COVID-19 has changed the way businesses all over the world operate. Managing the business and maintaining client relations can be complicated with the limitations imposed by the current pandemic. Communication has become one of the challenges that companies are trying to overcome now that meeting with clients in person is no longer possible. Now, companies rely on remote and virtual communication methods to reach out to clients and employees.
This might lead to some complications in terms of using the appropriate social cues for these types of meetings. It is essential to adapt to the necessary business etiquette for remote and virtual communication to successfully overcome the gaps or risks that might arise during this pandemic. Here are some ways business owners of which you need to take note.
Identify different channels and mediums of communication
Find the different tools and mediums that your business can take advantage of to promote successful communication. Utilizing every channel available for your business can be a great way to jump-start effective communication. Make sure to take advantage of the different devices available such as computers, laptops, mobile phones, landlines, and fax machines. Having different devices prepared can ensure effective and efficient communication anytime and anywhere. You might want to have another device on standby if ever a time comes where you’re stuck getting a cell phone repaired just minutes before a meeting. One of the disadvantages of relying on electronics for communication is how unpredictable it is when it comes to availability.
Furthermore, it is best to explore different communication tools such as Slack, a messaging application created for teams and company meetings. Also, video conferencing tools like Google Meet or Zoom can be a great way to coordinate with your employees or clients about your products and services. Keep in mind that it is essential to have patience and empathy towards your employees’ and clients’ different circumstances.
Prepare contingency plans and strategies that can help you overcome obstacles
Consider forming and identifying different teams in charge of managing crises and problems encountered in the future. This includes concerns regarding communications, sales, operations, health and safety, marketing, and many more. Forming these small teams that communicate and decide on the best actions can effectively distribute your employees’ workload and management.
Establish protocols regarding the different ways your team can promote consistent and active messaging and communication. Regular updates can primarily benefit the awareness and participation of your employees. Develop contingency plans that can guide your employees whenever there are unexpected problems along the way. Being prepared during this incalculable time can help you gain your employees’ trust and loyalty.
Always remember to update your customers and clients as well regularly. Formulate strategies that can help you get the word out whenever there are important updates or announcements that your clients should know when engaging with your business. It is beneficial to communicate your company’s actions to deal with the current events that are happening in the world—for example, steps in protecting customers and employees from the virus, etc. Transparency and trust are one of the main factors that affect customer satisfaction. Thus, developing a dependable and trustworthy relationship with your customers can highly affect your business’s growth.
Construct answers for the media
The next best move to make is to prepare answers and statements for the press and media regarding the overall impact of the pandemic on your clients and business management. Establishing a group of employees who can communicate with the media for company-related updates and news should be accomplished. This can cover any knowledge that your company has regarding health and safety protocols that your business can do to satisfy its needs and demands. It is also their duty to talk about any company policies regarding the worldwide pandemic.
Besides that, you should also release statements regarding your business’s production capacity and collaborations with organizations or other authorities. Also, action plans in case of emergency situations and employee responsibilities when met with risks or challenges along the way should be predetermined.
Plan, monitor, and improve
To conclude, with the virus’s unpredictability and the pandemic, existing plans may still not be enough for your business to survive. It is essential to monitor your business’s management and functionality and look out for weak spots or potential risks that might arrive. The pandemic is something that none of us has expected, so we could not prepare for it. Promote effective communication through the mentioned points so that your business can still flourish even during these troubling times.
