Small businesses have growing concerns about liability as they reopen and conduct business during COVID-19, and that concern continues as we approach winter and the “regular” flu season. In a recent poll conducted by MetLife and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, 65% of small businesses reported that they are concerned about a second wave of the virus and that they may have to shut down again. In a separate joint study conducted by Thryv and America’s Small Business Development Centers (SBDC), that percentage was higher, at 75%.
Overall, there was optimism about the future in the MetLife poll responses, but many small business owners believed it would be at least 6 months before business returns to normal. The Thryv and SBDC ongoing study showed that many business owners believe it will be up to a year before they make a full recovery.
Adapting to running a business during a pandemic has seen many businesses making a number of adjustments: more frequent cleaning of surfaces, maintaining at least 6 feet of distance between employees, being more diligent about asking employees to stay home if that employee feels sick, and requiring employees to wear face coverings.
Some small businesses are preparing for the possibility of a second wave requiring closure by purchasing additional supplies, making sure their technology is up-to-date to allow for a shift to working outside the office, and preparing to update their website or social media outlets if a second closure is necessary. Business owners realize that now is the best time to come up with a contingency plan should another shutdown take place, but 3 in 10 business owners surveyed say they have taken no steps to prepare for a second wave of the virus.
We want to make sure you are prepared in the event of another shutdown. If you would like help coming up with a plan, or would like input on your existing plan, we are here to help. Contact our office by calling 312-878-0155.