What will the world look like after the pandemic has passed? It’s hard to determine how COVID-19 has changed us and what “normal” will look like once quarantines and lockdowns are over. In this atmosphere of uncertainty, making big decisions like starting a new business may feel exceptionally daunting. Long-time entrepreneurs have been forced to make changes and grapple with unexpected challenges. New company owners entering the field will have to deal with these same issues — on top of the strain of learning the ropes. This doesn’t mean it’s a bad time to start a business, however. You just have to do so with the needs of an evolving market in mind.
You need to have a digital presence
We can’t pinpoint all the things that will be different post-pandemic. But one change is likely here to stay: digital commerce. It’s not just that COVID-19 triggered rapid growth in the digital marketplace and ecommerce — consumers have developed new habits in spending, too. Does this mean any business which is primarily or solely digital is guaranteed to succeed? Not necessarily because market considerations, such as supply and competition, are still in place. But an entrepreneur who launches with an awareness of the need to digitize will have a stronger start.
Prioritize cybersecurity
With an increase in online activity comes, predictably, increased danger for online security. Whether it’s your business or personal information or that of your clients, any data that you have in your systems needs to be secured from cyberattacks, as well as data breaches due to human error.
One way you can ensure that your company is safe from cyberattacks is to hire a cybersecurity expert to make sure everything is locked down and keep you and your employees informed about how to practice online safety. But even if you aren’t ready to work with a cybersecurity specialist, keep in mind some basic rules for protecting your devices and information: Make sure you use strong passwords, don’t work on insecure networks, and consider using a VPN (virtual private network), as well as multi-factor authentication.
Automate your systems
As well as going digital when it comes to sales and storefronts, you can make the work of business management a lot less stressful if you use apps and software to automate your systems as much as possible. You will not believe the amount of time you will save when you have software to take care of your staff scheduling, email marketing, and order processing and logistics.
New business owners often find payroll to be one especially overwhelming area to deal with, so consider using an online platform or app that will take care of your calculations, tax filing, and deposits. Learn how to process pay from a mobile phone so you can set payroll reminders, sign paystubs, run reports, and more on the fly.
Be educated on small business best practices
No matter when you opt to start your business, be equipped with the knowledge you need to build a strong company that can withstand ups and downs. Especially be aware of good management practices by prioritizing the human elements of your business: Create a strong team and invest in your employees. Also, practice excellent customer service. Being organized and prompt in communication are essential characteristics for any business owner, at any time. Lastly, always set a budget and stick to it so you don’t end up with cash flow problems.
Difficult as this time has been for many, the world post-pandemic will offer many opportunities for growth and development. Your new business, if you plan it well, may well become a part of this new post-pandemic economic landscape. If you need assistance finding logistics solutions for your new company, Logical Logistics can provide you with the resources you need to succeed. Get in touch to get a quote today!
Chelsea Lamb wants to share her knowledge with those who have decided to take on entrepreneurship. She co-created Business Pop to provide insight and advice to those who aspire to succeed in owning a business.
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