FINDING WAYS TO STAY IN CONTACT

The coronavirus is forcing many people into isolation which, unfortunately, causes a negative mindset. For many small business owners it feels like the whole world is at a standstill. We still have a chance to fight back and to reach out and touch people but not necessarily in person.

In keeping with this series on how to reach out through technology I am suggesting another outreach program.

The first step is to download a video conferencing program. I am currently using Zoom (has a free package). This package will allow you to meet with your clients, customers, etc., face to face. This program has many features like screen sharing which opens a wide variety of educational possibilities.

For those of you in the BizQuack 2020 Success program, reach out to your accountability partner and schedule a 10 minute session at least twice a week. Make it a specific day and time so that both of you will be able to set aside that time and you both have made a commitment.

From here, there are unlimited possibilities. Since it is possible and very easy to see and talk to a number of people, I suggest the following:

• Form small groups in your contacts; that will allow you to set up a meeting with all at the touch of a key.
• Set up a support group ( 5 to 7 members) which meets for 15 minutes every day to discuss what is happening and what positive actions can be taken in today’s environment.
• Set up several groups of customers to discuss how they are coping with the health crisis and to share ideas. You can create several groups of 5 to 7 members. This is your opportunity to show your leadership and your caring attitude.
• Put out an invitation to your target market to join a discussion group (5 to 7 members) where each of you share information. The frequency of meetings should be at least once a week with a duration of not more than 30 minutes. If you get a good response, you can form several groups or else enlarge the number of participants.
• You might even consider forming a “peer” group of people from your industry to meet weekly and discuss what is happening in your industry.

Our purpose these past few days is to help you stay connected with your clients and prospects and to help you enhance your reputation. All meetings should be focused on helping all the participants in the group and not to sell your products/services.

Humans need a community in order to survive and grow. I am asking you to use this time to reach out.