The COVID-19 pandemic has created much uncertainty, and an ongoing challenge is the curfew implemented as a preventative measure. Currently, the curfew starts at 7 pm and ends at 5.30 am. This has dramatically changed the working hours and consumption patterns of customers. This can create challenges for you as a business owner, so here are some things to keep in mind:
- Communicate changes in work schedules to your customers, employees and business partners like suppliers. Consider opening a bit earlier and closing sooner to allow both customers and employees to have more time to get home, and if you do, make sure you get that message out across various channels Call some of your main customers, or communicate through WhatsApp or social media.
- Tap into delivery services for your products. Your customers may not get time to visit your shop since they are also busy managing work, family and household needs, and looking our for their health. Provide an option of delivering your products to their workplaces or homes where it is safe to do so.
- If you can, think about having employees come in to work in shifts. Have all or some of them work from home and support them to adjust to their new working environment. Consider providing them with work tools such as internet to facilitate their work and also communication.
- Get active on social media. People are spending more time on the internet than ever, so there is a growing opportunity to reach new and existing customers through this channel. Here are a few tips to kick start your social media marketing
New ideas? Feedback for us? Feel free to share with us at covid19businessinfohub@gmail.com.