging during COVID 19.
