“A crisis can change the future for good”.
Whichever way you interpret this saying, the answer holds true. To date, we’ve witnessed an amazing spirit of innovation and resilience displayed by local business operators in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic and resultant national lockdown.
Here are six things to look forward to for the rest of 2020.
1. Adapting to the New Normal.
As local business operators, we have one distinct advantage, our flexibility. It's not always the strongest species that survives; it's sometimes the most adaptable. Companies with flatter structures are in a better position to capitalise on new opportunities quickly.
Tip
Keep your eyes and ears open for brand new opportunities when you communicate with your network, your employees, your suppliers and your customers.
2. Engaging the New Market.
Working in Radio, I’ve been privy to some incredible local success stories - local companies which have made full use of the local communication platforms at their disposal. Some have turned their Brands into Household Names, while others have secured multi-million Rand contracts from a simple message on the airwaves. There has never been a better time to utilise the power of radio, in conjunction with the graphically-rich, pinpoint accuracy of online and social media. Audience engagement on radio is at an all-time high – over 90% of Algoa FM’s listeners, for example, have been listening to more radio during lockdown.
Tip
Use multiple platforms. When you see it, and you hear it, and you can interact with it, the increased impact is exponential.
3. Virtually Being There.
It doesn’t seem like a lifetime ago that 500 megabytes was enough data for an entire month’s activity. How the digital world has grown up in 15 years. Today I’d rate the lifespan of 500Mb in our household at 10 minutes. Because “Dad, we’re busy playing Fortnite online with our friends.” It’s a social norm of the next generation. I was telling my daughter how when I was at school, our TV only had 3 channels. How she laughed. And that we did not have the Internet. She was appalled. Current high-speed Internet mixed with a need for Social distancing has necessitated the development of exciting concepts and innovations, the latest being Virtual Group Workout Apps and - excitingly for business - the emergence of the Virtual Exhibition.
Tip
More virtual shows and initiatives are launching in the coming months (Lifestyle ; Arts & Culture) - keep a lookout for more info on these.
4. Shouting at the TV.
Our beloved Sports and Teams are returning to the screen – in most cases to empty stadiums for the time being – but hey, let’s get it on! The return of the main sporting disciplines in June includes the NASCAR Cup Series from Martinsville Speedway, MMA’s UFC Fight Night from Las Vegas, and Premier League Football action (Aston Villa vs Sheffield United). The resurgence continues throughout July, with the Austrian Formula 1 Grand Prix from T20 Cricket (ENG vs AUS), the MotoGP of Spain, Boxing’s WBO Title Fight from Las Vegas, and Test Cricket (ENG vs West Indies).
The World Rugby 7’s resumes in Singapore in October, plus Qualifying matches for the Rugby World Cup 2021 taking place from October through December.
Tip
Formula 1 and MotoGP are both resuming with Double Weekends - two full events over two consecutive weekends at their respective venues (Red Bull Ring and Circuito de Jerez).
5. Delivering to the Home.
Have you considered online ordering for your business? If not, perhaps give it some thought. US online retailing giant Amazon’s Founder and CEO, Jeff Bezos, is set to become the world’s first trillionaire later this year. If you have, please drop me a DM. I’d love to take a look at your service and promote it where possible. With website add-ons like Shopify and the emergence of mobile ordering facilities, it’s now easier than ever for you, as a local business, to get your products into the hands of your customers.
Tip
If you’re considering a third-party delivery provider, be sure to research their claims. What are customers saying about them online? Are business owners benefitting? Are their fee structures fair?
6. Reconnecting and Restoring Balance.
Working remotely has been a battle of wits, and where children or extended family are in the home, often a battle of wills. It’s a battle that we have endured and survived with love and patience. Years of practice has ensured that many of us in this game are equally productive whether we are in the office, on the road, in an airport lounge, in our home office space, or if need be, next to the swimming pool.
But…
A return to the workplace in whatever shape, with whichever strict conditions applied, will finally bring back those good feelings, the positive vibes, and the familiar balanced structure of being part of a highly talented and respected team. And that is what I am looking forward to the most.
Tip
Stay up to date on the latest safety protocols and guidelines here.
