MONICA : This really took a lot of soul searching , forecasting and networking to get my head into gear . I spent a lot of time thinking about my business , the brand , the objective and my definitions of success . I came to the conclusion that my business had many arms and many revenue streams . Effectively I needed a really excellent marketing plan – and that ’ s what I set about achieving .
Firstly , I worked on the minimum income that I needed to come through to door to stay afloat . Then , I faced the fact there was no income for the foreseeable future , so , what were my options ? What did I have at my disposal that I could use to help me ? Thankfully I had a lot . These included a network and following , a full equipped studio with lights and cameras , a name and brand .
I focused on several key areas . Building my brand internationally , designing online workshops , so if I couldn ’ t be there in person , I was going to be there on their screens ! I focused on social media , plus I collaborated intensively with products , videos for suppliers , interviews , cake groups , guilds , retailer hubs , sponsoring awards and competitions , judging etc . I threw my net wide and established what was working for me and what wasn ’ t . I also developed a new product line , which I ’ m pleased to say is now doing very well . All of this was an investment into my future , establishing myself as a brand and I feel it has paid off .
Plus , to keep relevant in Australia I created small packs of sweet goodies that could be posted Australia wide . For this idea , I thank Alisha Henderson for coming up with concept and getting many of us out of our comfort zone .
WHAT IS YOUR KEY PIECE OF ADVICE FOR KEEPING YOUR BUSINESS AFLOAT DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ?
MIRANDA : DONT GIVE UP ! Be okay with changing the plan . Diversify . Learn to adapt to change on the spot . Don ’ t let doubt or fear override your solution mode . You fight and you fight hard . When the time comes and the dust has settled you can deal with the emotional side of it then . Now when I look back there also has to be an element of trust in the bigger picture . No matter what , you need to know deep down in your core that you will be okay . You will be okay and you are only given situations in life that you will be able to deal with .