10 Strategies for Small Entrepreneurs to Adapt to a ‘New Normal’

In a world where the only constant is change, entrepreneurs have to be on the lookout for new threats and opportunities at all times. The current situation on the market calls for an even greater level of attention. When one small business after another crumbles, it might seem like there is no hope. Many people are discouraged from starting a new venture, while others close down their current enterprises in a hurry, hoping to save as many funds as they can.

Nevertheless, there are a few companies that thrive during this difficult time. By applying a few well-thought-out strategies, they can actively address new circumstances and successfully adapt to the new environment. Here are a few key actions every small entrepreneur should implement to keep their business afloat:

Not Being Afraid to Cut the Dead Weight

It is well-known advice, but it is worth repeating. There is no other choice in times of crisis but to make the necessary changes and eliminate all unnecessary expenditures.

To maintain a small business’ solvency, it would be helpful to:

• Reduce inventory costs,
• Rethink manufacturing processes,
• Curtail advertising expenses,
• Eliminate redundant services,
• Downsize the number of employees, and
• Review the company’s infrastructure.

Embracing New Technologies and Platforms

As mentioned earlier, entrepreneurs need to keep track of the latest advances in technology and social media marketing, especially in the current market conditions where everything can change overnight.

To not fall behind, small entrepreneurs should consider using management software (visit this website to see how a small business can benefit from it) and crowdsourcing platforms. It is also crucial to not neglect to optimize their websites for mobile devices and invest in developing mobile apps to provide their customers with more convenient use of their products or services.

Staying on Top of the Game

Instead of overextending, every small business owner should try and focus on their core business to ensure they won’t lose sight of what matters most. To stay competitive, it would be beneficial to:

• Establish a solid foundation for a franchise,
• Carefully research the market and target audience,
• Strengthen brand recognition, and
• Develop a strategic plan for future growth.

Going Global

The global market provides additional opportunities for small businesses. To not miss this chance, it is better to start thinking about scaling up operations right now. Some possible options include exporting products or services, partnering up with a foreign company, and expanding into new markets.

Rethinking Pricing Strategy

Since consumers are more frugal than ever, they will likely be more selective when it comes to spending their money. An increase in demand for cheaper alternatives is undoubtedly something to consider for every small business that wants to stay competitive. Business owners should consider offering special deals and discounts and promoting their business with coupons to succeed in this challenging environment.

Recruiting New Talents

In addition to the established team, small businesses will probably need a few extra hands to handle all the additional workload. There are two options to find the necessary employees — hire experienced workers or train recruits. If choosing the latter option, it is crucial to develop comprehensive onboarding and training programs and employ like-minded individuals.

Going Social

Engaging in social media marketing is usually an excellent way to attract new clients and keep the brand name relevant in the eyes of the public and have a higher return on investment. Thus, small businesses need to be active on the most popular social media platforms, including Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Here are some tips for those just getting started:

• Find out what current customers are searching for.
• Optimize social media campaigns for search engines.
• Use targeted advertising.

Explore Complementary Industries

Successful entrepreneurs tend to diversify their investments and explore various industries at once. This allows them to mitigate risk and capitalize on market opportunities that are not directly related to their original business model. In order to follow suit, small business owners should consider focusing on new business areas and startups.

However, as mentioned above, it will only be rewarding when the core business is taken care of, and brand recognition is already established.

Not Being Afraid to Adjust the Business Model

The most critical thing is to assess the situation and find answers to a few questions:

• What are the threats and opportunities that business faces? Are they under control?
• Which new strategies can turn things around?
• How to adapt the business model to the new environment?

If the answers are not satisfactory, it’s time to rethink the business model. As many entrepreneurs know, starting a business is easy, but running it is hard. Even if a brilliant startup idea skyrocketed during its first year, now its strategy or even the core business activities that generate profit might need a change.

Keep the Competition Close By

Finally, every entrepreneur should think about expanding their business by adopting some of their competition’s best practices. The more productive strategies they learn from their rivals, the better prepared their businesses will be to deal with future challenges on their own terms.

The Bottom Line

In order to ensure small businesses’ survival, it is essential to develop a resourceful mindset and think of ways to make better use of every available asset. Thus, small businesses should focus on improving their actual products and services, making the most out of the social media platforms and marketing opportunities they offer, and be ready to assess and readjust their business model if needed.

Remaining flexible and open-minded is crucial in this constantly changing environment.

Phil Cord is a freelance content writer. He loves exploring new solutions and their impact on business. Currently, he works with a group of specialists fascinated by the broadly understood subject of work. Their areas of interest include topics related to the future of work, offices, technology in the workplace, HR specialists’ competencies, health, communication and a wise combination of professional and private life.