insight : roger magalhaes
How to Benefit from the Pandemic
The forced slowdown is hard, but you can use this time to make your business stronger BY ROGER MAGALHAES
T
he pandemic triggered by the coronavirus is not news anymore. Everyone around the globe is being affected by it to a certain degree. However, this crisis had a side effect that not many were expecting: a crippled economy. As businesses were forced to close, many owners were not prepared financially (or emotionally) for the sudden loss of income. What can we do now, while we still have some free time on our hands, to get our companies ready to gain market share once the economy returns? Below, I share five suggestions to help you prepare your business to be stronger (and more profitable).
Create a Regular Schedule and Stick to It
If you have difficulty maintaining self-discipline, staying home without defined goals can be challenging. The TV, the fridge or even frequent walks around the neighborhood can cost you hours that could be directed toward improving your business. I created a colorcoded schedule for myself during the lockdown. I even included time for naps and TV.
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Working from home does not need to be as formal or strict as working at your shop or showroom, but following a detailed plan will make you more productive. Once you break your day down into small tasks, it will be easier to accomplish results. As a bonus, it will boost your self-esteem too.
Organize, Clean Up and Learn
Until recently, I was complaining that I had no time to keep up with all my work and I was running behind on everything. Guess what? Now, I have time to fix that and catch up. You should do the same. Utilize the current downtime to clean up your shop, your working van, your showroom and your office. Get rid of extra parts, extra catalogs and tools or materials that are taking up extra space. Make an assessment about your current processes and the efficiency of them. Should you keep them or replace them with something better? Need new displays for your showroom? Take the time to sort out all the parts and materials that are piling up in the corner of your shop. Can you easily search and locate tools in the van? Do
