Virtual selling event
Another online first for me… on Sunday 28th June I will be taking part in a Zoom craft Fair between 2.30 - 4pm.
Hosted by Local Business Champions Doorstep Living Chepstow, I am one of a handful of artisans taking part. There will be a general introduction, then each artisan will talk about their work and display some examples.
Attendees will be able to purchase items, (payment transactions made separately after the event) and/or arrange commissioned goods.
The way forward, at least for the short-term?
Craft fairs and similar outside events are just one area amongst many where changes will be needed in at least the short-term, to combat Covid-19.
With all three September events recently cancelled, I plus other artisans and makers are looking at if not a halt then severe limitations to face-to-face sales for at least the remainder of 2020.
Even if events were to run, having successfully negotiated all the emerging risks, customers are understandably likely to be wary going anywhere they may meet a large number of people.
With the increase of meetings via platforms such as Zoom, we are all looking at new ways of doing things in this ‘new normal’. It turns out one friend I spoke with after accepting the invitation is using Zoom to manage face-to-face meetings with a client over a commission.
I haven’t used the technology before but am looking forward to exploring the medium for possible ways of working with customers as the coming months unfold.
Apart from managing the risks of face-to-face contact, I can see an immediate benefit to would-be customers. People can join us from the comfort of their own homes, which creates opportunities beyond the lockdown for those who wouldn’t otherwise be able to attend due to mobility or other issues..
The Doorstep Living Online Craft Fair Sunday 28th June 2020, from 2.30 – 4pm. If you’re interested in joining us follow the link and sign up via Eventbrite. The Facebook link to the event is: https://www.facebook.com/events/702832740512210/
Perhaps I’ll see you there..