Online learning recommended to maintain customer engagement during the COVID 19 Crisis.

Chartered Institute of Marketing Advice

In its recent article, published on the 26^th March 2020, ‘’DRIVE MAXIMUM VALUE FROM ONLINE LEARNING’, the CIM states ‘online training has certainly been an ideal solution for marketing professionals keen to boost their learning during extended periods of self-isolation or while working at home and juggling personal and professional pressures’. 

INCREASE ONLINE REVENUES AND ENGAGE WITH CUSTOMERS

We certainly endorse the above view and in fact would take it further, on the basis of our own experience as marketers advising our clients.  It is not just marketing professionals who can benefit in these circumstances where just about everyone, apart from key workers, are at home with significant time on their hands.

Where practical and appropriate businesses can adapt to offer online ‘educationals’, demonstrations, and actual training related to their products or services.  Two of our clients are doing this, one offering an educational course on his product and the other offering a half day training course (which can of course be extended as his customers develop their skills).  As well as maintaining engagement these new approaches provide additional revenue which will assist the businesses in remaining financially viable during this crisis.

All online connections are not without their challenges however, as noted by CIM (and we paraphrase) – ‘with online learning there are opportunities to really concentrate because there are fewer distractions, but those being engaged need to be disciplined to get the most from this form of training’.  It is worthwhile therefore to recognise and consider the environment of the customers and give good advice in the preparation stage of the training regarding setting aside a quiet time and space for this purpose.