Our world is facing a very serious challenge with the spread of the coronavirus, but there is hope at the end of the tunnel as the government has started lifting the lockdown restrictions and regulations. Most, if not all, businesses have been greatly impacted as the economy has taken a hit because of COVID-19. But this is a unique opportunity for brands to unite and work together. Our communities need each other now more than ever. People need support, understanding, education, resources. Social media can provide just that and can be extremely powerful if it’s done correctly. Historically, businesses that have chosen a more progressive strategy of refocusing spending during a recession have outperformed businesses that made sweeping cuts, according to studies that analyzed recent recessions. Here are few ideas to consider as the restrictions are being lifted:
- Connect with Your Customers on Social Media During a Critical Moment
We are all dealing with the impact the coronavirus outbreak has had on our lives. This is a time to really show empathy to others and help where you can. This is a time we all need to be sensitive — and not too salesy or pushy — but it is a great opportunity for your brand to stand out during a difficult time. More people are on social media now while stuck at home, scanning for updates, and trying to stay connected in a suddenly isolated nation.
- Make Sure Your Business Can Be Found Online
I am sure you have noticed that more people are online right now than in their cars or walking the sidewalks. Search traffic has increased significantly over the past months and will continue to climb as we hunker down. We’re all glued to our computers and phones looking for updates within our community. We’re also looking for entertainment and ways to pass the time. For some, that includes shopping online.
- Online marketing: Yes, you need it!
With more people at home in front of their screens, it’s a great opportunity for businesses to use online marketing to connect with their customers and gain a competitive advantage. Oh, and it’s a great chance to save some money within your digital marketing budget. On average, cost-per-clicks have decreased across all verticals since the beginning of the lockdown worldwide. This gives your business another opportunity to scoop up that lost market share from others pulling back during this time. This helps your business to stay ahead or jump in front of your competition.
To climb to the top of the SERPs takes time and strategic optimization strategies. If you don’t continue to optimize your website and content daily, you lose valuable ground in the search results and your freefall could cost your business in lost revenue.
- Prepare Your Business for the Bounce-Back Surge
Unique circumstances provide opportunities for a special offer, during this uncertain time, you can show support for your customer base by offering special discounts that will keep your revenue flowing. The coronavirus will eventually fade away soon and that’s when normalcy returns, and consumers’ spending habits stabilize. You must remember that all your marketing strategies, especially SEO are more of a long-term strategy. What you do today for your SEO campaign will affect your organic search traffic two months from now. Pausing your SEO campaign now could have a detrimental impact on your revenue potential two months from now when the coronavirus starts to become a distant memory.
In conclusion, I will leave you with these words from Maya Angelou, I quote: “Every storm runs out of water eventually.” This storm will run out of water and will pass too. Once we are on the other side; let us not rush into trying to recoup all the lost income. Be empathetic and remember every business went through the same storm, let us help them get running and in the long run we will all be alright. Hang in there, be strong, don’t lose focus and remember why you started doing what you are doing.