Right now, small businesses are being hit from all sides. From temporarily closing their shops, pivoting their whole business structures, and trying to remain relevant all during a time of unreal crisis, it is undoubtedly overwhelming. This is uncharted territory, and many are unsure how to continue keeping their business afloat, while being sensitive to those who are hurting in their communities.

Here are just a few tips below to keep in mind no matter how small your business is:

• Cut down on paid ads and focus on getting results by using SEO techniques, creating simple videos, using stories more, and leaning heavily on analytics to get the best bang out of your organic posting. Paid ads can still have a great impact, but they must be properly set up and well-executed, especially if your budget is small. There are so many resources online. Use them NOW. 

• Yes, most of us need cash but don’t forget that bartering and negotiation is always an option. The worst thing someone can tell you is no.

• Review every dollar going out that isn't providing an ROI, cut back to the bare minimum, and eliminate anything extraneous. You’d be surprised at the small subscriptions or recurring charges you forget about or don’t even notice. 

• As hard as it will be, adjust your business model. Think creatively and investigate how to provide your product and turn it into a service. 

• Be resourceful! Whether it’s getting that online shop up, making it easier to navigate, reworking it, so it’s optimized for SEO, or focusing on a platform you’ve been too busy to give attention to, this is the time to do and learn these things yourself!

•  Use this time to connect with your customer base. They will be what gets you through this tough time. Develop stronger ties with them by communicating openly and honestly, the struggles, and the wins.

• Don’t be afraid to call out how the support you get is literally keeping the lights on. Personal investment cements loyalty.

• Profit Margins will be tighter than ever before. Analyze what brings in the most significant profit percentage and see if you can boost sales to those specific items. 

• Pay close attention to your copy. This is something you should always be doing, but while marketing during a crisis, it’s more important than ever to watch your tone. If you are problem aware, your copy should reflect that and how you can help solve an issue people are currently having.