One of the words that likely comes to mind when thinking about the past year is “disruption,” and not in a positive way. No one expected the changes that the last year have brought, and some businesses have fared better than others. 

But 2021 is a new year, and with it comes the opportunity to rejuvenate your business or take it in a new and exciting direction. Here are a few of the top business trends that can help you plot and stay on the right path as the year progresses. 

5 Business Trends to Watch

1. Remote Work Will Continue to Dominate

The number of remote workers worldwide has been steadily increasing, but that figure made a giant leap in 2020. According to Stanford University, about 42% of the U.S. workforce now works remotely. 

And this may not be entirely temporary. Many businesses and some workers that resisted remote work in the past now realize its benefits. After COVID-19 has passed, a portion of these will return to in-person work, but many will remain remote. 

2. Digitalization Will Become a Priority

With the rise in remote work, many businesses were forced to scramble to upgrade their systems to accommodate both workers and customers. It’s simply good practice to have your business fully digitized. Some of the things that organizations are placing more focus on include:

• Offering mobile ordering, curbside pickup, and contactless delivery
• Adding a customer service chatbot to your website
• Expanding payment options to include cash apps and digital wallets
• Offering virtual store visits and e-commerce solutions
• Developing an app for your business 

3. Winning Brands Will Emphasize Empathy

No one is going to argue that 2020 wasn’t a stressful and challenging year. Today’s consumers want more than just quality products and services from the brands they support. They also appreciate empathy. 

The most successful businesses over the past year are ones that have remained open and honest with their customers. They build and maintain trust by connecting with customers on a more human level. This trend will undoubtedly continue. 

4. Profitability Over Growth Will Be a Focus

Some businesses just haven’t been able to survive the past year, and plenty are still struggling. It’s tough to think about growing or expanding your business when making payroll is your primary concern. 

As the country emerges from the COVID-19 pandemic, few businesses will be in growth mode. Instead, the ones that have weathered the storm will be more focused on re-establishing profitability. 

5. More Consumers Will Look to Shop “Small”

If you’re a small business, this is your time to shine. Customers are increasingly interested in supporting small businesses over big box stores. If you’re one of the big (or medium) dogs, you can show consumers how your company also supports the small businesses in the community to build trust and goodwill. 

Commercial Construction in Charleston You Can Rely On

Whether your business needs more space in 2021 or just something different, Carolina Services Inc. (CSI) can help. Since 1976, we have been helping clients throughout the Charleston area with space planning, commercial construction, commercial maintenance and repair, and tenant-up fit services. 

Contact us today to learn more about how our trusted services can help your business.