If you’re like most people, you’re probably experiencing some form of “COVID fatigue” and wishing the world would just “get back to normal”. But as we’ve all slowly been discovering throughout 2020, the reality is – even once we get a vaccine(!) – things will never be the same as they once were. If we want to succeed throughout the rest of the 2020’s, we must adjust to a new normal.
For businesses in particular, this means embracing the internet and making the most of online sales, because studies suggest digital shopping is here to stay.
Whether your business is a digital native or started out primarily as a brick and mortar, it will be essential to stand out online among a growing cohort of savvy competitors. Here’s are some strategies your business could pursue in order to make sure you emerge from this global crisis stronger than ever:
1. Amplify Your Online Presence
With the virus still among us, people are continuing to spend much of their time at home and online. A report from Forbes shows that global online content consumption doubled in 2020.
Thus, it is no longer sufficient to just have an online presence – for your business to be competitive you need to prioritize and amplify your brand positioning online.
For example, you’ll want to make sure your SEO is on-point so that you have an edge over competitors. How high in the listings does your business appear on Google Search?
2. Stay Social 
Everyone may be social distancing when they see each other in person, so now more than ever it matters to stay socially close online.
Don’t forget that your social media accounts are one of your most important assets, not only for finding new customers but for continuing to build loyalty and engagement with your current audience.
While organic posting remains a useful tool, now may be the time to consider adding paid social media advertising to your strategy to capitalize on all the active users. Statistics suggest that nearly 4 billion people use social media every day spending over two hours on social sites.
3. Lean on Your Existing Network
While there’s understandably a drive to find and attract new customers, especially with the new online surge, don’t forget about your existing network.
Faced with the confusion of sweeping new uncertainties, many people are finding solace and comfort in doubling down on familiar ties – and this includes existing relationships with brands.
Email marketing remains one of the most worthwhile marketing strategies, with recent statistics showing an amazing 3800% ROI. Even in B2B sales, over 30% of marketers say that email newsletters are the most effective way to nurture leads.
4. Try Investing in Paid Advertising 
Is your business running online ads? It may be counterintuitive, but if another COVID wave hits, it might be the best time to invest.
Every time there’s a new crisis, it’s a natural instinct for businesses to want to immediately cut costs. However, when this happens, the price of ads can drop significantly since there are fewer bidders. In April 2020, it was reported that costs-per-click (CPC) on Google decreased and provided advertisers with a better return on their Search marketing investments.
Is your business prepared?
5. Give Back to Your Community
If your business is struggling, you might not be feeling too generous. However, generosity could be your best long-term strategy.
Can your business offer special discounts to customers to help them out during these trying times? Can you donate time, resources, or efforts to those in your community who have been most impacted by this crisis?
A little thoughtfulness when people need it most can go a long way to building appreciation, trust, and loyalty.
Are you ready to try something new to make the most of your digital marketing efforts during the pandemic? Admittedly, it’s difficult to have to adjust to this new normal – but our team here at JXT Group can help with the support and expert insight you need in this moment. We know what’s working now, and can help you figure out a customized solution for your business to adapt to the latest trends.
Just give us a call at 718-690-7302 or fill out our online contact form to get a conversation started.
