How to Take Your Business Online During Lockdown
The 2020 pandemic presented unprecedented challenges for small businesses. However, amidst these difficulties, opportunities for growth and adaptation emerged.
This guide explores strategies to transition your business online and maintain vital customer connections during periods of disruption.
Assessing Your Digital Footprint
Businesses exhibit varying degrees of online integration, ranging from direct-to-consumer brands thriving on social media to traditional brick-and-mortar stores initiating email newsletters.
External events often accelerate digital adoption, compelling businesses to enhance their online presence.
Lockdowns have significantly altered consumer behavior, driving individuals to the internet for communication, entertainment, and secure shopping experiences.
Practical Strategies for Going Digital
The following suggestions are tailored for small businesses aiming to establish or improve their online operations.
These strategies are designed to be accessible regardless of technical expertise or budget constraints, accommodating diverse business types and skill levels.
Key Areas of Focus:
- Setting up an online store
- Growing your community on social media
- Using your email subscriber list
1. Establishing an Online Storefront
With physical storefronts temporarily inaccessible, transitioning to online sales channels becomes essential.
Consider the following options to facilitate online transactions and maintain revenue streams.
Optimizing Existing Online Stores
For businesses with pre-existing online stores, ensure seamless operation and customer experience.
Consider updating featured products and offering special bundles to cater to evolving customer needs.
For example, pharmacies are offering deals on self-care products, and bakeries are delivering at-home baking kits.
Local bakery adapted by offering at-home baking kits, directly delivered.
Alternative E-Commerce Solutions
Businesses without existing online stores can explore these alternatives:
- Delivery Apps: Restaurants and cafes can utilize platforms like JustEat, Deliveroo, Glovo, or UberEats to offer delivery services.
- Online Marketplaces: Craft, clothing, and lifestyle businesses can register on platforms like Etsy or Not On The High Street.
- E-commerce Platforms: Utilize services such as Shopify, Woocommerce, or BigCommerce to create an online store and integrate it with your website or social media profiles.
- Social Media Shopping: Leverage shopping features on Facebook and Instagram (integration with an e-commerce service is required).
Simple Solutions for Immediate Sales
If setting up a full online store is not immediately feasible, provide contact information on your website and social media pages.
Encourage customers to place orders via phone or email for delivery or curbside pickup.
This approach serves as an effective interim solution while you develop a more comprehensive online presence.
Transparency Regarding Supply Chain Disruptions
If your supply chain or delivery options have been affected, communicate these changes to your customers promptly.
Many businesses are offering curbside pickup to maintain sales while observing safety guidelines.