Millions of Americans have been asked to do the unimaginable: Don’t go to work, don’t go to school, don’t leave the house at all, unless you have to. Jennifer Sherlock, president and founder of Jenna Communications, a premiere agency for small business in the greater Philadelphia area, has not stepped foot inside her new, pristine office space in weeks.  She is between a rock and hard place: laying off employees, while continuing to work with clients on projects she may not get paid for. She is not alone during this time of confusion and uncertainty.  If you are worried about money, find out what these small business owners are doing.

Brand Awareness.

As business changes by the minute, Sherlock has noticed a shift in new clients from different industries she had never worked with before. “I have been posting weekly videos with valuable content to not only drive brand awareness, but to help provide people with all of the positive things that my clients are participating in, as well as thanking our unsung heroes who are putting their lives on the line to help us”. Her recent interview with her mail carrier created a buzz of gratitude, as his service is so essential right now.

Learn A New Skill, Quickly.

A couple of months ago web expert Laura Eagin received a coupon in the mail for Google Ads.  She tossed that piece of paper to the side because her team was busy and thriving.  “Now we’re launching our very first Google Ads and testing what works best”, says Eagin.  She wants to encourage business owners to “roll up your sleeves and learn that new skill. You probably won’t do it perfect the first time, and that’s okay.  Hundreds of thousands of customers are looking for your products and services and want to find you”.

Online Sales Push With Discounts.

Hana Abboud has been mandated by Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer to close her bridal boutique until April 13th, 2020, as it falls under the non essential business category.  “People have stopped shopping due to fears of having to delay weddings”, says Abboud, “but we are still doing our normal marketing”.  Many small businesses have gone into overdrive to engage their audiences with promotions, and for Abboud that means trying to sell her gowns at reduced prices online.

Create Information Gathering Opportunities.

“I’ll be honest”, says Candace Yaeger, MBA, “My public speaking has screeched to a halt, it’s disappointing to have so many conferences, keynotes, and workshops canceled”. Many events nationwide are being forced to go virtual or reschedule into October and November of 2020.  Yaeger recommends offering free resources to existing clients or potential new clients. She does this by virtual dolphin tanks, support groups, and group coaching sessions. “When they come out of this on top, they will know who to contact for their business needs” says Yaeger.

Keep It Simple and Niched.

Looking for a simple, yet effective starting place? Rose Miller, founder of a full service professional organizing and staging company, created a Facebook group to share her personal and business hacks, which have attracted a large number of followers in a matter of days.  Even in a dual income home Miller says “Yes I am worried about money, but I choose to be proactive as opposed to paranoid”.

Don’t Leave Your Appointment Schedule Blank.

The hardest hit in the health and wellness industry are those that offer spa services, hair care, massage therapy, and acupuncture.  Zeina Alawieh, founder of the Michigan based Beauty and Wellness Center specializing in IV therapy, is at a standstill.  “I have zero income coming in”, says Alawieh, “my best advice is to always have some money set aside for moments like these”.  Alawieh remains in contact with her clients via email and has made herself available for telemedicine services. Like Alawieh, practitioners are booking into the May and June months with hopes they won’t have to push this back any further.

Let’s stay connected, follow me @drrubinatahir.