Earlier in 2020, the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic had fully spread, leaving countless small businesses and large enterprises impacted. In particular, ventures in their startup and budding phases took the unfortunate brunt of the economic consequences of the global tragedy, with most of them closing down over the past few months. And taking heed of this alarming situation, Charlie McCoy, the esteemed owner of Artisan Barber, stepped into the challenge of shedding light on how his business was able to stay afloat despite the dire circumstances.
Widely acknowledged for having others’ best interests at heart, Charlie McCoy decided to come up with a blueprint geared towards entrepreneurs and business owners who are trying to survive and thrive in this COVID-19 economy. As the founder of one of the most successful barbershops in New York City, he took it upon himself to share with the world how he was able to stay on top of his game even during the pandemic.
According to Charlie McCoy, the first thing that any business owner should do is make a plan. With this emergency pandemic plan, entrepreneurs must give themselves enough runway or allowance for a couple of months that would be spent on calibrating expenses against the expected and desired revenue. The Artisan Barber owner also added that being resourceful can come in handy. For instance, finding ways to pursue government funding like pandemic relief programs can help proprietors bridge the gaps.
Another thing that one should keep an eye on is having a clear line of communication. Like Slack or Basecamp, having an old-fashioned email chain or group text can help business owners and the rest of the staff stay updated with matters pertaining to health, safety, reopening, social distancing, and whatnot. During his first closure, Charlie McCoy had everyone in his team on a group text, and they would check in on each other from time to time. In this way, people in the organization can make sure that no one gets left behind.
Moreover, Charlie McCoy also shared that he and his team were able to utilize social media platforms through a Go Fund Me campaign on their YouTube channel. They also relied on word-of-mouth marketing to ensure that their clients are in the loop regarding the reopening of their business operations.
Aside from economic and financial predicaments, business owners should also never lose sight of the health implications that the COVID-19 pandemic has brought. In an interview, Charlie McCoy shared that one of the things that helped him was scheduling walks along the East River near his uptown apartment in Manhattan. He also explained how practicing daily gratitude shifted his mindset and perspective. By being grateful for the everyday miracles, he was able to stay grounded even amid all the obstacles and challenges in his life.
Considering that face-to-face or physical interactions are already being minimized, Charlie McCoy highlighted the importance of online presence. Thus, he encourages business owners to have at least two to four different landing pages with various audiences so that they can still make people aware of their products or services.
Lastly, Charlie McCoy amplified the need for utmost customer care as soon as the business would decide to reopen. He cannot stress enough how crucial it is for entrepreneurs and proprietors to follow safety protocols and other health guidelines.
Being one of the leading authorities in the commercial space, Charlie McCoy wasted no time extending his insights and experiences during this COVID-19 climate. He believes that by sharing the aforementioned tips and tricks, he can help struggling business owners. For him, nothing is more rewarding than being a part of others’ success.
To know more about Charlie McCoy, you may visit his website.
