The global pandemic has caused a host of problems for businesses all over the world, but it has also presented some exciting new opportunities too. Depending on which sector you are operating in, you may find that there are interesting possibilities to enable you to launch a new business. If you are wondering how to go about starting up a company under the new normal, here is some helpful advice.
Think local
The coronavirus crisis presents an opportunity for you to turn local, casual customers into loyal, lifelong ones. Everyone has been spending a lot more time within their own neighbourhoods and communities, and this has led to many people recognising the importance of local businesses. This is, therefore, a great time to start up a business that is centralised in your community. Make sure that people in your business’s local area are aware that you are open and trading. Implement a “buy local” advertising campaign or consider contributing to other organisations within your own community which are working together to make a difference. If you contribute meaningfully, your community is sure to return the favour.
Give your website an overhaul
More people than ever have been shopping online during the lockdown, and the high street figures suggest that this will not change with many retailers closing physical stores to concentrate on their online business. This means you do not need to be a giant in the e-commerce sector to benefit from the online shopping upsurge, Platforms like Shopify allow businesses to rapidly set up online to sell their services and products, so setting up an e-commerce website to sell online should be a top priority now. Even companies that are not suitable for selling online can still design their website to attract a wider audience, so take this opportunity to create content that reflects the changing needs of its audience and to make sure that your website has been fully optimized for SEO.
Gaining the advantage over competitors
If you are setting up a business under the new normal, you need to harness your advantages over your competitors. You can do this by making your enterprise stand out through being an active element in the local community, by making customers feel safe, by delivering impressive customer service and by facilitating the ease with which they can purchase your products or services. The rise of Etsy based businesses has captured this market with many creative businesses using the platform to make bespoke and personalised gifts, which have rapidly increased in popularity as lockdown emoted so many missed opportunities with those people held dearest.
Improving efficiency
The pandemic has led to businesses having to go online and adapt. If you are launching a new business, you can start from a better footing. Focus on seamlessly integrating more remote working options into your business model and implement online procedures for purchasing, booking appointments, and arranging meetings from the start.
Capitalising on fresh ideas
Many existing businesses have had to adapt to the challenges COVID-19 has thrown up, but if you are launching a business in the new normal, you can create your company around the changing needs of its customers. Consider the new problems people are facing, their new needs and wants, and determine how you can create a business that solves those problems and meets those needs. There are many new and exciting opportunities out there if you are creative and open-minded.
