We’re still very much in the thick of the COVID-19 pandemic, but many businesses are starting to open back up to the public. Unfortunately, the long road we have ahead of us because of the coronavirus isn’t over, and that means for businesses too. Many consumers will still be weary about going out in public or having service professionals in their homes for fear of contracting or spreading the illness. Some consumers may have found another business in each industry that they are frequenting because the businesses they were used to were temporarily closed. Whatever the reason, most businesses will have to take necessary steps to creating customer loyalty upon reopening:

Offer a ‘Welcome Back’ Deal

Times are tough for businesses. Times are tough for consumers, too, and a welcome back deal would be the perfect solution for both. People aren’t looking to spend extra money right now on products and services, so they’re likely to choose a business that offers a deal. Even if you’re not in a position to offer a discount to customers, sending an email or text campaign with a warm welcome message would go a long way. Let your customers know that you have missed them and you hope they’re staying healthy and well and of course that you’re ready to help them out as soon as they’re ready.

Get Engaged on Social Media

Everyone is on social media- now more than ever. Now is the time to be engaging with your customers on social media. In 2020, there’s been an average increase of an hour a day spent on social media outlets. How can you engage through social media?

• Posting interesting content that is relevant to your business/industry.
• Posting questions that spark a conversation.
• Reply back to responses from your followers.
• Keep it light and friendly.

Communicate Regularly 

Engaging is the #1 key to success when it comes to creating customer loyalty. If your customers aren’t hearing from you, they will forget about you. Creating lasting relationships with your customers is the same as any other relationship- it requires work, connection and communication. Send out regular email marketing campaigns to your customers, with useful information that will be beneficial to them. Communicate with your customers through SMS text message campaigns that will provide them instant access to your business and remind them of how much they enjoyed working with you!

There are some very tough side effects of the pandemic that are really hitting businesses, especially small businesses. However, now that states are opening back up and consumers are going to be spending more, it’s the perfect opportunity to engage with your customers and make them loyal to your business. 

For more insights on marketing strategy that actually works for small business, connect with Jay Bean, Founder of FreshLime and Small Business Marketing Expert on LinkedIn and Twitter. If any of these tips have helped you or if you have anything to add, please comment below. We’d love to hear from you!