Photo by Bram Naus

Originally Posted On: https://growingforward.net/2020/04/01/using-your-downtime-wisely/

Whatever you do, there’s no denying that the world is vastly different than it was just a few short weeks ago. Much of the world is experiencing some form of lockdown, and many businesses have been forced to close their doors for the foreseeable future. Some are still going strong online, but even then, things are different.

Whether your company is still functioning normally, now operating online, or you’ve had to close down, for the time being, things will be different. And you are probably looking for ways to ensure the current health crisis doesn’t affect you too much in the long term.

While no one knows what the future may bring, now less than ever, there are some things that you can do while business might be quiet. To prepare for the next phase in the life of your business. Let’s take a look at some ideas.

Keep in Touch

It’s more important than ever that we keep in touch with our clients and customers, but also with our team members. Communication is all that we’ve got at the moment, and utilizing it with emails and social media messages is a great way to keep relationships going, personally, and professionally.

Check Your Equipment and Supplies

If you are still able to access your business, this can be a great time to check on your equipment and supply levels. Does any of your equipment need servicing or replacing? Are there any improvements that you would like to make? How are your supply levels? Do you hold too much stock?

Even if you can’t get into your workplace, think about upgrades like GPI fuel pumps, which could increase productivity and save time if your business uses vehicles.

Get on Top of Your Admin

Admin might be the bane of your life. You might let it pile up until you can no longer justify leaving it. Well, this is the time to clear your in-tray, sort your filing and hit the ever-elusive inbox zero. You could even set up some more efficient systems for the future.

Get Online

If your business is already online, you are hopefully using this time to update your website, expand your online store and build your brand. If you’re not already online, this is the perfect time to give your business an online presence. Get on social media, start selling on online marketplaces and launch an e-commerce store.

Plan for the Future

There’s never been a better time to plan for the future. We don’t know when this will end, or when life will return to normal, but, we do know that it will end. So, make sure you are ready for action as soon as it does. Plan products and services that you want to offer, marketing campaigns and even new training plans.

Take a Break

Yes, this is a great chance to build. But, that doesn’t mean that you can’t have a break, especially if you don’t feel your best. Give yourself a chance to get away from the business, and you may return feeling refreshed and filled with good ideas. There’s nothing wrong with a little lazy time.