Around this time last year, I began hosting online monthly events. What started as a knee-jerk reaction to the pandemic, quickly became my go-to strategy for surviving a year of no in-person events or gatherings.
Having an online business is a lot of work. Sure you get to skip the commute and eat lunch at home, but there are a lot of moving parts and technical things we have to adapt to in order to thrive online.
Here are 5 lessons I've learned about online business and what it takes to show-up, succeed and bring people together in an increasingly virtual world.
1. Be Consistent
It's easy to get swept away with an idea, like hosting a series of webinars or virtual events, but if you don't put systems in place to show up consistently, that effort could be wasted. People crave consistency. We thrive on knowing what to expect and when (that's why the disruption of the past year has been so stressful). Your ability to show up consistently impacts your business and your bottom-line.
2. Embrace Imperfection
It can be exhausting to be so visible all the time, especially when also trying to present a “perfect” version of ourselves. But you don't have to be perfect to be authentic. Collectively, we’ve all relaxed a little when it comes to how we present ourselves online. “Are you wearing pants?” is probably one of the most used phrases of 2020! Online marketing and regular zoom engagements have taught us that being present and being ourselves is more important than having flawless hair and makeup.
3. Find Community Online
We all need a support network, even when working virtually. Finding a community online like a virtual coworking space or group to gather with is really important. I joined Make Lemonade, a Toronto based co-working space, around this time last year and the weekly coworking sprints, mastermind sessions and community slack channel have been incredibly uplifting and inspiring for me.
4. Follow Your Flow
Zoom fatigue is real! While showing up regularly is great for business, it can be draining on you. We only have a finite amount of energy each day, so remember to be flexible with your schedule and take time throughout the day to rest and recharge. Take naps, schedule your work hours to match your flow, and if you need a mental health day – take it! After all, you’re the boss.
5. Have Fun
Being online doesn't have to be serious all the time. Get silly and have more fun. Explore new ways to make online spaces inspiring – make playlists, change your background, or host a virtual party. Bringing your upbeat and unique energy to online spaces helps make it feel more human. In my latest virtual networking event, we were all dancing at the end of the call!
I’m curious, how has one year of being online impacted you and your business?
What lessons have you learned? Share in the comments below!