Running My Business During A Pandemic
It’s been almost one year since the pandemic hit North America and the lockdown and restrictions began. This week I’ve been reflecting on the past year and the changes I’ve made in my business - some by force and some by choice.
Let’s be honest, when the lockdown started we were all in a frenzy. Markets canceled, weddings canceled, shops closing their doors! But in the end, I’ve made the most of the situation and it's made me become a better business owner.
A word that started bouncing around in the first few months was PIVOT. All the plans that I made for my business had to change because the world around us was changing. One of the main changes I had to make in my business was dealing with weddings. 2020 brought canceled/postponed weddings with guest numbers drastically changing; it was no longer a profitable business for me.
With everyone staying “inside” and in their bubbles, I noticed people were doing two things:
Celebrating EVERYTHING and
Supporting Local Businesses
This meant I focused my niche and became dedicated to serving my local community and making connections (virtual of course!).
Here’s a short list of ways I kept it together during these unprecedented times (I know, I’m sick of that word too).
Community - At the beginning of the year I joined an accountability group for like-minded businesswomen. It was a place where we could share ideas, get feedback, and a safe space, especially during this time. When COVID hit we all freaked out together, and we also got it together as well!
Upgraded My Tech - When the lockdown happened, I was not able to provide any laser cut services/items because I didn’t own a machine! Ownership is EVERYTHING. With lockdown dates extending I invested in my own laser cutting machine. Now I have the ability to design and cut items whenever and turnaround times are much faster!
SELL, SELL, SELL - Before the pandemic, I think I played it safe. I sold my products on my own website and Etsy. When the “CHA-CHING” sound on my phone started slowing down I had to think outside of the box. I started hosting Instagram story sales, paid raffles, Facebook marketplace listings… you name it, i tried it. And most of the time, it worked!
The pandemic brought out the entrepreneurial spirit in me. Doing the things above kept me going and motivated me to become a better business owner. AND YES I will definitely continue doing all of these things in 2021.
xo
