Keeping the Momentum
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought a whole new meaning to the phrase ‘change is only constant’. Living and working in these times of radical uncertainty where the impacts of COVID are still rampant across the globe including supply chain issues, talent shortages, and just the sheer lack of resources, means that we need to prepare for the post-pandemic hangover to take some time to rectify.
Businesses that have been able to continue to provide for their clients and customers are the ones that are going to thrive, however, those that have faced supply chain, talent, and resource shortages have been left in a state of stagnation. So, how do you keep the momentum going when your path is filled with obstacles? Here are my thoughts:
Digitisation
In a resource strapped economy, you should explore how digitisation can help reduce the burden. By harmonising your business processes with automation, you can reduce the amount of repetitive manual tasks in order to create optimised, expedient and less erroneous workflows.
Automation software is also an excellent tool for streamlining your systems so they integrate with one another and you can avoid double-handling of work. Plus, you can explore how you can make your business data work for you and analyse the proportion of high value vs ‘admin’ tasks being completed on the day to day. Essentially, see how implementing technology solutions could make your business more efficient.
Look Within
Given the ongoing border restrictions and people being unwilling to look for new jobs in the existing climate, you may also be bearing the brunt of the current talent shortage. If this is the case, perhaps you could consider looking to people within your company who have deep knowledge of how your business operates that could re-focus their energy into other areas.
At BBT, we’ve taken the talent shortage in stride by having a good hard look at how we are operating and made some changes around the focus of people’s roles and what responsibilities they have. This means that we can continue to power forward and direct our energy towards the things that add value.
Embrace Opportunities to Create Impact
Currently, there’s no shortage of problems that need solving which presents your business with the opportunity to think outside of the box when it comes to engaging your workforce to establish new business models and create impact. In the COVID era, there have been many examples or businesses diversifying from car manufacturers producing respirators to cosmetic giants and perfumeries producing hand sanitiser. Ultimately, it’s all a question of mindset.
Instead of simply using innovation as a response to internal challenges, think about whether your business is truly embracing the opportunity to transform.
Keep Building Your Brand
You’re probably already well aware that we live in a world where the customer is spoiled for choice. Therefore, the most valuable currency you have is your brand. Taking the time to understand your point of difference will truly be an asset to help you stay ahead of the game.
Think about it, why would someone wait for you or your product to be available when there are competitors out there who can deliver the same thing faster? Especially in these times, it’s vital to stay visible, continuing your marketing, and maintaining open and honest communication with your customers.
Steve Jobs once said, “Simple can be harder than complex”, and this is particularly true in these times. Keeping the momentum this year and beyond is crucial so explore methods that work for you and your business. Remember, you are the creator of your story, so write it well.