Pandemic Pivot
Is it okay to start with a side tangent?
For many years, my grandma has arrived bearing the gift of toilet paper as a host/hostess gift when visiting friends and family. And for many years, some of those hosts and hostesses took offense. It’s a little funny now to think that this would be a highly valued gift.
But that’s the point we’re at in life. Which leads me to my actual point.
A lot of businesses are having to pivot in a way that no one could have anticipated. Here are some companies who are doing it really well. Hopefully they inspire you to find new ways of running your business during these uncertain times. Or if you’re still stuck, don’t be afraid to ask for ideas in the comments.
The majority of this list is focused on the Phoenix-metro area for now, but it is a work in progress and I’ll add more resources and pivot-inspo as I find them.
Restaurants
I’m sure you’re aware of which of your favorite restaurants are offering abbreviated menus and to-go orders, but here are a few of mine:
Cibo is offering free delivery within five miles of its location, and I’d seriously consider moving closer if this turns out to be a long-term play. They are also offering pick-up and Postmates delivery for those of us outside the five-mile radius.
Social Hall posted its abbreviated menu on IG. Their green chili mac with carnitas is legit.
Worth Takeaway in Downtown Mesa is offering a grocery bundle (with two rolls of toilet paper!) for pickup. I haven’t actually been here yet, but that’s about to change.
Downtown Mesa says it has turned Main Street into a mile-long drive through. Yes, I will use this as an excuse to eat way too much food and call it “supporting local.”
Downtown Phoenix has a really nice takeout and delivery guide as well.
Farmers Markets
Many farmers market vendors are offering the option to pre-order. This is a great way to find items that may be out of stock at your normal grocery store while supporting local businesses. Here is where you can find information on which vendors in the Phoenix-metro area are offering this service.
Fitness
Some gyms and personal trainers have been doing sessions on IGTV. I recently started going to Orangetheory Fitness — big fan of the assigned stations and the abundance of sanitary wipes — and I was impressed with how swiftly they communicated their shutdown and provided at-home workouts on their Instagram to maintain customer engagement and loyalty.
Resources
Literally Broke: FREE Covid-19 Resources For Artists And Creatives
Literally Broke is a finance blog written by Scarlett, a foul-mouth playwright and screenwriter who paid off 12k in debt and increased by net worth by 15k on a 35k salary in ONE year. The first post I read included a rant about side-hustles, and I was an instant fan. In her latest blog, she provides links to financial resources and remote work opportunities for artists and creatives who may not have emergency funds.
Freedom Debt Relief: How to Ask Your Creditors for Loan and Credit Card Forbearance
You can’t predict financial hardship. But if you’re as proactive as possible, creditors will try to work with you in times of financial stress to postpone payments or offer other forms of assistance if you call them directly and explain your situation.
FCC: Keep Americans Connected Pledge
Many wireless and cable providers are waiving late fees, offering discounts, and providing assistance to families who qualify. The FCC provides a list of participating providers, but it can be more effective to call your providers directly to work out a plan specific to your situation.
ASU for You
ASU compiled some of its educational resources including tutoring and video lessons for grades K-12, simulations and labs for educators, and Ask a Biologist for everyone.