As we continue to navigate the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s quite clear that things aren’t going to go back to normal overnight. We’ve put together some top tips to help entrepreneurs come out of the crisis stronger than ever!

Adapt to the new normal

Since the outset of the pandemic, there hasn’t been much room for long-term thinking. Many entrepreneurs have had to take things day by day. But now that the economy is slowly starting to open up, it’s time to take stock and start planning for the journey ahead.

You should take this opportunity to reassess your goals. How do your targets align with this now very different landscape? Do your customers have a different outlook than they did before the start of the pandemic? Do they need something more from you? How can you deliver what they’re looking for? Maybe there’s even an opportunity to gain a competitive advantage?

Take time to align your thoughts and processes, so you’re ready to hit the ground running.

A renewed focus on upskilling

The pandemic has forced many companies to finally go fully digital. As a result, the need for new workforce skills (and outsourced consultants and freelancers) dramatically accelerated.

According to a global survey by McKinsey, 69 per cent of organisations are doing more skill-building now than they did before the COVID-19 crisis. The majority of respondents (58%) also said that closing skill gaps in their workforces have been their top priority.

A large proportion of the skills in need of upskilling are to address the dramatic digital advancements made over the past year. These include skills such as basic digital literacy, data analysis, and advanced IT skills.

In the same survey, McKinsey found that many companies are increasingly focused on developing social, emotional and advanced cognitive skills. For example, interpersonal skills, adaptability and continuous learning, critical thinking, decision-making, and leadership.

The takeaway from all of this? Society is constantly evolving, the last year has proven that more than any other. Investing time and money into adding to your own skillset is always going to be beneficial. It will help you stand out against other solopreneurs and allow you to offer more services — an attractive proposition for potential clients.

Be patient with yourself and others

Now that the post-pandemic world is opening up, we all need to take things at our own pace. Some people have been wondering, “When can I go back to my workspace?” for months. Others have found increased happiness and productivity working from home.

It’s important to accept that things will probably be a bit awkward for all of us for a while. It’s a new situation and adapting always takes time. Have patience with the people around you, and most importantly with yourself.

Focus on your finances

Finance is the centre of any business. A lack of financial management and poor efficiency can cripple even the savviest of solopreneurs. To help with this, be sure to create a budget that separates your personal affairs from that of your business.

You should also utilise the wide array of tools that are available. Many of these can help boost your efficiency, reporting and expense management.

Fast, affordable work rides with Bolt

If your work requires you to move around the city — now that you can — meeting clients, attending pitches, etc. Bolt is your perfect partner.

Our easy-to-use mobile app allows you to book a fast, affordable ride at the tap of a button. If you set up a Work Profile, you can add your business credit/debit card and have your receipts forwarded directly to your email, or to whoever manages your accounts.

Let us help you save time and money and ensure that getting around in the new normal is one less thing for you to worry about.