“No way was that 5 years ago”… that was my immediate reaction reading people’s ‘5 years on from COVID’ posts. Like many of you, I imagine that on one hand, it feels like only yesterday, and on the other hand a whole lifetime ago.
So this week I paused and reflected back on our story – in many ways we’ve emerged a stronger and a better business because of it.
🙏 We all came together
Right back at the beginning, it was a time of great uncertainty and anxiety. But this common goal brought the whole team together. A single focus and determination to keep supporting clients and each other navigate uncharted waters.
🚀 Leading through adversity
As a business leader, I remember trying to portray calm, confident leadership – that feeling of staying calm above the surface whilst frantically treading water to keep afloat. But actually, when things were stacked against us, all we could do was take it step-by-step and try to keep moving forward.
🧠 Rethinking the whole business
We’d been thinking about creating our own product for a good few years. COVID was the final ‘kick’ that we needed. It seemed to give us the space to rethink our whole business model, and work out where (and how) an agency can provide the most value in the ‘new normal’. … our LOOP platform for attractions was a direct result of the pandemic and shifting client requirements.
What were the lessons…
- Over-communicate and embrace screen recordings / video for consistent and convenient team-comms
- Don’t be afraid to rip up your whole business model in search of something better
- Look after yourself first and foremost… make time for yourself above all
- Be selective about what you say yes to
- Always be mindful of your priorities and what really matters
- People are quick to adapt when given the chance or the urgency
- Stay positive and try to be optimistic
I think those are the main points at least. Even now, with all the uncertainty and challenges in the economy, and wider political turmoil, I think looking after yourself is number one.
If you’re tired, burnt out or down, then no-one wins.