GEARING YOUR BUSINESS FOR POST-LOCKDOWN

Apart from essential services, COVID 19 has caused a number of businesses to be closed and we have all been accustomed to the home office environment. In the next couple of days, the lockdown restrictions will be eased as we move to Level 3 of the lockdown. Majority of businesses will open their doors again and we could not be any happier, however, it will still not be life as we know it. The lockdown, as we have seen, was detrimental and even fatal for some small businesses. The majority of businesses have accessed various COVID 19 reliefs, tax holidays and other funding in order to stay afloat over the last two months, however, just like any crisis, there are some positives that we can take from the COVID 19. Most notably, the acceleration of the use of technology in running our businesses. As we open our doors once again, it’s important to achieve a smooth and successful transition.

Operational Readiness

Unfortunately, we are still in the red when it comes to COVID 19, therefore, businesses will be required by law to minimise the spread of the virus. This means incorporating social distancing and high levels of hygiene in all areas of your business. Make sure there are enough sanitisers and protective gear for yourself, your staff, and your customers. If you can, have a phased approach where you start operating small and adjust gradually. Document your operational plan and share it with all stakeholders. Even more important, stay informed at all times and act within the law. Keep your eyes on the official COVID 19 website here and other trusted mediums.
 

Communication with Customers

Your customers are your partners so it is important to engage with them and inform them of your availability status. This is also the time to assure them of your continued partnership and quality service. Be patient with them, they were also on the same boat as you. Where you can, offer customised service that will suit their current needs. This will go a long way in building customer loyalty, they will also scratch your back when you need it one day.
 

Staff Planning

Plan carefully for your staff and as advised by the government, where the staff is able to work from home they must work from their homes. Public transport is still limited so make sure staff has arranged for their travel needs adequately. Communicate all changes immediately and make sure that all UIF issues are resolved.
 

Financial Planning

Financial planning will assist in understanding early warning signs to the future of your business’ financial health. In the last two blogs we touched extensively on the importance of cash flow forecasting during this period. Please visit these articles here and here.
 

Applying Lockdown Learnings

Whether its new technology, new routines or new ways of providing services to your customers, your business would have experienced a number of learnings and cultural changes during the lockdown. This is not the time to go back to your old ways.  Collaboration tools and platforms that were put in place during lockdown should be continued with and enhanced. It’s no lie that businesses who adapted quickly through newer systems and processes navigated the lockdown better than those who ignored this area. Invest in modern technology and new ways that will get you ahead of your competitors.
Finally please always keep in mind that things may change as events unfold, so be careful in your business dealings. Plan accordingly, play open cards, and don’t make promises you will not be able to keep, especially to your customers and your staff.

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