We are in the midst of a most unprecedented event. Right now, everything out there is about COVID-19. So how can you properly and sensitively market your brand at a time of such uncertainty? Small businesses need to make smart choices and consider a number of factors, all while being sensitive to the current social climate. In that regard, if you have any pre-scheduled marketing ads, please review them now and adjust or cancel as appropriate. Marketing like you did in a pre-COVID-19 digital world will be met with distaste and could damage your brand moving forward.
If you are open during these uncertain times, it is appropriate to let your customers know that you are there! Let them know what precautions are being taken, and if you have modified hours or services. Make sure to keep your customers in the loop; the public wants to support small business! Keeping your customers in the loop can not only help you in the short term, but also can create loyal long-term customers.
If you decide that now is a time for marketing silence, make sure that all marketing campaigns are paused or cancelled. Depending on your brand and industry, the landscape could be different for a while. Determine the criteria for the right time or climate for your brand to re-enter the market, as planning ahead will only benefit you.
If you would like to read more about this, we found this AdWeek article to have some great insight into brand marketing for larger organizations:
https://www.adweek.com/brand-marketing/how-to-survive-a-brand-quarantine-during-coronavirus/. As mentioned above, there are some interesting nuggets for small businesses in here too.
We hope you and your family stay safe!
