When COVID-19 swept across the nation in early 2020, many retailers had to face a startling reality. Having a physical presence might be the foundation of some businesses, but it’s no longer the only way to survive and thrive in a modern economy.

Brands that didn’t already have a strong online footprint when businesses were asked to close suffered more than others. But it’s never too late to meet customers where they are and take advantage of opportunities to make connections through online channels.

This is new territory for many brands, and the current environment is unprecedented for everyone. As Reputation.com opens its #digitalfrontdoor, we invite you to do the same and have spent some time speaking with a variety of industry experts and influencers on the topic. Here is what they have to say:

Andy Crestodina, Chief Marketing Officer, Orbit Media

Andy gives businesses valuable insight into improving a brand’s online presence through website optimization and looking at the experience through the eyes of your customer.

Brian Hart, Founder and President, Flackable

Brian emphasizes that small businesses need to amplify their online message more than ever in an increasingly digital economy. When approached digitally, this provides brands with opportunities to grow instead of simply focused on sustaining the status quo.

Janet Fouts, Corporate Trainer

Janet emphasizes that the way she, as a corporate trainer who usually provides her services in person, has been able to sustain and grow her business during COVID-19 is to pivot to online services. By opening her digital front door to cater to a need, she continues to see success.

Jeff Ganim, Digital Marketing Expert, Ri-Deem Digital

Jeff recommends that digital marketers leverage the wealth of data available to elevate the customer experience. Specifically, use the data to find out what people are searching for and then test solutions to open your digital front door to more customers.

Mark Asquith, Founder, Rebel Base Media

Mark emphasizes that there has never been a more important time for brands to connect with customers. He recommends using tools like podcasts to engage with consumers to let them know you value them and to stay in touch.

Matt Bailey, Digital Marketing Trainer

Matt, a primarily in-person digital marketing trainer, explains how he quickly shifted his business to virtual delivery. By making this pivot, Matt stresses that this is a benefit for both his clients and his business.

Roman Prokopchuk, Digital Marketing Expert

Roman has also moved many of his services online and states that he has elevated his business by adding value free of charge. He says that his organization has opened up new opportunities through constant testing to identify new sources of business.

Wes Yee, Senior Director, Growth, Guru.com

Wes states that his company has focused on building trust during the pandemic. When uncertain times arrive, brands have a golden opportunity to either build or destroy trust, and it’s vital to add value and meet people where they are during uncertain times.

The health and economic consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic have been devastating. Brands and digital marketers are being asked to change the way they approach CX management with a priority towards helping one another. These videos provide some valuable insight. Reputation.com is opening its digital front door and invites you to do the same. Learn more here.