Virtually no one could have predicted the COVID-19 outbreak of 2020 as well as the impact it would have on businesses across the world. Megacorporations saw record losses and many, particularly those in the aviation industry, were forced to furlough or layoff their staff altogether. At the same time, it has been reported that certain businesses have been able to stay afloat with some even doing particularly well during the pandemic. Take Zaf Baker, for example, an entrepreneur whose businesses have managed to stay above water and even thrive during the COVID-19 outbreak. From his business model and actions, a few tips can be drawn on how to achieve business success during the COVID-19 outbreak. 

1. Follow guidelines: As much as your business may strive to make profit and do well during the pandemic, your first and most important task is to stay alive and healthy, both yourself and your team. The easiest and most effective way to do this is by following all guidelines that are put forward by the government and health agencies. If the region your business operates in is instructed to stay closed then do so and do not attempt to flout instructions. Should your business physically open, make sure that all sanitation social distancing and mask-wearing requirements are adhered to strictly. Also, make sure to disseminate all information to your customers regarding guidelines and enforce them as much as possible. This not only ensures the safety of all but also puts you in the good graces of your customers as they will be convinced of your concern for their health and safety.
2. Offer services at home: Many people have found their day-to-day activities restricted because of the COVID-19 pandemic and this is where your business has to get creative. Whatever your business offers, find a way to meet customers where they are so as to continue making an income. For example, certain gym centers began offering homework outs as paid prescriptions to customers during lockdown. Find a way to incorporate this into your business model, whether you are restaurants that will switch to take out and delivery, a learning center that will switch to online learning, or a physical store that will leverage the power of online shopping and home deliveries. If your business can innovate during this time then you are likely going to come out in better shape than your competitors.
3. Stay in touch with customers: While your customers may not physically be able to come into your business, this does not mean you have to be disconnected from them. Send periodic newsletters via email to inform them of your current situation and assure them that your business will try to learn as much as possible. Also, update your social media regularly to keep customers in the loop. Take Zaf Baker for example, who regularly updated his social media throughout the pandemic and such, customers and those who do business with him were able to stay on top of his current whereabouts and relevant business information.
4. Run your team remotely: The beauty of the Internet is that it allows for many processes and tasks to be carried out remotely without the need for physical interaction. This applies also to your business as, during the pandemic, it is imperative that your team learn how to function remotely in case lockdown restrictions are placed in your area. This includes emails, productivity boards messaging platforms, and so on.
5. Be considerate: While it is important for your business to make a profit, it must also be kept in mind that we are in the middle of a global pandemic and a source, safety health, and humanity should be kept first. Take Zaf Baker for example, who canceled rent payments for some of his tenants having considered the effects of the pandemic. While this may not be financially feasible for every business, make sure to show consideration and genuine concern for all your customers, team members, and business partners during this time.

While the pandemic and its effects are proving challenging for many businesses, it does not have to spell financial ruin. Consider the above tips for ensuring success and survival during the COVID-19 outbreak.