The impact of Coronavirus upon the business world cannot be underestimated. The extensive and exhaustive furlough scheme and Business Interruption Loan Schemes created by the UK Government prove that, financially, COVID-19 has brought much turmoil. Now, as lockdown measures begin to ease and trade begins to pick up once more, the competition between businesses is fiercer that ever to ensure their survival. So how can you make your business stand out? Here are three ways for firms to excel.
Get creative
Now is the time, more than ever, for business leaders to encourage forward thinking and embrace creative ideas and change. Innovation will be the key success as the economy begins to restart after lockdown. It may be that this is the time to launch a project, lead by a creative and talented freelancer, who can bring a fresh perspective to the business and challenge growth. A collaborative partnership bring a boost to current employees, too.
Ditch the office
Coronavirus has undoubtedly changed the way we work, with many firms opting to streamline their business by encouraging more flexible working – both with regards to working from home and flexibility surrounding working hours. As long as work is completed and contracted hours fulfilled, having changeable work hours is feasible, and may even boost productivity by keeping employees happy and allowing them to work when they feel most motivated.
Take on temporary staff
The perception of freelancers and gig economy work has been long overdue an overhaul. Historically, freelancers have been excluded from the benefits of the permanent workforce including workplace culture, socialisation and support networks. Now, with the turbulence caused by the lockdown crisis, the private sector’s reliance on flexible workers will not only become apparent but crucial to its survival, as firms seek to bring in expert talent to lead and deliver key projects.
