UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced a series of drastic measures to combat the spread of the coronavirus that had infected over 29,000 people by 2nd April 2020. The measures consist of a three-week police-enforced lockdown that includes closure of all shops providing non-essential services. Only shops that sell essential household items – food and toiletries – and pharmacies remain open.
Even before these measures were announced, business owners had already suffered a significant decline in sales, supply chain disruptions, and employee incapacitation. Still, the decisive actions are necessary to combat the spread of this unprecedented pandemic, so that life can return to normal as soon as possible.
In the meantime, learn how you can use this forced break to improve your business prospects and work on the things you were too busy to do. If you lay the groundwork properly during this period, your business has the best chance of recovering once the lockdown is lifted.
Avail Yourself of Government Support
The financial effects of the closure of your business aren’t something to be ignored; the majority of small businesses can barely afford to remain closed for one week, let alone three weeks or more. Understanding this, the government has instituted measures to help all businesses survive the COVID-19 crisis.
Such grants and tax breaks can allow your business to stay afloat and pay your employees during this difficult season. Please go through the list to see how your business can benefit from government support.
Build Your Social Presence
Because most people will be working from home and movement for non-essential reasons is prohibited, you may not make any sales while the lockdown persists. This is the time, however, to increase your digital presence on sites like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and even Snapchat or TikTok, if your business model allows it.
During this season, increase your posting frequency so that you’re more visible on already cramped newsfeeds. Your customers are spending more time on social media, giving a ready audience for your content. You should take advantage of this attention to build brand awareness by:
- Sharing or reposting content specifically about the virus, and how people can stay