Starting an outside sales job two weeks before COVID has
taught me so much. I have a firsthand
view on businesses that have thrived and those that have folded.
Here are five ways that businesses are thriving.
1.
Willingness to change while the world is
crashing down on you. Many businesses
were scrambling when essential places were the only places allowed to leave home. One person said, “It was terrifying.” I heard the desperation in voices, fear, and
confusion. There were options – bringing
business online, closing and waiting it out, taking out the PPP loan, firing
everyone except the owners. I have seen
it all. Even in the same demographic, I
have seen one thrive by bringing his product online to a certain niche while
his competition was bemoaning the loss of sales and trying to get his books in
order.
2.
Having their ducks in a row saved many people. I do not imply that they had accomplished
this by themselves. Most businesses have
accountants, CPA’s, and the like. They
knew where they stand and are above water.
Paying taxes may be annoying but it is essential for COVID forgivable aid.
3.
Flexibility to bend over backward. Those who immediately offered curbside pickup
are still in business. They are willing
to go out of their way to make sure the product is delivered to their
customers.
4.
Showing understanding and compliance of the ever-changing
laws. People have very strong feelings
about social distancing and wearing masks.
Some customers feel fear if another person is not wearing a mask. Some are angry that this is expected, “My
body, my choice.” Shop owners are feeling
like they have to enforce to stay in business.
Medical conditions that are invisible change all this. Here is a sign from Hometown Postal that
covers all the angles:
“Attention Customers: Those in government have ordered all persons
entering indoor facilities to wear a mask.
If you have a medical condition,
which prevents you from wearing a mask you are exempt from this order!
Due
to HIPPA and the 4th amendment, we CANNOT legally ask you if you
have a medical condition.
Therefore, if we see you without a
mask we will assume that you have a medical condition and we will welcome you
inside to support our business.
We are constantly sanitizing &
circulating fresh air throughout this business every day.
Thank you for your support and understanding.
5.
Businesses that read and respond to online
reviews are thriving. They listen to the
heart of their customers they care enough to respond. They make time. Customer service is key and this is how we
have lifelong relationships that give the community a desire to support.
I can feel the end of COVID is near, people
are hiring, they are ready to move forward and have a bright outlook on the
future. They want help with the products
I am offering: HR services to onboard
new staff and take advantage of the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (up to
$10,000). They are willing to look into
credit card processing that is safer, has the best customer service, and is
more robust than their present equipment.
They are willing to look into analytics – where are their customers
coming from? Where would be the best
place to open a new Brick and Mortar?
If you read all of this I wish you a blessing. May you thrive, may you find peace, may your
customers love and appreciate you, and may you grow in boundaries, products,
and wisdom.
Cristina VanKleek
Heartland Payment Systems
971-239-8166
Cristina.vankleek@e-hps.com
No comments:
Post a Comment