Launching a business is challenging as it is. To couple that with the heightened pressures and obstacles of a pandemic can make it that much more difficult. Or, does it? If you haven’t started for any reason, here is an article that will help you along with that process.
A number of industries have been greatly impacted by the “new normal” and have taken measures to comply and adapt to quickly changing protocols during an economic downturn. Smaller businesses, especially those that have brick and mortars, are struggling to keep up with the tide.
Starting a new business is tough in the best situations, but it’s even harder during uncertain times. Although, doing so now may not be such a bad idea. Some of the biggest innovations come from the darkest times. People have had to rethink their business as usual since during these times there is no norm. There isn’t a model that we have successfully followed during a pandemic of this nature. It’s a first. Customers are looking for exciting brands that can reliably lead them through the storm.
Not every type of business is seeing a strong demand, however certain businesses have seen a stark uptick:
- Mental Health and Wellness
- The isolation of the pandemic causes more than just economic harm, possibly even more devastating is the mental toll the entire event has taken on people. This problem created an immense demand for therapists and mental health specialists.
- Personal Protective Equipment
- Due to protocols enacted to prevent the spread of the pandemic, more equipment for health care professionals and regular citizens were needed. Many companies have either cropped up or pivoted their operations to create masks en masse.
- Fitness Equipment
- Gyms and studios are either operating at a limited capacity or are required to close entirely. Active consumers are moving from facilities to in-home work-outs or virtual classes to stay in shape without having to leave the house.
- Online Courses
- With less time having to commute to and from the office or with workers being let-go or fired from their positions, people are looking to stay current and learn new skills as they possibly transition into a new field. For those with experience and knowledge in, in-demand fields, they can offer introductory or advanced courses to help these displaced workers or ambitious learners.
- Landscaping and Renovations
- Families are staying at home. In suburbia, families are enjoying their space and playing with relatives in the backyard. Instead of spending vacation dollars, households are spending more on renovations and landscaping to maintain the property.
- Cleaning Services
- Businesses and people alike are turning to professional sanitization services to effectively deep-clean their restaurants, offices, and homes.
- Delivery Services
- Non-essential outings are restricted in certain places, leaving many people at home
- Telehealth
- People have been concerned and even avoiding doctor office visits out of fear that they could contract the virus, resulting in telephonic or video appointments as a viable alternative.
If you are considering starting a business during the pandemic think about what consumers need and what is most important to them. How can you fill a need in the market, while still focusing on the impact consumers face day-to-day. In what ways can you balance empathy and productivity.
Moreover, marketing has changed. Traditional models are turned upside down. Main sources of traffic are ineffective. Therefore it’s important to implement digital and social strategies that enable your business to genuinely connect with your customers. Create a plan that is useful online that translates into tangible results.
Above all else, be sure to stay flexible and adaptable. Change is inevitable. Obstacles are bound to make themselves visible and real. Accept the challenges, stay positive, and know that success is far from impossible- even during a pandemic.