The coronavirus pandemic continues to spread across the United States. Some experts say states like New York and Louisiana are nearing their peak, while others are just beginning to see the effects. Although no one knows how long we’ll need to “shelter in place” many scientists and health experts say we won’t be out of the woods until summertime and maybe even later.
Considering this is the new normal (at least for the time being), it’s crucial your e-commerce business takes steps to protect your clientele. Here are three steps we recommend.
1.) Update your website. Consumers are becoming increasingly conscious of where their packages are coming from. If you haven’t already, it’s important to dedicate a page of your website to your business’s coronavirus response. You don’t need to go overboard, but you should educate your customers on where you get the materials you use in your products and what steps you’re taking to clean and sanitize them. If you sell t-shirts or other clothing, this might mean washing them prior to shipping. If you sell food, it might mean wiping everything down with Lysol or Clorox wipes before heading to the post office.
2.) Wear proper safety gear while packaging. Your home and office are your sacred spaces, but that doesn’t mean you should continue packaging everything as normal. Go the extra mile during these challenging times. Consider wearing gloves and maybe even a face covering. Since coronavirus has been shown to spread through respiratory droplets, it’s important to take these measures.
3.) Respond to customer inquiries. Many people are using their social media channels to interact with businesses. You may have noticed an increase in questions and comments on you social media accounts. Make sure you respond in a timely fashion. If you choose to go radio silent, it may give off the wrong impression.
By taking these additional safety precautions, you can do your part to slow the spread while providing your customers with peace of mind.