A few months ago, none of us had heard of COVID-19, but it was coming, and it would change everything—including our economic climate. Small businesses have some major adjusting to do in response, especially if they want to thrive. We’ve pieced together some resources to guide you in the right direction.

Is Your Safety Net Intact?

Many small businesses were hit hard when restrictions began. If you have blown through most or all your financial reserves, ensure your security before doing anything else.

• If you qualify, take advantage of the CARES Act.
• Explore grants being made available through various sources.
• Reduce overhead expenses wherever you can.
• Save on expenses by running your business from home.

Rethink Strategies

You can only tighten your belt so far. And while you might find a few helping hands up, it’s still up to you to generate income. With the altered world we now live in, rethinking outreach strategies is a must.

• Remain flexible in how you move forward.
• Commerce is transitioning to the web, so a strong digital presence is a must.
• If you’re new to e-commerce, get familiar with the ins and outs.
• You can hire SharePoint developer freelancers to automate workflow processes across your business.

Open for Business

Brick-and-mortar establishments have a lot to think about as the country gets comfortable with the new normal.

• The CDC has clear guidelines regarding cleaning and disinfecting your establishment.
• OSHA provides guidance for employers regarding employee safety.
• Make a plan for how you will function on a daily basis.
• Avoid misjudgements relating to your reopening, like taking temperatures and not communicating guidelines to staff.

Surviving the fallout of the pandemic won’t necessarily be easy, but it can be done. Secure your finances first, address your outreach, and frame appropriate policies as you open your doors. With solid practices, your business can thrive in this new environment.