Written by: Megan McDowell
For those fortunate enough to be able to work from home these days, many things become apparent. Not only has the current pandemic equaled the playing field in many ways, considering that we are all in this together, but it has also highlighted all of the superfluous elements of our daily lives. The “necessity” of professional attire is out the window as we have Zoom meetings in sweatpants or pajamas from home. And many “necessary” meetings are proving themselves to truly be worthy of only an email. But with all these formalities gone, the importance of connection, and communication, shines through and proves itself day after day.
You can see this from television commercials and shows where brand reps and show hosts televise from their homes, as well as with the funny viral videos of people underdressed at virtual staff meetings. At the end of the day, it is not the formalities that count, it is the connectedness that is important, and it is that which brings us together and allows progress in these times.
Utilizing technology available to us is one of the only options we have to attempt to move forward. Some businesses, unfortunately, do not have this option. But for many sectors, such as research, a new light has been shone on the importance and different use cases of technology that can arise from these uncertain times.
While social gatherings are restricted, the option of having in-person engagement to gather customer and client feedback are removed as well. But online interactions are still an option and they can help us learn more about the current situation and our customers during these times. As is the case when using any online engagement methods, the barriers of here vs. there are removed; it is the NOW that is important. Engaging people online has significantly less restrictions than trying to get together in person, even when there isn't a pandemic! It can be used to reach people no matter where they are, what they are doing, how they are dressed, or who is around them. Businesses can still reach out to customers, and likewise, their customers have a channel to reach out to them.
Individuals and companies must be responsive to this new normal. Online communication is ever-important and will be the vehicle that will help certain companies retain at least a small fraction of business-as-usual. Everyone is expected to be adaptable and flexible in these times. Businesses are not exempt from that. How they adapt and move though this will define how a business operates, and how its customers regard them, when this is all over.
Insightrix Communities is happy to talk if you would like to explore online engagement options.