Effective communications during Covid-19

The impact of Covid-19 has hit industries across the board all over the world. Undoubtedly the travel, tourism, hospitality, food and drink, and lifestyle industries have been hardest hit.

Since lockdown measures were introduced in Ireland in mid-March 2020, many households and businesses have experienced a dramatic fall in income and in some cases, 100% of their income. A lot of businesses had already been experiencing financial difficulties before the global pandemic.

To remain viable, businesses have had to adapt quickly. Implementing new measures to ensure the safety of staff and customers, and pivoting to keep things moving to maintain their presence. Businesses have also had to adapt communications strategies to keep staff and customers informed and reassured of safety measures in place, and updated of any changes to business.

During these unprecedented times, we have witnessed the sheer resilience and determination of many business owners around the country. Food and drink producers, who lost up to 80% of their business overnight when restaurants, bars and offices etc. closed, setting up online stores and nationwide delivery so customers can buy from them directly. Restaurants quickly adapting and offering delivery or click and collect services. Tourist attractions offering virtual tours. Gym and yoga instructors offering online sessions. All these sudden, and in some cases costly, changes to business will not be as effective unless they are communicated to customers. Now, more than ever, businesses need to keep their staff and customers informed and updated on what they are doing and how they are doing it. 

It is also vital for businesses to bring purpose to their brand and show customers that they are doing something of value. This gives customers an understanding about how businesses are supporting the community. The ‘Feed The Heroes’ fundraising initiative partners with restaurants and takeaways, caterers and commercial kitchens to prepare and deliver meals to frontline workers to show solidarity and gratitude to those who are working long shifts in very challenging circumstances to keep us safe. Businesses demonstrating to customers what actions they are taking to help in this time of need, helps build a sense of community solidarity, pride and loyalty. 

Small and medium sized businesses are the backbone of the Irish economy and local communities. They support other local businesses, create strong relationships and keep money in the community. Shopping local also means more jobs in the community and it is important for businesses to communicate this to their customers, especially in these challenging times.

No one knows what is around the corner. Every day, there is a new development. Business owners are well-versed in dealing with challenges on a daily basis; a global pandemic is a mammoth challenge that has not been experienced in over 100 years, but there will be an end. We are now a society living with Covid-19 and businesses must adapt their communications strategies to keep their customers informed and updated as well as to encourage their communities to support Irish business and to come back to theirs.