As businesses begin to reopen across the country, one thing seems clear in this time of uncertainty: Life as we know it will be different after the COVID-19 pandemic.
But uncertainty can often lead to fear, which is why, now – more than ever – it is important to reach out to your customers to put their minds at ease. How can you do that? One easy way is to utilize marketing and social media to get your message out to your community.
Consulting firm On Your Mark Transportation’s President and CEO Mark Szyperski says he often has clients argue that when times are tough, there isn’t a budget for marketing. But neglecting that part of your business can often lead to more trouble, he explains.
“Now is the time to reach out to your customers and let them know who you are, what you do, and what you are doing to get through these times,” he says.
And while business owners may worry about the cost of a large marketing campaign, Szyperski says good marketing doesn’t have to mean spending a fortune.
Here are some simple ways to reach out to your customers:
1. Be an expert in your community
Consider sending press releases to your community newspapers or transportation publications to share your expertise and your business.
Part of being an expert in your community means lending a hand where you can.
Randy Cupp, Vice President of Blue Lakes Charters and Tours in Michigan says they recently saw an opportunity to help their community, while simultaneously increase their reach.
When two connected dams in Michigan breached, many people were left in dire need, so the company partnered with several local businesses on a Fill the Bus campaign. In total, they raised more than $15,000 in monetary donations and countless items to help the flooding victims.
2. Make new connections
Join your chamber of commerce to expand your reach.
Just outside of Nashville, Gallatin Chamber of Commerce CEO Kim Baker says she understands many businesses are struggling.
“The times we are experiencing have caused many to cut costs in different areas; however, your chamber membership is something you should invest even more in if finances allow,” she says.
“Your local chamber is always a great place to start when getting connected in a community; or, in today’s times, reconnected and reopened.”
3. Utilize free marketing
If you don’t have a blog on your website, consider starting one. Post on social media as often as possible. And send regular newsletters to your customers and contacts with important information and updates.
4. Enlist help
If all of these marketing ideas seem overwhelming, consider hiring a consultant like On Your Mark Transportation to help you.
Don’t let the stress of the current situation prevent you from growing your business. Now is the time to reach out to your customers – and your community – and show them we are all in this together.
On Your Mark Transportation LLC is a consulting firm to the ground passenger transportation industry.
This article was written by Amy Nixon, who writes press releases and blog content for their clients. With experience in transit, school bus, luxury transportation and motorcoaches, OYMT can bring a full range of extra services to an organization. Contact them at OnYourMarkTransportation.com or 615.669.0107.
