The COVID-19 pandemic has affected almost every area of our life. Lives and livelihoods are at stake. Businesses have not been spared either. Economic uncertainties and shifts in working patterns have affected business operations. The pandemic has thrown both employees and customers into a sea of confusion. So, what’s the option for businesses?
In a bid to survive, many businesses have deployed various austere measures. These actions have led to cost-cutting, even in critical areas like communication. Without their knowledge, cutting communication affects their business operations adversely. But how can businesses improve communication during a pandemic?
Tips for improving communication during COVID-19 in your business
If you are a business owner, there are many unanswered questions regarding the role of communication during COVID-19. You are not alone. Please read through the article as we tackle tips on how to improve communication during the pandemic. The tips will ensure you are on the same page with both your team and your customers. Let’s start, shall we?
• Invest in technology
Now that COVID–19 is here and here to stay, we need to be ahead of the game. Social distancing and working from home is the new normal. With this in mind, as a business owner, you need proper communication technology to connect with different stakeholders. With messed up communication, your business may suffer from financial losses, misinformation, and unwarranted scrutiny.
Technology, whether before or after the pandemic, has always been pivotal in communication. Use video conferencing tools such as Zoom and Skype to connect with your stakeholders remotely. These collaborative tools enable you to conduct meetings with your stakeholders without them leaving their desks. Isn’t that convenient? The tools are also efficient and cost-friendly.
A two-way radio is another effective communication tool to consider. Even as technology in communication advances, voice has no substitute. Two-way radios provide a reliable, simple, and straightforward model of communication. They are also long-lasting. You can rely on them even in the toughest situations.
You can also invest in technology like VoIP to conduct phone calls over the internet. Also, get messaging platforms to connect better with your employees. These tech upgrades are inexpensive and efficient. They aid in improving communication for your business, which could solidify your financial position.
• Develop a feedback platform
In any business environment, constructive feedback is essential. Develop a platform for steering feedback during this period. Getting to know how people perceive the company and allowing them to give their suggestions can lead to your business’s success. Feedback enables you to identify with the sentiments of both employees and customers.
Build trust so that you can get unbiased feedback. Cultivate some listening skills to avoid draining people, especially during these stressful times. After receiving feedback, be responsive and adaptive to change your business tactics to match the current period.
• Develop a routine for communication
Almost everyone, including professionals, is struggling to adapt to sudden changes. Also, the rise of fake news on social media platforms is not helping. As a business owner, you are responsible for assisting your stakeholders in navigating through the current situation.
How so? You might ask. Constantly communicate. Hold regular meetings with your team. Fix a specific time you can chat with your team. Promptly send the right communication to alleviate any fears and misinformation.
What about your clients? Be compassionate. Keep the communication with your clients sensitive and authentic amid the current situation. For example, communicate some relief efforts on how you are assisting your clients during this period of COVID-19.
Avoid being aggressive. Be careful about what you communicate and use a friendly tone. Your communication should be customer-centric. Consumers are keen to ditch those brands that may exploit them during these times. It is essential to keep your customers aligned with your business during these times and beyond.
Final thoughts
As a business, you need to keep your staff, clients, and other partners connected and informed during the pandemic. Use communication to keep your stakeholders in touch. However, choose communication strategies that suit your business.
