Three Simple Tips to Protect Small Businesses During Outbreaks

​Amid an outbreak, small entrepreneurs are finding ways on how to keep their business afloat. Small and medium-sized businesses need to cope up with the changing behaviors of people and customers during this time. There is still time for small store owners to adjust to the changing trends and save their businesses. 

1. Keep the Line of Communication Open
   As a business owner, one of the most important things you can do is to communicate with employees. Most of them are probably concerned about a sustained income and protection of their health. With the available technology, you can send updates and information to your staff immediately through instant messaging or group chats. These types of communication platforms will allow two-way communication to avoid panic and qualms.
   
   
2. Invest in Technology to Encourage Work-From-Home Setup
   Most people already own a smartphone, laptop, and internet connection.  However, some may not have the necessary bandwidth to be able to do office work at home. Also, some businesses might not have the right equipment and office setup to back-up a work-from-home arrangement. Now is the best time to procure on the much-needed collaboration tools like system applications and secure Wi-Fi connections. Assume that this type of working setup will last for some time so that these tools will be one of your best investments at this time.
   
   
3. Build a Disaster Preparedness Strategy
   With the disruptions brought about by a pandemic, small businesses have to tweak their business plans. Most small businesses were not prepared to face a crisis of this scale. Now is the perfect time to create and implement a disaster preparedness plan.
   
   The new strategy must take into consideration remote workforces, online transactions, and being prepared for the worst. The plan also needs to include the following:
   
     - How to get the job done even when staff are working from home
     - Ways of conducting meetings
     - Business and personal insurance coverages for the company and employees
     - Travel protocols
     - Supply-chain procedures
     - Payment methods 

Some small businesses might be able to thrive during this time of crisis. But, there are more who might be forced to close down due to fewer people buying non-essential products. Business entrepreneurs remain optimistic and try to adapt to these new consumer behaviors, which might last longer than we expect. To protect your small companies, don’t forget to obtain business and personal insurance for you and your employees.

At All Things Insurance, we do our best in making sure that our clients are well-protected with affordable and comprehensive policies. We make sure to go the extra mile to help you with your needs. To learn more about how we can help you, please contact our agency at (763) 645-5450 or Click Here to request a free quote.