Working through the coronavirus pandemic may seem like an impossible mission for some, while others are thriving. This unprecedented time is an opportunity for leaders and their teams to learn from their experience and use their new insights wisely.
It’s not easy. Employees need to adapt, and business models may have to change, but those who step up to the challenge will be better off.
We must remember that this will end and there will be a “new normal” for having gone through it. You need to decide as a business, a leader or an employee where you want to be on the other side.
10 Ways Your Business Can Thrive During COVID-19
1. Connectivity is your power.
You are as powerful as you are connected. Stay in touch with all your business contacts and colleagues, even more than usual. Don’t let those contacts slip. You are as strong as your weakest link. The more you give, the stronger you will emerge.
2. You must know, and be comfortable with, technology.
Even the tech-savvy are working through tech difficulties. The technology available is designed to be easy to use. Where there is a necessity, there is will. Will yourself to experiment with ways of using the tools available. Use adversity to push you to new heights, from figuring out how to look your best in video calls to DIY computer repairs to opening documents.
3. You must look powerful and in control on video calls.
You may be able to skip the power suit while at home, although if people are used to seeing you that way, keep up appearances on video calls. It’s not just what you wear, it’s your posture, style and demeanor. Continue to command respect and stay in control of your audience on video.
4. Giving comfort is more important than information.
Information keeps changing, but assurance needs to be constant. We might not be able to change the situation, but we can help get each other through it. It is not enough to talk compassionately; you must be compassionate. Acts of kindness go a long way.
5. You cannot be perceived as expendable.
Do the job of many and you will keep yours. Now is not the time to wonder what your worth is. It’s a time to roll up your sleeves and ask what you can do and have a suggestion of what that might be.
6. Do everything you want to be done.
Many people have limited bandwidth right now. Do as much of what people are asking for as you can, then do what you want to be done for you. Be sure to thank your team profusely for getting everything done.
7. Transparency is important.
Our minds are racing with unknowns. Share what you know with your team, share what you are considering, and play out best- and worst-case scenarios. Be truthful in your message. What people are imagining may be far worse.
8. Be hyper-sensitive.
Everyone is stressed. There is a level of anxiety we are living with that is impacting people in many ways, some we can’t imagine. If empathy was not a part of the work environment before, it’s got to be a focal point now.
9. Respond promptly.
People do not have patience these days. Don’t make them wait. They need answers and help and do not want to worry about why they are not hearing from you.
10. Health is the new religion.
Be ready to share your favorite health tips. The door to anyone’s interest is talking about what they care about and everyone is interested in health now. We used to talk about work-life balance but what we are realizing now is that there is no work without health. Health is not about having more time away from work, it’s about doing healthy things and making better choices.
Please tell us what you are hearing, seeing and doing to help your business as well as those of your colleagues during this time.
About the author:
Nancy Trent is a writer and speaker, a lifelong health and beauty advocate, a globe-trotting trend watcher and the founder and president of Trent & Company, the leading wellness PR firm. Trent & Company, which launched many health and beauty brands, grew out of Nancy’s personal and passionate commitment to helping people live longer and healthier lives. A former journalist for New York magazine, Nancy has written seven books on healthy lifestyles, serves on the editorial boards of several magazines and travels around the world speaking at conferences and trade shows on trends in the marketplace. She is a recognized expert in PR with more than 30 years of experience creating and managing highly successful campaigns. Nancy can be reached at (212) 966-0024 or through e-mail at [email protected]. You may also visit www.trentandcompany.com.
