Everyone is talking about the new normal. What will it mean? What does the future hold?
While we are all anxiously awaiting moving on with life after Covid 19, there are some serious concerns about how we reopen the economy and the world.
One thing most experts agree is that there will continue to be a need for social distancing, even as businesses start to re-open their doors to customers. But there are still many questions about how exactly that may work, and what restrictions will be placed on businesses.
One thing we are already starting to see as some states start allowing businesses to open their doors - limiting their foot traffic. You may already be seeing this at some of the big box locations. They are 'metering' their customers in and out of their doors, initiating social distancing lines and only allowing a limited number of people in the store at any given time.
Many states are building rules into their 'reopening' plans that will require businesses of all types to follow these guidelines. Imagine, waiting in a social distancing que to enter a mall! Like it or not, this is likely part of the 'new normal'... at least in the short term.
Eventually, people will get frustrated with waiting in lines and dealing with some of the negative implications of social distancing in business. So businesses need to innovate.
So how can we cope?
Consumers will be looking for new ways to streamline their buying or service experience to avoid some of the painpoints of social distancing measures. Smart entrepeneurs will realize that there is a powerful way to do this, and it involves tools that some industries have already been using for a long time; Bookings, Appointments and Reservations. Not only will these tools improve the customer experience, they will help business owners responsibily open.
The Value of a Reservation
In the past, reservations were most common in finer dining and entertainment. Think of the benefit of a reservation - you get to skip the line and arrive ready to be served without a wait. Without setting a resevation at a popular restaurant you may have to wait an hour or more. In some cases you may not even get in. With a reservation you're entitled to a faster and pain-free experience.
In the post-covid world, reservations will be a part of many other types of businesses, not just entertainment and dining.
Here are some examples -
Gyms may offer a reservation service allowing members to book their workout time, ensuring that equipment is readily available throughout all times of the day.
Boutique stores may offer reservations in order to prevent social distancing lines.
Bike shops may offer an online booking services for customers to test ride new bikes and purchase clothing and equipment.
Hardware stores may offer appointments with associates to give them one-on-one service to help them through their projects.
Clothing stores may offer book ahead appointments for shopping and fitting.
An increased number of restaurants will get on board with serving by reservation only and eliminate walk ins entirely.
Many service businesses such as hair stylists and massage therapists will likely need to make appointments mandatory in order to limit the number of people crowding their location.
Long term, this is alot of good that will come of this -
For the Consumer
By making an appointment or reservation to shop or be served, you in essence are ensuring that you're getting the best customer service, and may even feel like you're getting a VIP experience. No longer will you need to wait for an associate to help you while they are helping a crowd of other people in the store. You have their full attention, and they are committed to helping YOU.
If a businesses limits the 'peaks' by effectively implementing appointment or reservation shopping or services, you can expect that they will likely have their location in clean, working order. This can significantly help improve your overall shopping experience and of course help with overall hygene.
For the Business Owner
Reservations are a very powerful way of metering your business. It allows you a very strategic way to avoid the peaks that every business has that put a strain on resources. You can, in a very real way, spread out your customers throughout the day and bring in a strong, consistent revenue stream throughout the day or week.
Outside of that, taking bookings allows you to plan for inventory, personnel, and other required resources. It gives you time to make sure your work environment is organized and sanitized, and can give you a better sense of 'feeling ahead'.
Very importantly, this can provide you a very responsible way to encourage social distancing at your place of business. Business owners share a responbility to keep their customers safe and provide them with a sanitary experience. By encouraging your customers to book your services or book a time to shop at your location, it allows you the time and planning to do so rather than reacting to customer surges.
There are many tools that at your disposal
Whether you're a retailer, restaurant owner, service provider, or other professional, there are thousands of tools out there that can allow you to take reservations or book appointments:
1.) Online
2.) Over the Phone
3.) Via an App
For very small startups and retailers, a Wix Website with the Booking app is a great way to easily implement online booking within your business. It's very user friendly and can be built and maintained by someone with even limited computer skills.
For restaurants, using a tool like OpenTable is a great way to easily take online reservations.
For service professionals, WooCommerce has a great booking tool that allows you to take reservations for any service or experiencing. It's a robust tool with alot of great flexibility.
Do Something
Don't Fold! Now is the time to innovate and try something new. There are many good things that will come to business owners who innovate and try new ways to WOW their customers. Consider implementing a way to allow your customers to avoid crowds while at the same time providing them with exceptional service.
Need Help?
Give us a call or set an appointment with us (see what we did there??) for a Zoom call. We would be happy to provide you with a free consultation to help get set you on the right path!
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