Around the world, all of us are settling into this idea of a new normal. This new consumer and business lifestyle is demanding a new playbook for brand marketing. The messaging, tone, and communication channels are fluid. Here are 3 insights that all brands should be considering: Acknowledge the situation. As the world looks for a new way forward through this challenging time, brands need to remain relevant and show their human side. A compassionate approach will result in long-term…...
Virtual Go-To-Assist
IT Changes. The world of IT support changed one morning with the advent of COVID-19. We used to be able to visit our customers in person and put our hands on the technology. We are now 100% remote support. Virtually, we're on-call around the clock to be there when needed. Cyber Threats Everywhere. We have remained focused on keeping our systems and processes secure from identity and data theft and we ask you all to help us keep security on…...
Social Distance Relationships CAN Telework
Communication – It’s key to any successful relationship…AND being informed. Contact by email and meetings by phone or videoconference are critical tools to allow us to remain in contact and be responsive to requests for information. Laptops are vital tools to successfully access all the necessary programs and sites we use on a regular basis. Microsoft Teams enables us to share desktops and collaborate on projects -- keeping us productive, the workflow smooth, creating fewer disruptions to our new normal.…...
How a Pandemic Brought Us Closer to Our Clients
In the world of marketing and communications, in-person meetings ending with firm handshakes are vital. Due to the spread of COVID-19, those days are cancelled until further notice. As more and more companies pivoted to work-from-home models that include virtual meeting options, the initial belief was this would be devastating for marketing and communications professionals. However, what we’ve found at Vistra is that despite communications challenges, we’re building even stronger bonds with our clients. Here are three ways to form…...
Gratitude, Even in a Pandemic
How thankful are we for technology right now? Very thankful. Technology lets Vistra get our work done remotely. We’re in communication more now than when we were together under one roof! This situation is challenging us to hone our communication skills. Video conferencing lets us maintain a human connection. And since the daily distractions that come with an office environment aren’t present, we have an opportunity to leverage productivity. Nonetheless, we know socialization is workplace glue. It bonds people. It…...
3 Valuable Insights Your Nonprofit Needs Now
We are all feeling the increased impact of COVID-19, but the challenges are unique for nonprofits. Vistra is committed to providing our clients with resources and best practices to help them navigate this difficult time. Here are 3 valuable insights for your nonprofit: 1. Reaffirm Your Mission. Continually remind people of the impact of your organization. Take this opportunity to highlight your work, especially if you have a specific role to play in our current situation. 2. Focus on Donor…...
CARES Act Provides Small Business Resources to Help Stay in Business
On March 27, 2020 the President of the United States signed a $2 Trillion aid package to help combat the economic destruction being caused by the widespread coronavirus. This package, Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, or CARES Act, is now a law. Among other priorities, the CARES Act provides financial support to small businesses and nonprofit organizations. Access to this critical financial assistance in a timely manner may be key to your business survival. However, during uncertain times…...
Running a Small Business through the Uncertainty of COVID-19
A recent Goldman Sachs Poll of 1,500 small businesses revealed that 51% of those business owners believed their businesses would be able to continue to operate for only 0-3 months. After reading this and the other results of that poll, I developed a presentation and held a virtual Microsoft Teams meeting for our headquarters personnel. I shared this information and discussed what we are doing to not only survive during this crisis but to focus on thriving – all while helping others…...
3 Valuable Insights Your Business Needs Now
While everyone in the community feels the increased impact of COVID-19, many small businesses and nonprofits are seeking ways to stay ahead of the curve in these difficult times. These three simple tips can make a big impact. 1. Keep communicating with your clients and prospects. Now is not the time to be reining in your efforts. Based on a case study from the Harvard Business Review, companies that kept their marketing consistent through downturns saw the greatest returns in…...