Marketing Your Business During the Coronavirus Crisis

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio — We’re operating in a time of uncertainty and fear due to the coronavirus. The governor of Ohio has closed schools for the next three weeks and he’s also banned gatherings of more than 100 people. Many, if not most, public events have been canceled. 

Obviously this will impact our national and local economy. The question is, how much and how long will it last? What’s the new normal look like? How can we get through this period of uncertainty?

Relative to the human element, small businesses will bear the brunt of this situation. We must do what we can to stay strong. Soon we’ll be entering a new normal. But until that happens, and things level out, you might be wondering, is it appropriate to market your business during the coronavirus crisis? And, how to do it. 

With the right tone, posture and approach, it’s appropriate to market your business during the coronavirus crisis. The major economic development projects are still happening. The global supply chain should become more localized. Your prospects and customers will be spending more time at home with the news media — wanting to know the latest news and insights. Leadership and visibility will lend more credibility to your company – and you’ll come out stronger on the other side.

Here are the top five things to consider when marketing your business during the coronavirus crisis:

1. Show how you’re providing resources, education and support to your employees and customers.
2. Embrace your leadership role and provide consistent updates on your progress and also share your business continuity plan. It could be helpful to others.
3. Leverage your media partners by providing tips and insights into what you’re seeing in the market.
4. Using the right tone and posture, maintain, if not increase, your presence using trusted local media platforms.
5. According to @Jim Houck, check your pre-scheduled social media posts. Make sure they match the tone of the current environment.

Copyright 2024 The Business Journal, Youngstown, Ohio.