The pandemic outbreak of COVID-19 has thrown the world into circumstances no one could have predicted. We know that as business owners, there are many questions you want answered during these uncertain times. It’s unsettling for all of us.
Given the circumstances that Massachusetts and the United States as a whole are faced with, social distancing guidelines have required many businesses to shutter their doors for the time being. It might seem unnecessary to continue marketing efforts during this time, but the opposite is true. Here are some encouraging reasons to continue marketing your business even when social distancing and stay-at-home orders prevent your doors from opening.
Reach Your Target Customer
With social distancing guidelines in place, Americans spend more time online than before, with social media as a primary online destination. As a business, there is a huge opportunity to be present with your target audience. Consider connecting with your customers on Facebook or Instagram Live. If your business model allows, rely on platforms like Zoom to meet with your clients remotely.
Similarly, many restaurants and food/beverage suppliers are being creative with how they offer their products. Provide take-out options or offer gift cards to be used at a later date. These are ways to reach your customer while also following public health recommendations.
Maintain Relevancy
Even though your business might be affected by the CDC and public health officials’ recommendations, effective marketing can now help promote brand visibility. As mentioned, take advantage of social media to show your customers that you are still present. Establish creative ways to run your business and stay relevant even if you cannot offer your everyday products or services. Taking time to listen and communicate with your customers during this time is imperative to maintain relevance.
Plan for the Future
As difficult as the impact that COVID-19 has had on the economy, social interaction, mental health, and so on, at some point, things will return to some sense of normalcy for most Americans. It will be a relief for everyone — including business owners — to interact with others regularly and contribute to the economy once again. In the meantime, though, marketing during the COVID-19 outbreak allows you to understand your customers in a meaningful way and know how to reach them more effectively in the future. Plan a special sale. Collaborate with other businesses. Think about the kind of messaging your potential market will want to hear both now and after the stay-at-home order is lifted. Effective marketing now means a better connection with your customers later.
Reach Out!
At Rose + Gold, we continue to help you promote, grow, and sustain your marketing efforts through all seasons — including the unsettling circumstances brought on by COVID-19. Don’t hesitate to reach out with any questions or more guidance for your own business’ needs. We can help you continue to market using different messaging that is appropriate for the current conditions. We are in this together and want to help businesses around us continue to grow and produce momentum through marketing efforts. Stay healthy — and keep marketing!
