What Works: COVID-19 and changing business as usual
Submitted by Jeff Munson on Wed, 03/25/2020 - 1:45pm
UPDATE: I want to help any business, at no charge, who is struggling with how to pivot and continue operations within guidelines. Help provided over Zoom or phone call. Link to: https://whatworksconsultants.as.me/connection
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In the business environment change brought on by COVID-19, there will be winners, maintainers, and losers. Although much is out of our control, business leaders who lean into innovation and what they can control are more likely to maintain or even win.
This is a time to think differently. Those who cling to business as usual or status quo will find themselves stuck. Why? Because change is inevitable. But change during times of crisis is essential.
How to think differently about business during COVID-19 restrictions.
First, let’s go back to basics. What is business? It’s receiving consideration (money) for goods and services rendered.
— What good or service do you provide?
— How has COVID-19 changed customer demand?
— Is there a way your goods or services can be repurposed to serve demand differently?
— How can you use technology to support your business innovation?
— What else needs to change to support your pivot?
— Is there an opportunity for the pivot to become part of your post-crisis business?
Look to online business models for inspiration. I will give an example from Reno. Junkee Clothing exchange is following the Stitch Fix model with surprise bags that they will either deliver via mail or arrange for curbside pickup. These surprise bags are available in various types and the store asks for the shopper to relay their style in a variety of creative ways. Post a picture of you in your most favorite outfit. Provide sizes and preferences. No app required. Junkee has boosted their offer via Facebook advertising.
Package your offerings. Kei Sushi is doing curbside pickup and offering their menu and limited combos. You call in your order, note your order and your vehicle and, when you arrive, you pay by cash or card. Curbside personnel wears gloves.
Pivot to serve the need. I have refocused my consulting work to helping businesses develop sustainable process innovations. Business as usual has decreased so I have found a new way to use my skills to meet the current demand. I deliver all consulting via Zoom and am offering longer complimentary sessions. Go to www.whatworksconsultants.com right now to claim your private session with me.
Give back and get long term exposure and goodwill. Zoom’s CEO is offering Zoom to K-12 schools for free. Wynn is paying his employees for the job of staying home and staying safe. Check out this article from Forbes on all the ways companies are giving back.
Open for business doesn’t necessarily mean business as usual. How are you open for business right now? Post below. Let people in Carson City know you are open and adapting. How are you doing business differently? If you need help, I’m here to support you. The floor is yours, Carson City.
ABOUT DIANE DYE HANSEN
Diane Dye Hansen has more than 20 years of experience in communication and change management gained in the sectors of government, non-profit, healthcare, publishing, advertising, entertainment, and SaaS. Her Critical Opportunity Theory helps organizations and leaders turn challenge into opportunity through proper leadership and team communication.
She is the president and founder of What Works Consultants, Inc., a consulting firm which helps business leaders communicate when communication is hard. This is done through research, strategic communication planning, change management consulting, and training. She and Christine Salvo host “Business Therapy” Monday and Wednesday mornings at 7:30 am on KNVC 95.1 FM. She is a columnist on CarsonNow.org. To meet her and learn how she and her team can help your company, visit What Works Consultants, Inc. online at www.whatworksconsultants.com.
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