Lockdown is easing and for many businesses, it’s time to reopen. But the current pandemic and lockdown restrictions still mean many businesses are entering a period of uncertainty. Many business owners are needing to stop and reflect on how their business has been affected by it all. Are they looking at a growth or restart phase in their business? For some, it’s a question of how they can adapt to accommodate the increased workload, whilst others are even wondering if they have a business anymore.
It’s certainly a difficult time for many businesses, on and offline.
No matter what type of business you own or whether you’re on or offline, you need to reassess your options. And that means taking a step back to understand where you’re at and where you’re headed.
Take a step back and assess your situation
Start by giving yourself a little time to assess your situation. Take a step back and compile all the facts. How has your business been running during lockdown? Maybe you’ve been implementing new ways of working or new technology – how effective has that been? If your business has been closed during lockdown, do you have all the ability to implement the guidelines needed, to reopen? How about your financial situation – do you have the funds to cover you during this uncertain time?
Is it time for your business to grow?
Is your business primed for the growth you may want? Do you have the right systems and processes in place, to support an increase? Maybe you need to set up your SOP (Standard Operating Procedures) manual so you can have the proper workflows and procedures in place? How about your team – do you have enough capacity to take on extra work? Or are you needing to turn to an outsourcer or hire a Virtual Assistant?
Are you ready to restart?
If your business has been closed for a while, it can be difficult to get restarted. It’s not just about having the right tools and equipment in place; you have to be ready too. Are you ready to restart? Lockdown has been difficult on so many business owners for various reasons, and if it’s taken its toll on you, that’s understandable. So, what do you need, to help you restart? Do you need to work on your mindset or motivation? Maybe you need someone to help you manage the entire project, so you can focus on the things that you’re great at?
Do you need to pivot?
When it comes to building a business, growth or restart are the only two options. There is a third one – and that’s to pivot. Is what you were doing still working for you or is it time to take a new course of direction? This often happens when you’re offering something that just isn’t needed or wanted, during a period of uncertainty. If people are tightening their belts, they may see your current service as a luxury they don’t need. Can you pivot? Is there another way to package what you do, to make it more affordable – or do you need to completely change your offerings?
What do you need right now?
No matter what is going on with your business, you are an essential part of it. So what do you need right now? It’s ok if you need to just take the time to reassess your needs. Maybe you need a little time to go through your options and to reassess how you feel about your business. Are you holding yourself accountable to your goals and are you on track with your business goals?
But this isn’t just about your business. Maybe lockdown and the current pandemic has made you take a step back and reassess your life and work balance. Do you still want what you previously planned for yourself? What changes do you want to make, to get a better work/life balance? Are you being honest with yourself over your needs, dreams and goals?
Lockdown is easing and for many businesses, it’s time to reopen. But the world has changed as a result of everything that’s gone on. For many businesses, that’s meant embracing new ways of working and stepping up to ensure your business now faces a period of growth. Whilst for others, a total restart phase has now begun.
If you’re not yet sure whether your business is at the growth or restart phase, that’s ok. There has been a lot going on and a lot to digest! So, take the time you need to reassess. Use the above advice, to decide how you move forward from here. And be honest about what’s the best solution for you, now things are finally easing in the world.
If you decide you need to free up your time a little more or need an extra pair of hands in your business, get in touch. Here at Virtual Hand, we are a team of action-takers supporting business owners to grow their business and do the things they love. We’d love to talk and see how we can help you, whether you’re at the growth, restart or pivot stage of your business.
