At 12 noon today, on 12 August 2020, those of us in Auckland will move into Level 3 while the rest of the country moves back into Level 2 for the next 3 days.
With the recent discovery of 4 new cases of community transmission in Auckland, this seems to be the most sensible move to stay one step ahead of this virus and gain more information about the situation.
But what does this mean for those of us in business?
The first lockdown in late March brought with it a whole range of challenges. Businesses laid off their workers, cafes closed their doors and many tried to move their operations online.
As will all things, some businesses failed, while others survived. Some even managed to thrive.
We are a lucky people, us Kiwis – living in relative comfort on the edge of the world, having an enviable initial response to the virus and being able to live life (mostly) normally for the past 2 months or so. However, as evidenced by these new cases, we still have to remain vigilant to protect this level of normalcy we have, even if that means, somewhat ironically, we need to sacrifice that normalcy for a period of time.
So for those of us in business – we do what we always do;
We adapt
We find new opportunities
We innovate
I do strongly believe that in times of crisis, new opportunities emerge. It is up to us as business owners to seize those opportunities and make the most of them. I know that many business owners dread a return to level 4 – so let’s do all we can as businesses to play by the guidelines and still run our business at the same time.
At the same time, be prepared to find ways to continue operating if we were to move into higher levels of lockdown.
Some ideas include (if you haven’t done so already):
- Moving your operations online
- Register as an essential service provider (if applicable)
- Offer takeaway services
- Having a working online shopping portal
Ensure you clearly communicate your plans to your customers, suppliers, employees and other stakeholders in your business. Get them onboard with what you plan to do and keep them in the loop! Also, if you haven’t got a business continuity plan in place, now is a good time to start thinking about it. I can help you out with this (you may also be eligible for funding) just email me at sam@samharith.com for more info.
Also, remember that government assistance is still available in the form of the wage subsidy extension (applications close 1 September 2020) and the Small Business Cashflow Loan (applications close 31 December 2020).
I have full faith in our ability to survive and innovate new ways of doing business. We have that No. 8 Wire mentality and we will make the best of things, with the tools at our disposal.
We’ve got this NZ.
Practice Social Distancing; Wash your hands; Wear a mask (when out and about) and of course,
Stay positive!