Things we learned running a startup during a pandemic
It’s probably never easy to run a business. However, it can be harder than usual when you are trying to do it during a global crisis.
Here’s what we learned through the COVID-19 pandemic:
Be adaptable
It's clear that customers behaviours and demands have changed due to the outbreak. As a startup, we are blessed with flexibility because we can move fast.
When something changes, act fast. This seems super obvious but for a variety of reasons, it’s easier said than done.
Nobody likes to change. There will always be resistance to change, and there always will be change. And the quicker you get to that, the easier it is. It’s not such a difficult thing - Nick Nolte
Communication is key
Keep communications open and talk to your customers. Ask them questions to understand how you can help them and how their changing needs impact the way they use your product. Communication is key if you're going to adapt to new situations.
Check in with your customers and team to show them that you are there for them and that you're listening. Make it easy for people to ask questions, air concerns and provide feedback. We checked in with every customer personally and got them involved in our world.
So keep communicating. In fact, over-communicate! Your team and customers will be grateful for the interaction and after all, keeping your customers engaged is the secret to success during this difficult time.
Have empathy
The pandemic has been an uncertain time that caused major disruptions for everyone. Be kind, compassionate and empathetic. Everything we do in life impacts others. There’s no way around it.
But, there are also some really important human values that are even more important than normal when shit hits the fan.
Looking back, we did a good job on this. It’s part of who we are. It's part of our company culture. So perhaps what we reinforced was just how important this stuff is. If you are able to make positive changes in people’s lives when they most need it, they will never forget it.
Ask for help
Often times people are reluctant to seek support for fear of ‘admitting’ they can’t achieve something on their own, which is also known as your ego. There are many people out there who have already navigated through the path and obstacles and and are happy to share their experiences and guidance.
You may be surprised, people feel good when they help others. So don't be shy to reach out if you want to vent or just have quick catch up - qivin@flytree.co
Get inspired by other entrepreneurs
A startup's journey is like a roller coaster on fire. You can have incredible moments where you feel on top of the world and then the next day you can also feel like 💩.
Observing the success of others is always a good idea to lift your spirits. Watching these people and following their journey not only gives you comfort and inspiration but also provides you with lessons on how they managed to get over the fence. With ton of resources nowadays like podcasts and blogs, entrepreneurial wisdom has been more attainable.
PS - My go to podcast - SAAS PODCAST
Final Thoughts
- Embrace the unknown but stay focused.
- Celebrate small wins.
- Communication is KEY.
- Ask for help.
- Continue learning and growing.
Follow our journey
Through this blog, we plan to document our journey, lessons learnt as well as findings along the way. We would love you to keep in touch, feel free to drop me an email at qivin@flytree.co
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Are you a podcaster or blogger? We're open to interviews and collaborations.
Peace ✌️