With the threat of a second lockdown at any moment, we are all concerned about what steps we should take next. Many businesses have already taken new steps to keep afloat — by moving to e-commerce, changing their business strategies, and offering new services.

Mike Jordan, the CEO of Summit Defence, has put together five tips to help your business survive and thrive during the ongoing pandemic.

1. Re-evaluate your strategy

A solid strategy is a foundation for each business to be fruitful. Yet, amid COVID, it’s more important to know precisely what keeps your clients returning, regardless of what the pandemic brings. Have a critical look at your product and clientele. Engage with your target audience online and offline to find out what they need and value, and adjust accordingly. Running a business is about solving problems. Pinpoint the ‘problem’ your clients have and how you can offer them a pandemic-proof solution.

2. It’s not failure

First and foremost, don’t accept defeat. Be proactive! Having to change doesn’t equal failure. Change can bring a lot of positive things, so aim to both preserve and improve your brand. Take on the challenge and allow your business thrive with a fresh start.

3. Join the digital age

Now that we’re this far into the 21st century, you can’t ignore the significant advantages of the web anymore. A robust online identity has always been important, but even more so when millions of people are confined to their homes. How can your business keep running and provide products and services over the internet? Start delivering your goods and services, open a shop online, or shift to a streaming service. The internet is the first place people will look when they need something, especially with many of us working from home. Your online existence can also be a great tool to keep your target audience informed about any changes, promotions, and new opening times.

4. Safety first

Many businesses have been forced to close their doors and send staff home because of their inability to provide a safe workspace. If you have no choice but to keep your physical business location open with visiting customers, you should assess where the risks lie and protect yourself, your staff, and your customers. Some solutions include a contactless checkout, enforcing social distancing, installing safety screens, and clear communication around the rules to both staff and clients. If people are reassured about a safe environment, they will return regardless of where this pandemic is heading.

5. Be creative

Adapt your products, services, and business strategies to the new health rules we have been subjected to without losing your business flair. Utilize what you already have, creatively. What aspects of your business or products could be slightly adapted to provide essential products or services, and provide national aid? Look for gaps in the market and how your business can play into them, while improving along the way for a more robust future.