Six Lessons Learned From Launching a Business in a Global Pandemic!
Everyone is excited for me, but what they are really thinking might be something like this: “Really, you launched a new business during a global pandemic?”
My answer: “Yes, I did!” With an abundance of caution and careful consideration, I launched MORR Strategy.
Is there ever really a good time or a bad time to launch a new business? Yes. Maybe. No. I ultimately realized there is no perfect time, and I had to go for it! And, now, I am thrilled to share the most salient lessons I’ve learned during the first 30 days as the founder and lead principal of MORR Strategy. I am certain there are many more to come.
Focus on being business responsive, not pandemic reactive. Services, events, and product messaging will likely shift from pre-pandemic copy and ideas. Creativity is vital here. Be careful not to act on news, pandemic stressors and the like, and develop dynamic ideas and plans for your business in non-pandemic times.
Tone is always important. The words you choose are exceedingly important as is the delivery of those words. It doesn’t matter what type of business you are launching. Be extra careful what you say and how you say it in your launch messaging, especially during this time of heightened uncertainty, emotions, and isolation. Be prepared that you may offend some.
Shift expectations for success. It is widely acknowledged that in the current environment nurturing business relationships is paramount and avoiding “pure” or “hard” selling is critical. Stay in touch, cultivate new relationships, and let empathy guide your conversations. Redefine your measures of success. Add significant time to accomplish them given the unknown duration of the pandemic and grasps of post-pandemic normals.
Find your relevance in the crisis and offer services, events, and products to help those in need. In your launch communications, be genuine and kind, and offer authentic help.
Thrive from uncertainty and vulnerability. Launching a new business is tough no matter the external circumstances. Sit with uncertainty and vulnerability and use the emotions to propel your business forward. Use your brain share to explore additional business approaches.
Value your partners and compensate them accordingly. Ask for what you need, select collaborators that align with your philosophies, and respect their partnerships. Talk openly and honestly with suppliers if you have cash-flow and/or time constraints. Everyone is impacted and we're all in this together. Find those who need you as much as you need them, and build lasting and durable relationships based on reliability and integrity.