How to Keep Start-ups Alive and Kicking During the COVID-19 Pandemic           

Words Kechi Chinda

COVID-19 started almost like a rumour, whispers of this virus over in China. Then it seemed like it was something that would never reach us, it barely affected us, it was almost like an afterthought mentioned on the news every so often. We could have never imagined the impact it would have on us, turning everything as we’ve known it upside down. All our plans, our ideas brought to a grinding halt. Allegedly. Workplaces, businesses brought to a standstill. Supposedly.

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Is this the reality, do we really hold our hands up and surrender to this phantom virus? How do we turn this time into something positive? How can we adapt and utilise resources we had never considered before to make the best of a bad situation?

Let’s be honest, most businesses are suffering, especially the smaller start up’s, that we cannot deny. However, there is a way to survive in this climate. There are ways you can still market your business and maintain and gain new clients spending little to nothing of your marketing budget.

So we have done the legwork for you and have summarised 6 easy steps to maintain and grow your business during the COVID-19 pandemic.

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1. Re-establish Your Niche

There is a reason you set up shop in the first place, that reason still exists but think about how you can adapt that slightly to fit in with how the world is currently functioning. Does this mean you become more digital? Does this mean you aim for a wider target audience? Broaden your horizons but maintain the reasons why you should always be first choice.

2. Show Your Value

Create high quality content. People recognise and respect value. If you are putting information out there make sure the audience has something tangible to take away. By teaching them something you are creating authority.

3. Expand Your Network

Utilise tools like LinkedIn and build connections with those in your industry. Instinct often tells us we can succeed alone but actually building relationships and pooling your knowledge works to build a stronger brand presence.

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4. Position Yourself as an Expert

You are good at what you do, that’s why you do it. Show everyone why you are the best at this. What knowledge do you have that others could benefit from? Target professional conferences and webinars, build your portfolio and gain more exposure.

5. Optimise Yourself

Take the long term strategy approach, make sure all your content is littered with high quality keywords. This won’t work immediately but the more content you develop, the more highly you will rank online and in turn you will be recognised as a thought leader in your industry.

6. Build a Digital Relationship With Your Clients

Utilise what you already have! You have an existing client base, this is the perfect time to build a relationship with them. Companies are reaching out directly to clients and asking them what they want to see. Listen to those suggestions and see if what they are asking for is something you can provide. Clients feel more connected to companies who understand them.

These should allow you to weather this storm and allow you to come out the other side, not only closer to your clients but set up to be more adaptable should something like this happen again.

Kechi Chinda - Senior Project Manager