The Pandemic Pivot
You are not alone if you are continually wondering about what life will mean after this pandemic or when that will even be. Businesses are scrambling to stay afloat during it, and wondering what the cost will be going forward after it. You are not alone.
I have been wondering the same! And I feel fortunate to have the opportunity to work remotely, supporting individuals and businesses that set in motion some of the pivoting opportunities and necessary steps to not only stay afloat but to gauge a new level of work and learning going forward.
I tell my children that I am always here to help or support them. And when your adult child comes to you asking, “What do you think I should do” I see that is a sign of an open heart and mind. That is my favourite type of consulting and coaching in business also.
If you are reading this, you are open to ideas and searching for soaring in your business and life. So while I certainly don’t have all the answers to these unprecedented times, my biggest reflective “Ahas” in my own business experience has been these three realizations.
1. Focus on People vs Business.
I love that there is new thinking out there called P2P instead of B2B. Wait. Does that mean we will no longer be thinking about business-to-business collaborations? Not at all. But we have to make people the priority, and that is a value that I hope sticks for eternity, not just after the pandemic. When I first thought about starting my own business, I wondered if I was “ruthless” enough to be a business owner. After all, I am considered a compassionate and kind softie at heart, yet determined to the core and socially extroverted. I wasn’t sure those were the qualities needed. As it turns out, they have been my greatest strengths in my business success. The people are the soul of the business and the heart of our communities. One of my favourite parts of being an entrepreneur has been collaborating with other businesses. I love meeting new clients, learning about their passion and goals, and then finding creative solutions to support them. I also love endorsing other entrepreneurs who I can count on to have my back, build me up and work together on projects or contracts. It’s so rewarding. Going forward after COVID19, I want to go deeper into the people behind my business success, listen more effectively and curate relationships built on integrity, trust and compassion.
2. Focusing on people does not mean your business will be compromised.
You can do both well. Keeping you, your clients and your employees safe must be your top priority going forward. But this doesn’t mean your business has to suffer. Business owners are thinking creatively about how to stay productive and afloat during the pandemic, and that should continue. Your adjustment and critical thinking as a leader or entrepreneur are not over. Finding ways to heighten your business offerings in diverse ways, either digitally, through eCommerce, remotely or in a uniquely planned space, will be the key to your ongoing success post-pandemic. And if you are feeling it is impossible, find out what others in your industry are doing. You have the opportunity to apply the P2P principles in #1, and still, be a successful business owner. Being authentic, vulnerable and caring to your clients and employees more transparently will actually serve your business well.
3. Kindness is the ultimate Pandemic Pivot out there.
I want to live in a world that is safe and kind. No one should feel shamed or pressured for figuring out how to move forward. Be kind to each other. Everyone has a story and has been affected differently, and every business navigates these times the best they can. Avoid comparisons and respect different viewpoints and feelings. Be Kind as we all go about figuring out the pivot as it applies to us in life, our communities, and our businesses.
Love your view,