Adapt purely means to “to adjust oneself to different conditions, environment, etc.: to adapt easily to all circumstances.” - Dictionary.com
The pandemic has impacted all businesses. Some are able to continue regardless, others are changing how they operate, and unfortunately, some businesses are no longer able to continue and have closed down.
Adapting to change is often looked at as hard work, not cost effective, and some people fear change.
The new normal has begun already and will continue to affect all businesses for at least another year.
Firstly, ascertain what changes your business needs to make. Then you can work on a strategy to ensure those changes are accepted by employees, if you have some, and customers alike.
- If you have not already implemented an e-commerce website in order for customers to purchase your products and services, now is the time to do that. It’s not too late.
- Kerbside pick-up for those customers who prefer not to come inside your location. This could apply to retail and services such as printing, to offer some ideas on what kinds of business can do kerbside pick-up.
- Your brand strategy should identify the changes you have made, and of course this means not just your website marketing, but online and other resources you use to promote your brand.
Communication with your employees, clients, vendors need to be consistent. They should be kept informed of anything that impacts their processes and work flows and interaction with customers, as such.
Adapting to changes is never easy. Change cannot be implemented overnight. If you can hire someone or an organization to assist you that would save you time and in the long-term money. If you are a sole proprietor with limited budget seek the advice of your local, and trusted connections within your network.
2021 is not the year to change for the sake of change, it is inevitable and those businesses who do not adapt will be left behind.
Linda Ockwell-Jenner is a business consultant and if you wish to contact her for any information regarding your small business you can contact her here: info@motivationalsteps.com
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