Duncan Foster, Business Development Manager at SDL Property Partners, offers advice and guidance to managing agents and leaseholders at a time where more uncertainty plays a key part in our day-to-day lives.
One of the main challenges for the market this year has been the need to adapt to the new normal – but where do we stand at this present moment? Just when we’ve all got used to how things are now working, we’re being thrown side-to-side with the unknown of whether our local town will fall under a second lockdown – but more so to that, what exactly that second lockdown will mean for business and life in general.
The pandemic hasn’t stopped and, in all honestly, we would be wrong to try and mask over it. If the last 6 months has shown us anything, it’s how understanding and supportive the community around us has been, right from day one. Businesses have still delivered services and products through clear communication via digital channels, and that’s exactly how we need to drive 2020 forwards.
Communication is Paramount
It really has never been more important to keep clients and customers updated. Having said that, it has to be an even balance between technology lead service and the personal touch of human conversation.
Our franchisees and their customers still have the same requirements as before covid-19 and, whilst there have been some level of tolerance for businesses this year, keeping those communication channels open and accessible has been key. There is nothing stopping you picking up the phone to discuss an issue, in fact, even social distant meetings are allowed.
No leaseholder should go without a managing agent, especially in the present moment in time. Honesty plays a crucial part in service and is vital for keeping business throughout the current circumstances, if there’s an issue at your end, hold your hands up and explain the misunderstanding then correct it.
Learning from Lockdown
A second lockdown so soon, regionally or nationwide, doesn’t come with the same adapting period as back in March. Clients and customers will be expecting a smoother running of business if that lockdown does come or is in your area.
Have you surveyed your clients and taken on board their feedback from the national lockdown? What did they find useful? How did they feel about your service? Use the information from this to adapt how you work going forwards, especially if a second lockdown does come to you.
If you need more support with your pipeline of business or providing quality service during a lockdown, reach out and speak to us about our franchise. It’s all down to support and service, and our property partners have had us to lead on both elements all year.
