Communicating Your Reopening Plans to Customers

As US Businesses Plan to Re-Open…

“Customer communication is critical to your business during these uncertain times. Your success in a post-pandemic world depends on making consumers feel comfortable returning to your place of business. Consumer’s are looking for businesses that make them feel safe and secure. Businesses must address their fears and uncertainty as customer’s return.”

We understand that many of us are facing a harsh reality.

 This Coronavirus has breathlessly changed our business dynamic. It’s also changed the way we communicate, not only the way we do business, but also the way we communicate to our customers. There is a delicate balance between keeping your brand present in the minds of consumers, and trying to prepare for an eventual return to normalcy.

Although I believe this Coronavirus is not something that is going to be over soon. I do believe that we will find better and more convenient ways of doing business.

As businesses across the country prepare to reopen, how to effectively communicate  plans to reopen is definitely on the minds of business owners everywhere. Not only do you need to update customers on changed hours and product/service availability, but also to explain any new health and safety measures you plan to adhere to.

Customer communication is critical to your business during these uncertain times. Your success in a post-pandemic world depends on making consumers feel comfortable returning to your place of business. Consumer’s are looking for businesses that make them feel safe and secure. Businesses must address their fears and uncertainty as customers return.

Below are Three Marketing Strategies You Can Use For Reopening Your Business… (When the times comes) and how to communicate that you are ready to serve them again.

As you’re getting ready to welcome your customers back, consider these marketing strategies for reopening.

1. Celebrate

Look at it as your company’s new re-opening and celebrate. It’s a way to come together and celebrate the community. Maybe you could host a small event, get some press. Consider showing off a new product or service; it doesn’t have to be nothing huge, just a little celebration and a chance to connect and bring some smiles to people’s faces.

2. Your Marketing Still Matters…  Marketing Messages Should Shift, Not Shut Off

It’s understandable with limited resources available that if you can’t execute an entirely new campaign, it’s important to understand if you did suspend your advertising that you pick up right where you left off.  People are actively listening and seeking information right now. The important thing to remember is that transparency is key. If you go silent, they’re left to draw their own conclusions which most of the time leads to angry customers.

3. Now More Than Ever Always Show Safety First

Now more than ever, health and safety are at the top of everyone’s minds. Your customers are a little on edge as they return to your place of business. It’s going to be critical to include all safety and precautions into your messaging. Advertise all the steps your organization is taking to keep its staff and customers safe. Exceed guidelines where possible. If you can show examples of the safety measures you’re taking, even better. Keep in mind, the mindset of your customer is not the same as before. Consumer’s will be watching to see if businesses are adhering to new safety regulations or not. By being proactive and transparent, you can avoid some of the negative social shaming online. (Which will happen you can count on it.)

Because of this, a clear and direct statement from leadership is essential. People will be visiting your website expecting real-time updates, making it the perfect place to host  statements and other vital information.

Other methods and ideas of communication…

Your Company’s Website. Update your home page about your reopening plans. Your customer’s are first going to look on your website for any new information regarding their need’s and the procedure of your business. This may include Frequently Asked Questions page on your website.

Social Media. Create a series of posts announcing your re-opening and frequent updates about operations. This will show you are open for business and actively addressing their needs.

Craft an Email Newsletter.  Email blitz your entire subscriber base and get the information they need directly into their inbox.

Create a Text message/SMS. If your business uses SMS marketing, stay in touch with your customers via text message to let them know about your reopening plans.

Customer Service. Make sure everyone on staff knows how to properly address customer concerns. These are very touchy times, treat your customer’s questions and concerns with the utmost care.

As America’s businesses look to reopen safely and keep employees and customers healthy and informed, employers are facing countless new questions and unprecedented new challenges.

Questions about your business and your state’s protocol? 

https://www.uschamber.com/reopening-business