You engage customers all the time. But now, it’s more important than ever. Because most of America is confined to their homes during the coronavirus outbreak, you are going to have to be especially proactive, and creative, when it comes to reaching out. Business 2 Community contributor Kelly Forst recently penned an article that included six ways to keep that connection going, even when in-​person interactions aren’t possible. 

Engage customers remotely

Most people are currently staying at home, which presents a lot of opportunities. “Now’s a great time to offer courses or webinars to help people take advantage of the extra time,” Forst writes. Is there something you can educate customers or prospects about? Is there a part of your industry that you’d like to highlight? There are so many ways you can keep in contact while also providing value. 

Offer a discount or promotion to help out.

Engage customers by providing them some financial relief, whether it be a special discount or an added product or service. For example, if you’re a restaurant, offer free delivery to make it more affordable and accessible. As Forst points out, now is the time to “be empathetic and show your audience that you’re in it together.”

Be available for questions. 

Your customers will likely have at least a few questions during these confusing times, so be proactive and offer to answer questions. Forst suggests hosting a question-​and-​answer session online or devote specific hours of the day to video chats to deal with any concerns. 

Shift to online.

Is there a way you can offer your product or service virtually? Many businesses, from gyms to tax professionals, are adapting to new circumstances by offering live streams and video appointments. You can engage customers and keep them satisfied even when everyone is stuck at home by brainstorming ways to keep business going online. 

These are just a few highlights from Forst’s article, and she encourages her readers to strive to engage customers now more than ever, even if it has to be from a distance. “…communicating with your audience is key,” she writes. Being compassionate and doing what you can to help shows your audience you genuinely care.”