What to do while your business is Shutdown

4/6/2020 (Permalink)

Across the nation, we are all doing our best to work through the coronavirus pandemic. As we try and contain the spread of the virus, millions have had their normal work routine shifted. This has caused chaos for many in the workforce. A survey by the U.S. Chamber of commerce found that 54% of small businesses have temporarily closed or will close within the next few weeks. (U.S. Chamber of Commerce) While we can all hope that this emergency will pass soon, there are steps that business owners and managers can be taking now, to prepare for the reopening of the economy.

Continue Cash Flow

The first is to apply for loans and grants. By now, you have seen the federal stimulus package and the provision for loans and grants for business. This economic relief is supposed to help with the burden that the shutdown has caused for businesses across the country. If you haven’t already applied for this, you should consider it and act quickly to make sure you are prepared. Likewise, local banks and credit unions have been working with businesses to give out low-interest loans to pay for operations until they are ready to reopen.

During this shutdown it is important to do what you are able. While operations have been severely impacted for many businesses, doing what little is possible will help until full operations can resume. As an example, many local restaurants have offered curbside and take out options to maintain a source of cash flow. Although you will likely not maintain your regular cash flow, doing what you can, will help to get you through.

Stay Connected

Another option is to utilize your social media channels to connect with your customers. Although they can not be at your location physically, you can still connect digitally. This shows your commitment to your customers and your appreciation for their business. Making sure your brand is still in your customers mind will make sure they return once able. Showing what you are doing to improve or change about your location during this closure is a great move.

Clean While the Building is Empty

At SERVPRO of Minot we are helping businesses during this COVID-19 shutdown by providing proactive bio-remediation cleanings. By going into offices, dealerships, restaurants, gyms, banks, and all other kinds of businesses, we are providing sanitation and disinfection of viral hazards giving those facilities peace of mind for when customers and employees return. Our hospital-grade disinfectants have been found to work against similar viruses to the SARS-CoV-2 virus.

Following CDC guidelines and using the correct personal protective equipment, our technicians are prepared to completely sanitize any workspace without exposing themselves or other members of that organization. By completely sanitizing a space, it ensures that your facilities are not at risk of causing sickness to anyone who enters. The efficiency of our trained technicians allows us to cover a large space quickly, making it ideal for companies with large office spaces or facilities.

Even if you do not have a large space, cleaning your building during this shutdown with proven disinfectants and washing your hands afterwards will go a long way in stopping the spread of the disease, as well as giving your customers peace of mind once they return.

Even though your operations may be shut down or limited, there are still steps you can take during this time to make sure you are being productive and proactive. Be sure you are ready to bring your customers back in once it is safe and sanitary for you to do so.

US Chamber of Commerce (https://www.uschamber.com/report/special-report-coronavirus-and-small-business)