The COVID-19 pandemic has forced business owners to abandon their traditional ways of reaching current and potential clients and embrace digital methods almost overnight. Whether you have become an expert in technology, or are still struggling to adjust to the new normal, business owners will likely need to continue to use technology even after this emergency is over. Business owners can use technology to reach clients in the following 5 ways:

• Embrace Social Media

Chances are your customers and clients are already on social media platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Therefore, business owners have the opportunity to meet their audience where they’re already at. Social media platforms allow businesses to attract potential clients to their website, share updates on their services and products, post blog articles and videos, and launch campaigns. Additionally, most platforms offer live streaming and “story” features that allow potential clients and customers to directly engage with your business’s account.

• Utilize Video Conferencing

While it is not the equivalent to meeting in the same room, video conferencing is a better alternative than a traditional phone call when you are unable to meet with clients in-person. Video conferencing still allows business owners and clients to speak face-to-face, and see each other’s facial expressions and body language. Conducting client meetings and potential new client consultations via video conferencing can also save time and resources, and expand a business’s reach, especially when people are reluctant to venture out in public. This shows potential clients and customers that you care about their safety and are willing to work with them to establish a relationship.

• Host Digital Events

Rather than canceling or postponing in-person courses, events or speaking engagements, businesses should consider hosting digital events and webinars. Providing clients and customers with the opportunity to participate in virtual events, online courses, and webinars allows them to continue learning and interacting with your business from home. This can also prevent loss of customers and income, especially if your business offers in-person classes and events as a service throughout the year.

• Create a Vlog Series

Vlogs allow potential clients to see and hear you instead of just reading about you on a website. Vlogs allow you to show off your personality and communication style, and give potential clients an idea of what it would be like to work with you. Engage potential clients and allow them to get to know you and your business by creating and publishing videos on topics related to your business. For example, business owners can post “How-To Guides” and “FAQs” videos for potential clients to hear their thoughts and advice about a particular matter.

• Offer Instant Messaging

Some potential clients, especially millennials, prefer the anonymity of connecting with a business via email or instant messaging, rather than through a traditional phone call or in-person meeting. Business owners can meet this need by offering ways for potential clients to connect with their team via contact forms or “chats” on their website, or by simply listing an email address with their other contact information. Further, chatbots can improve customer service by automatically answering common questions outside of normal business hours. A human team member can then handle the more advanced questions.