Over the past 20 months, pivot reopen or close has been the rock paper scissors of this recovery and our lives a game of probability and random chance. We all know it rock beats scissors, scissors beat paper, and paper beats rock. However, pivot, reopen or close when timed properly can effectively change the direction of companies’ or individuals for a positive more predictable future. Effectiveness such as building awareness over the internet after not having an internet presence before the pandemic. Pivoting in a different direction offering only takeout dining/delivery for a small restaurant that has never offered takeout before. Reopen one retail location for curbside pickup after 20 months of E-commerce/online orders only. What does it really mean for the economic growth of your community: Clients, Customers, Associates, Associations and Neighborhood? For Small Business owners or Executives pivoting products and/or services will mean collaboration and partnerships. While continuing to offer a valuable exchange benefiting recovery during this pandemic.
The questions and answers are still coming. With more clinical trials, research and testing we are learning more about this virus. Coronavirus Covid-19 and it’s different variants. How social distancing, stay-at-home orders, masking, PPE, outdoor dining, Vaccines, and Booster combine will contribute to a safer reopening and economic recovery.
Not since early 2012 outside of Sports, Politics and Technology has the word pivot been used or overused until now. As it relates to navigating the current economic recovery from bottom lines, livelihoods and futures. As defined: To Pivot- a pin or short shaft on which something turns around which something rotates. 2. a person or thing to which something depends. 3. a whirling around on one foot.
Reopening, in reading the Bookings Institute report on “Reopening American” Is a reminder since 2020 this virus has taken over 300,000,000 lives. In Cities across the country decision makers are implementing strategies designed to get students back in school and local economies moving again. Strategies on how to get furloughed employees back to work. Reopening and recovery will require reimagining America everything from how we operate our healthcare system in person/tele health; Our education system, in person/or at home learning; How we network with colleague and socializing with family and friends. It will not be easy learning to pivot during this continued state of uncertainty.
Planning thousands, even millions of dollars spent; personnel work from home/in-person, staff trained; plan looks achievable on paper; beta testing show favorable results. No plan is perfect however, the key to achieving better results starts with well managed expectations. Pivot to create an environment that is focused on health, safety and growth during this pandemic.
Note: Something to keep in mind as you pivot. Reconnecting with your audience should not be lost in translation you want the transition to be as clear and seamless as possible.
- Utilize software tools creating seamless integration.
- User generated content.
- Leading through change.
- Areas of growth internet video/rich media; social media and Podcast.
The key is finding balance to maintain and execute major paradigm shift find something ahead to focus on. While learning to line dancing the teacher instructs us to focus on a spot in front of you this helps maintain balance when turning. I would imagine this same instruction can be helpful during this time of uncertainty when the past 20 months pivot, reopen, or close has been the rock paper scissors of this recovery.
All the Best in 2022,
Joyce A. Waller
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