The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic made it clear to businesses that they had to do one thing and do it fast: adapt. From overhauling business operations and procedures to going entirely online, companies had to make significant adjustments to survive in the new and unexpected market space.
Although these changes may have been rough, they ultimately led businesses to improve themselves further. From becoming more efficient and optimising workflows to understanding their customers and their needs better, none can say that the pandemic did not have an impact, be it in a positive way or otherwise.
Since there are many lessons that have sprung up from the recent pandemic, here’s a short list of the few important ones to keep in mind for the future.
React and adapt to the situation
In order to avoid losing out on business, companies must react fast and adapt even more quickly. If businesses have prepared contingency plans long before, this can be more easily achieved. Otherwise, companies need to be quick to assess several key factors, such as the new market environment and their strengths and weaknesses. Afterwards, employ the solutions that will ensure that revenues won’t plummet or, at the very least, mitigate possible losses.
Due to the pandemic, businesses have learned to expect the unexpected. More are learning the importance of creating a solid crisis response plan. Additionally, the experience gained will surely lend itself to another potential crisis in the future, allowing companies to respond fast and be flexible even if things won’t go exactly as planned.
Concentrate on top-level priorities
During the pandemic crisis, there is no doubt that the safety of the business’ employees and clients takes top priority. One of the ways is to follow closely to health and sanitation guidelines as informed by the authorities, so the business can continue with on-site operations.
There is also the matter of planning a work-from-home arrangement. When the Circuit Breaker was in effect in 2020, many deskbound workers had to adapt and learn how they can be productive at home while carving a new area of their personal space to focus on work. Business leaders also had to ensure communication remains in place so everyone can collaborate for the success of their projects.
Don’t neglect the business’ digital transformation
Even without the occurrence of a crisis, having little to zero online presence for your business can impact its survival and growth. In today’s day and age, people now instinctively turn to the Internet to search for goods and services that can solve a problem they have.
By investing in a solid digital presence for the business, not only are businesses able to reach a larger audience, but it also helps build and cultivate brand awareness to generate leads and sales.
Brainstorm on innovative ideas and solutions
The pandemic has also introduced a shift in the way people shop and spend their money. Their needs changed, and some companies face incredible losses while some are soaring through their profits. For instance, consumer demand for masks surged during the early days of the crisis. Thus, some fashion companies saw this opportunity to produce stylish and functional masks for sale.
As such, it became even more important to perform market research and define their target audience to see how the company’s products and services can fit the current needs of consumers. The lesson is: businesses must be ready to take this challenge head-on, reinvent themselves and remain relevant to their audiences in any circumstances.
As a business owner, focusing on these priorities to steer your company back on track will no doubt require all of your time and attention. To help you save time and resources, outsource some of your essential business needs to the best audit firm around. With Ackenting Group’s range of corporate services, our accounting professionals have the experience and expertise to handle your business financials and provide sound advice for your decision-making. From bookkeeping to tax accounting services in Singapore, we provide essential solutions that help businesses keep going, even through tough times.
If you require any assistance on accounting services, feel free to drop us an email at johnwoo@ag-singapore.com or contact us at +65-66358767. At Ackenting Group, we offer a complimentary 30 minutes online consultation for us to better understand your business requirements.
