It’s been a whirlwind past couple of days. Coronavirus (COVID-19) has canceled major events, closed schools, impacted travel, and given us all a new appreciation for hand sanitizer. Amidst the chaos of it all, businesses are left grappling with how to best handle the situation, and how to simply keep employees and customers safe and informed.
Good communication is key to any business relationship, and never has it been more important than in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Though it feels as if there was no time to make a plan, take the time to do that now. Develop a strategy for educating employees and customers on doing business with your company, and use these tips to provide the information they need to stay up-to-date.
1. Utilize Your Website
Just as your website is a powerful tool to deliver your marketing message, it can also be used as a “home base” for people to find important updates and guidelines about COVID-19. Use an alert banner or homepage hero image to display the latest news, a change in business hours, or a safety tip of the day. You can also feature articles from reputable sources like the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and your local health department. Steer clear of any news coming from less reliable sources to ensure you are providing accurate information that is valuable and most importantly, correct.
2. Send Regular Emails
Email is another great way to keep communication lines open and deliver information recipients can read at their convenience. Guideline reminders like making sure you wash your hands, avoiding handshakes and crowds, and staying home if you’re not feeling well, can be easily shared in this format. Email can also deliver updates about your company, the steps you’re taking to prevent the spread of the virus, and any changes taking place such as transitioning to working remotely.
3. Post on Social Media
While there seems to be a sea of social media posts currently feeding the confusion and fear people are feeling right now, your posts can be the calm in the storm. This is where many of your employees and customers turn to to get information – meet them where they are and be the one relaying news from reliable sources that help reassure and educate readers while informing them of company updates.
4. Put Up Signage
Seems simple and maybe a little old school, but putting signs up in bathrooms, kitchens, and meeting rooms is an easy way to remind people to do their part in keeping germs at bay by washing hands or using hand sanitizer (if you’ve been lucky enough to find some you can purchase.) Use signage to post updates and guidelines, or even to inform visitors or customers of policies you’ve put in place for their protection.
With a plan in place, a strategy in mind and a calm, clear and consistent approach to communication, you are showing your employees and customers that their safety, health, and well-being are of top priority. If you need help with implementing these tips, feel free to give us a call. In the meantime…
Stay well.
