To say businesses have been facing a “survive or fold up” challenge in 2020 is an understatement. But for some company leaders, it’s not all doom and gloom. Their optimism and refusal to be beaten down is alive and well. Charlie Katz, Bitbean’s Executive Creative Director, shares the optimism of hundreds of CEOs and business leaders in Bitbean’s newly released eBook, CEOs Speak: Shaking Their Fists at Covid-19.
This incredibly inspiring eBook is filled with over 300 business leaders who share their strategies for success both now and in a post-pandemic world. In addition, they give advice for other businesses looking to make their own plan for the future.
Charlie Katz found a common thread among these companies that seem to defy common logic amid Covid-19 surges, shutdowns, layoffs, etc. They share “A feisty spirit that refuses to kneel before Covid-19. Their companies may have taken some body blows, but they will still be standing when the final bell rings.”
For some companies, it’s about the flexibility. Andrew Gruel of Slapfish Restaurant Group reminds us that “businesses need to be flexible while remaining authentic and true to who they are and remembering their original business model and goals.”
For others, pivoting and adapting is the key. As Daniel Odess of Global Pro recommends, “I would encourage entrepreneurs to consider the advice of experts, like us, and more so than ever, seek out assistance with goal setting and planning. Be ready to adapt and pivot. Don’t get complacent.” But it is not just about listening to the experts. Listening to customers is important to adapt says Amy McDonald of Altwell. Her advice expresses one main strategy, “The single most important thing our business can do as we emerge from this is to really take the time to listen to consumer needs. I mean really listen.”
Yet, some companies fortunately found themselves thriving. Jason Middleton of Silver Air explains “right out of the gate we are getting interest from a lot of new customers who have never flown private before. I would say about 75% of our new bookings are people who have never flown private before. I think our industry is going to thrive in the post-COVID world.”
Some feel fortunate to be in a good position to succeed in spite of the pandemic. Jasmine Crowe of Goodr, an organization that connects businesses with surplus food to non-profit organizations, feels fortunate. “We’ve been lucky enough to continue to grow during this time and expand our offerings to reach as many people as possible. However, we will need to evaluate the programs and services that we’ve introduced these past few months to see how they will work in the post-COVID environment.”
Fight through the pandemic was the battle cry of some business leaders who found themselves on the wrong side of Covid’s wrath. Alexander Cardona of OneShare Health gives hope to those struggling. “For anyone who is feeling anxious, I’d remind them of who we are as a country and as a people. We’re fighters — we have always persevered in the face of challenges and adversity…”
Scott Tannen of Boll & Branch suggests status quo is the best route to take. “We will continue to do what we’ve always done. Focus on quality, value, service and empathy. It was a good policy pre-COVID and will be post too!”
As a company, Bitbean is excited to share the relentless optimism of these leaders at a time when it’s needed the most. Enjoy the read and share with everyone. Whether entrepreneurs or seasoned CEOs, readers will get the chance to peer into the mindset of business leaders as they move through some of the most challenging obstacles of their time.
