The COVID-19 pandemic spared no industry, spreading its claws from establishment to establishment, tearing businesses apart. Industries struggle to keep their operations afloat, with many turning to the world of remote work to keep up. Unfortunately, for many business verticals, such a solution is almost impossible.
Salon parlors and barbershops, for instance, have no other alternatives but to close down. Gyms and studios also see no customers, as with brick and mortar retail stores. With social distancing and quarantine lockdowns in place, the fear of contracting the virus prevails in the mind of consumers.
Luckily, there are other ways to keep your business alive. The virtual world, for instance, has become a go-to escape for many individuals. People are online now more than ever, so it’s best to incorporate your business into the messages they consume. Here’s how:
1 - For salon parlors and barbershops
Salon and barbershops are necessities. People need it to keep their appearances in check, especially when it comes to untamable hair. Due to risk of transmission, however, salons and barbershops from all across the country have been forced to close down or reduce business, which has been detrimental to sales:
The solutions
If you’re a salon or barbershop owner, you’re in good hands. The best news is that your industry is a necessity. The grooming industry will likely keep growing, and especially now that people are stuck in lockdowns, their desire for your services are as strong as ever.
To ensure that you make it through COVID-19, however, make use of SEO. Perform a
website audit
to determine how much traffic you’re receiving. This can also help you determine what needs to be changed, especially when it comes to content. Ensure that your website is fully functional, easy to navigate, and completely engaging. Your social media platforms need to be present, as with your booking appointments.
2 - For gyms and dance studios
Due to its nature of the business, gyms and dance studios were some of the first businesses to close down. The high-touch surfaces, shared spaces, and equipment used pose potential for the coronavirus to thrive and spread. As the country slowly lifts quarantine and lockdowns, gyms and dance studios now scramble to get back in business. With social distancing to worry about, however, planning can be incredibly difficult.
The solutions
Although it may seem like not much can be done, ensuring that your SEO strategies are in place can help you get through the ordeal. Make sure you create a Google My Business listing, as this lets people know that your business is still up and running. Include your hours of operations and COVID-19 efforts, which is essential for reopening your business.
If possible, keep your brand alive by offering classes online. People stuck at home crave exercise, so make sure to share what you know best—meal plans, workout videos, and other health guides.
3 - For brick and mortar retail shops
Brick and mortar shops, especially boutiques, have also been the receiving end of the COVID-19 repercussions. With consumer behavior patterns switching from wants to necessity, retail shops struggle to keep up with sales.
The solutions
Social media is the name of the game. Let people know that you’re still up and running, doing everything you can to survive the COVID-19 upheaval. While focusing on social media is necessary, make sure to leverage your efforts by tapping into influencers.
Reach out to influencers for strategic partnerships. Send them products to try out and feature, and then create content based on their experiences for your website—make sure that they’re imbued with relevant data and keywords.
Boost Your Business With the Best
In such unprecedented times, every little move and choice can make or break your business. As industries from all over the world struggle, make sure that your small business thrives through SEO strategies.