Communication with customers is crucial in Times of Uncertainty

Sep 16, 2022

COVID-19 makes many small company owners and their customers perplexed and confused. There is a temptation to stop your communication with your customers in worry of causing a problem. However, this isn't the right time to be silent. Clients must communicate with you- not just in the present however, at all times during a crisis.

The general public requires clear and concise information about the latest policies, plans, orders delivery delays, statuses of the orders, as well as any resources for assistance. Customers who are new to the store must know the status of your business and what stock you have readily available.

The public has demonstrated a huge amount of love and support for small and medium-sized companies And the ones who are loyal customers can help you get through this time of shutting down. Although we may be separating our business, there's no reason to separate your enterprise from the rest of the world and you should take a closer look at your communication strategy.

Selecting the right tone

A lot of business owners worry of appearing "too over-salesy" when they are in crisis. Remember that your network can help when you are running your company and will seek out the companies they know as well for ideas and support.

Use empathy when you communicate with your customers . You should be aware of the possibility that we're all connected to our fellow human beings. Let your customers know you're thinking of them and are concerned for their security. If they have specific fears regarding the product or service you offer, for instance, the safety getting delivery, or whether they'll have access to crucial health treatments later on, let them know that you're aware of their worries, the safety of your customers is your top priority, and you've got solutions to fulfill their demands.

There's no need to know everything you'll need before getting in touch or contacting us. Things are changing constantly (sometimes daily!) and everyone is trying to find out the answer all at once. Keep it simple and clear about the latest developments. If you're trying to figure out some details, let them know that you're working to resolve the problem and will send more information when you've the information.

Offerings that assist

You should think about the things you can give your clients to aid them through this difficult time, and highlight those options on your website and in your messages. store.

You could think about proposing an offer

  • Delivery of your porch to your local customers. Also, it provides clear instructions about what you're doing to cleanse the packaging and protect the health of your employees.
  • Delivery is free or reduced for customers from out of town who are unable to access stores within their area.
  • Special deals and discounts are offered to those who are loyal and have financial issues.
  • Value added per purchase for examples, for example, bonus checklists, individual consultations, or video-based training
  • Certificates of appreciation for customers that are willing to assist you in bridging the gap in.

And of course, be sure that the new services you offer respect social distancing requirements. Nearly any company can offer an online or remote service; this is the ideal moment to start expanding into sales online and online classes, website membershipsor remote appointments. Make sure that your customers have their security at all times by offering as much as you are able online.

Contact us

There's so much information to communicate to your customers and there are a variety of methods to go about it. It's worth putting together a communications checklist.

Make sure you update your basic business information

  • Be sure that your website has the latest times and opening hours. Let customers know if you're taking orders via phone or video consultations or are considered as a significant business. It's important to maintain each of your Google My Business and Bing Business listing in the same manner.
  • Include any contact information that has been updated on your website, which includes particular email addresses as along with phone numbers to provide assistance and help.
  • Consider adding an alert message on your homepage that explains the ways your company is keeping employees and its products secure as well as any limitations on purchases that may be that apply in addition to modifications to the guidelines for shopping or shipping.
delivery page from the Forest Whole Foods website with updated terms and conditions
Forest Whole Foods is updating their website to ensure deliveries that comply with COVID-19 policy

Make sure your storefront is updated

  • Incorporate any new package or services to your products listing.
  • Change shipping classes and rates.
  • Make sure your email notifications ensure that your automated emails are up to date. Change notifications for clients to reflect potential delays in delivery times. Also, mention any changes to procedures for the delivery process, refund policy or cancellation policy.
  • Offer discounts to customers if you're offering discounts to customers returning.

Leverage your client email list

  • Contact your current and future customers , letting them know you're considering their requirements and taking precautions to protect the interests of your clients.
  • Make announcements about new offerings, new products, special offers, and procedure modifications directly to your customers.
  • It is essential to communicate clearly the date of delivery so that you can avoid requests for refunds and chargebacks due to late delivery.
  • Inform your clients when the conditions of your business change.
Adventure Parc Snowdonia Facebook page with a temporary closure announcement
Adventure Parc Snowdonia shared information about their temporary closure via social media

Maintain your social media accounts up to the

  • Utilize social media platforms to communicate all the most current announcements regarding official policies in addition to announcements relevant to both your company and your community.
  • The open Q&A session is available through social media channels in order to ensure that clients are secure and assist them in getting the answers they want.
  • Make sure to promote any offer you've developed that are helpful during these difficult times for people who are facing financial instability or limited mobility.
  • Advertise online classes or virtual event.

Blog entries could be added to provide more information on larger problems.

  • Use blog posts to talk in detail about the issues which affect your clients. Consider topics such as the latest delivery methods for your products, the safety of employees and how to show appreciation for staff, security procedures, or suggestions of how to use your products to provide entertainment.
  • The hyperlink connects to your profiles on social media , and also in newsletters, too.

Make sure that your customers would like to speak with your company for direction and assurance. Repeat business from them will aid you in surviving this crisis and the expansion of your business into the online world could benefit the clients. Together, we can all assist each other in navigating through this crisis.

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