While there has been an awful lot of sadness and sobering events that have taken place thanks to the COVID-19 pandemic, there have also been plenty of stories of hope and pride as people and businesses all step up and try to do their part to help in the fight. Most people aren’t involved in vaccine research themselves, but that doesn’t mean they can’t have an impact on the virus and its course.
In fact, all you have to do is look at the way so many businesses are truly stepping up, bringing forth innovative ideas, processes, and products, and it’s clear to see that people are anxious to do what they can.
If you own a small business yourself and you’re looking for ways to have a positive impact during the COVID-19 pandemic, the good news is that there are lots of things you can do, and no matter which direction you go in, any help is beneficial. So, here’s just a small look at some of the things your company can be doing.
Keep Your Employees Safe and Healthy
The first priority for any small business owner is to look after their own employees. This means creating a work environment that is safe and healthy for them to be in. This is frankly the bare minimum any company should be doing right now, as this ensures you’re not adding to the problem and creating the kind of environment that is ideal for an outbreak to happen.
So, what is required to keep employees safe? Things such as physical distancing, staggered start and end times, staggered breaks, eliminating in-person meetings, providing masks where necessary, providing hand sanitizer for all, encouraging employees to wash hands often through the day, and perhaps even allowing employees to work remotely, at least part of the time.
Product Development and Manufacturing – Providing Key Essentials During the Pandemic
Another fabulous way your small business can make a serious impact during the pandemic is to step up in terms of product development and manufacturing. There have been all kinds of companies that have halted their typical production, changed direction completely, and started to manufacture items that are in need right now – in particular PPE, ventilators, hospital beds, and other such medical equipment.
And it’s more than just producing higher quantities of those items; there are also those companies that are going the extra mile and looking for ways they can innovate and provide key items and equipment that will aid in the fight against COVID-19. That Made in America label has never been more needed, appreciated, and useful.
Support Local Fundraising Events Tied to COVID-19
You can also help your local community by supporting fundraisers, charity drives, food drives, PPE drives, and other such initiatives that are looking after and giving back to the community. Not only will you be helping to ensure the community in which your employees and customers stay safe, healthy, and has what it needs, you will be creating a very positive brand image.
People want to work for and do businesses with companies that care. Companies that take an active approach to bettering their community tend to be much more buzz-worthy. So, while you’re busy doing good in the community, you will also be helping to build your customer base.
As a Small Business Owner, You Have Lots of Power
At the end of the day, while you may only own a small-sized business, the fact is that you have lots of power, and you can really make an impact on your own company environment as well as the local community.
