Every major economic event changes behaviors. The coronavirus will be no different and at this time it is called social distancing. In just a matter of weeks our lives have been disrupted, restaurants closing, working from home and people are being asked to not touch each other.
The need to interact, without handshakes, and yet staying connected is really the beauty of social media. We are prepared for this from a personal standpoint, via Facebook, but what about business ? Are you ready – Mr. and Mrs. Small business owner?
Nike has said it is closing all its stores in the United States, Western Europe, Canada, Australia and New Zealand to try to limit the spread of the coronavirus. Starting Sunday, March 15, Chipotle is aiding limited social contact by offering free delivery through the end of the month. Starbucks is instituting a temporary move to a “to go” model for all of its locations in the U.S. and Canada. One of the more sweeping actions taken by a major food chain, the coffee giant is looking to adhere to advice about social distancing among an exponential uptick in cases of COVID-19.
What does social distancing means to a business – first is that you need a website to allow people to place a “to go” orders on. The second part, more importantly, is to share your business experiences through social media. As a brand, you have an opportunity to engage potential customers through social interactions, before, during and even after they buy your products. When you have one satisfied customer who talks about your product or services online, it generates social activity, (even better than a handshake).
Although we are just at the start of our lockdown most people will survive by ordering take out and living their lives through Facebook and Instagram. This market disruption, this virus, will lead to a definite change in behavior. There has already been a pattern of increasing online sales in retail. I think this pandemic will underscore the importance of having a digital footprint for small businesses, until Alexa takes over the world.
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