As the coronavirus continues to spread and wreak havoc on businesses in various industries the severe impact on their bottom-lines are being felt. Companies are losing profits, stores are shutting down and thousands of employees are forced to take unpaid leave. But for some industries this can be an opportunity to turn lemons into lemonade. For example, there is a silver-lining for E-commerce companies, which appear to benefit from the shift in consumer behaviour caused by the COVID-19 outbreak. When the first case of the outbreak appeared in China, it increased the demand for products and services sold through e-commerce as shoppers stuck at home bought more online. The outbreak has also triggered a spike in online sales of companies offering immune-boosting and hygiene products, such as hand-sanitizer, soap and masks etc. Covid-19 can actually be the catalyst for businesses to adapt in what is a potentially catastrophic economic environment and not only survive but thrive.
Revamping consumer experience online:
As consumers are increasingly wary of going outside and preferring to stay indoors, online shopping experiences need to become more engaging. E-commerce has been a growing business, but with the total market growing, the competition is becoming more fierce. However, a growing market is also a perfect moment to invest in new user interfaces, better navigation or online client-support.
Promoting e-business:
E-commerce is growing, but for each individual business to remain competitive external promotion is necessary. This is why it is important for brands to build their omni-channel capabilities during this time. As people spend more time at home, social media consumption has gone up — Facebook, Instagram and Twitter have provided a perfect way to intensify communication with customers. By regularly posting content and by encouraging customers to comment and share, companies can intensify their promotion efforts. Emails should not be forgotten — for existing customers regular emails and newsletters serve as reminders.
Online business is not only about retail:
In light of the current situation, companies are cancelling upcoming events, media appearances or holding off on product launches. And while it makes total sense not to over-invest when it comes to advertising and media right now, it is important to think of alternatives. Digital technologies are changing the way we communicate, live, and work, also creating new options for business communication. Thanks to technological advancement, events can be held online. It is a chance to re-focus on online services and explore the value of webinars, video conferences and virtual meetups.
Time to leverage on SEO/SEM:
It is no surprise that internet usage has been up ever since the coronavirus started. With people spending less time outside, online usage continues to grow in an upward trend. This is the perfect opportunity to create more engaging consumer communication by developing effective content. Be creative and try to address a need in a way no other company can by making your content unique, and then invest in optimising it. A leading position in search engine results will lead to a better marketing position.
Optimizing websites:
Website optimization improves the performance and return of your marketing investment. Whether your goal is to get more leads, sales, or reduce customer service phone calls, website optimization can be used to make your website more effective at meeting those goals. It is very important because optimization increases the quantity and quality of traffic to your website. A well-optimized site will provide your web visitors with a friendly and professional experience which will further enhance your credibility as a business.
If you want to be successful, you must continuously find creative ways to boost your business. Contact Us today for internet marketing services such as sales and marketing, SEO expertise and web branding solutions or online ticketing.