We certainly hope not, but until then, we will be dealing with shut-downs, restrictions, new rules, etc. Many members have expressed that their home inventory business has experienced a decrease in clients. Unfortunately, people often make the assumption that “everyone” (especially in-house services) chose to stop doing business, or put it on hold.

What to do? Following are some key tips:

Let people know you’re still here! If you have a website, blog and/or social media accounts, post notices that you’re taking new clients. Include that you will wear a mask (and gloves if they prefer). If you’re vaccinated, be sure to include that information as well.

Email or call your current clients. See if they have purchased new items since you created their inventory – remote updates are perfect for those who are very cautious right now. Ask for referrals – people are more inclined to invite a “stranger” in when suggested by a friend.

Stay in touch with prospects and referral sources. Inform them that you are still providing your services, and always ask for referrals!

Call estate attorneys. If they are already referral sources, let them know you’re still providing your inventory services. If they haven’t yet met you, give a quick intro and ask if you can send an email introducing your business. Sadly, estate attorneys continue to get new clients, so this is a sector of the industry that cannot put things on hold.

Call insurance agents. Let them know you’re still providing your inventory services, and ask for referrals. Also, mention appraisal services if you’ve achieved your CAE.

Contact small business owners. If they are shut down, or their employees are temporarily working from home, this would be a good time to do an inventory of their assets and not interrupt the workflow or be in contact with their employees. As an added service, you could offer to create a “location” document noting who has what business equipment in their homes.

Talk to networking group leaders. With restaurants/coffee shops closing, opportunities for a one-on-one meeting have diminished. Even when open, many people are not comfortable meeting with others. Many networking organizations have scaled down or stopped meeting. Encourage these groups to create on-line meetings.