With the gradual easing of restrictions in NSW due to a reduction in the number of new COVID-19 cases and life gradually begins to get back to some form of normality, many small businesses in Port Stephens are bracing for some unfamiliar challenges.
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Fortunately, there is support for anyone feeling anxious about kick starting their business.
Port Stephens Women In Business (WIB) president Fiona Brown (a workshop facilitator, life coach and Reiki master) and vice-president Kerri Rodley (a psychologist and wellbeing practitioner) believe that planning and research are important tools for Port businesses eager to re-emerge from the isolation with confidence and growth.
"Business owners should firstly reflect on how they have handled the changes, what worked, what didn't and what they would do differently. Only then they can then make solid plans for implementing changes. They can also think about what it is that they have always wanted to do in business, but have been in too much of a rut to do any different," Ms Brown and Ms Rodley said in a joint statement.
The professionals say this could be a good time to research other products or services their business could offer that will take advantage of the new situation; and to research different ways to get products to consumers, such as more online or virtual options.
"Restaurants could continue with food pickup and delivery services; yoga studios and gyms could continue offering online sessions; counsellors, healthcare providers and other consultants can continue to offer their services through video conferencing platforms.
"If you have been able to shift focus and remain in business during this period, think about whether you should continue to grow that part of your business. And if your business was one of the many that was able to allow employees to work from home, consider whether you can continue to offer this option."
The WIB members say it is important that small business owners begin thinking about work spaces and changes to create better social distancing with the placement of desks in an office or tables in a restaurant.
"It could be a good time to update cleanliness procedures in the workplace, particularly in community spaces like a shared kitchen, or conference room; and installing hand sanitiser dispensers and disinfectant wipes for surfaces, no-touch garbage cans, etc."
They have urged all business owners to continue communicating with their networks for support and advice, and to speak with other small businesses to share ideas and innovative practices.
"A good starting point for online networking is the PSWIB Facebook page which provides a space for small business owners to network, share information and seek advice."
