The outbreak of the respiratory disease caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) now affects people in countries around the world. Companies of all sizes and industries such as tourism, manufacturing, sales and logistics, to name a few, are all feeling the impact. Digital marketing during COVID-19 now faces challenges as meetings and events are canceled, and campaigns and budgets are reassessed.
As businesses wonder what to do next, here is some information and resources for stakeholders as they address the issues at hand.
Understanding Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
COVID-19 usually causes mild disease such as fever and cough, but also can cause severe symptoms such as pneumonia and difficulty breathing. There is currently no vaccine to protect against COVID-19. The best way to prevent infection is to take everyday preventive actions, like avoiding close contact with people who are sick and washing your hands often. Someone who is actively sick with COVID-19 can spread the illness to others.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offer COVID-19 prevention and treatment information as well as continuing updates. Additionally, the CDC recommends people with symptoms be isolated either in the hospital or at home (depending on how sick they are) until they are better and no longer pose a risk of infecting others. Most people will recover on their own. There is no specific treatment for COVID-19 and there is no vaccine. People who become ill can seek medical care to help relieve symptoms.
How it affects digital marketing
Companies, just like individuals everywhere, are trying to figure out how to address day-to-day business needs during the rapidly changing environment in this age of COVID-19. Many operations have been disrupted and altered by public health best practices.
Because the situation is so fluid, T.E. Digital is taking a measured and responsible approach in order to best serve our clients during this unprecedented time. Here are some thoughts to take into consideration as you discuss your business.
- Develop an emergency plan. If you did not already have a contingency plan in place, take time to create one. Developing a road map to guide you is the best way to be successful with actions you take. Focus on employee safety, develop workplace and remote working strategies and have effective communication plan.
- Communicate with clients and customers. This is not a time to leave your following to face the unknown. Update the company website, send out emails, share information via social media. Be as clear as you can and be sure your customers know where they can access information to answer their questions.
- Remain as high touch as possible. As information changes, continue to keep customers abreast of how your business will meet the challenges. Digital marketing is about relationships. Continue to nurture them by being the dependable source of information your customers have come to expect.
Coping during crisis
The spread of coronavirus definitely spells uncertainty for businesses and could mean a major change overall. There is no doubt that brands are having to shift their approach, especially with regard to storytelling.
While budgets will have to be examined, there are some early indications that digital marketing could be very valuable as people stay home and spend more time online. Brands simply need to think proactively about how to approach the messages they want to deliver. Instead of adopting a “wait and see” attitude, it seems important to adapt appropriately as daily shifts occur. Providing a good experience and a quality message is more important than ever. Exerting your best practices and keeping to the brand’s overall mission will be critical as the landscape is ever changing.
Small Business Resources
We have compiled a list of resources for business owners impacted by the Coronavirus outbreak.
Business Resources
Here to help
The team at T.E. Digital is here for our current clients and for businesses who may now seek insight on how to reach out to customers via digital marketing.
Give us a call to discuss your goals and a strategy. Tell us about your concerns and let’s navigate this uncertain time together.
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