At the moment of crisis, it’s time to take a lot of action even if your small business has come across the hard times or not. It is best to know how to take necessary steps in making thorough preparations for your business and team to outlive challenging times—during and after the critical period.
Small businesses and companies are vital to the nation’s economy, so it is a must to keep thriving through the pandemic. But in such an incredible crisis, how? Here are five strategies on how entrepreneurs can protect their businesses.
1. Plan ahead for the future crisis.
You may take note of all the measures you wish you had considered before the crisis. List down the resources you wish you had taken access to. Also, include on the list how you would have better prepared your employees. Use this experience to establish new crisis protocols so you can create preventive action materials for the future.
2. Ask for help and advice.
If asking for help as a small business entrepreneur can sometimes make you feel vulnerable, it is okay. You may be surprised by what people will do to support you when you genuinely ask. During any sort of change that leaves you with questions, not just during hard times, you can always go to people around you and ask for guidance.
Moreover, if you’ve been affected in what way by a crisis, don’t lose hope and think you are late to do something about it. You are never too late to make a way. Not only are there loan options available, but there will be constant help reserved for economic recovery from both public and private sources for small businesses.
3. Give extra support and inspire your staff to act.
If you, the business owner, may feel affected by the unpredicted obstacles, so are your employees. Always provide them with reminders of the vision and the values your company has and why they chose to be there.
During times of economic, social and political turmoil, when spirits are low, take the leadership action to inspire them to work hard. Make this opportunity to turn what feels like a distressing moment into a teachable moment with your staff. These are the perfect times to make an impact both personally and professionally, by lending an ear, applauding positive behavior and affirming those around you.
4. Brainstorm and conceptualize effective ideas.
In the midst of deprivation, it can be difficult for many people to see the positives. This is the right time to set time aside with your team to carry out a brainstorming session on how to turn a bad situation into a good business opportunity and help those in need. Planning ideas with your team is not only great for team-building but may also help your business to survive and thrive.
5. Care to share.
These are the times when you will learn a lot of things. Share what you’ve grasped during a crisis so you may not forget your business’ challenges and how you coped up with them. No matter how small or big, these will serve as tools for your business, and for others.
These painful challenges are not to forget, but to take note of them because this is what young entrepreneurs of the world need to know: how those before them defeated the impediments.
How you react is what defines your leadership.
Your reactions affect your ability to be resilient in your business. Always take in mind that challenges are meant for us to be grateful and to learn from it. It reminds us why we began this journey and why we need to thrive to help others in need.