How Did the Virus Infect You? Life and Business in the New Normal

On November 18, 2020, SIM Global Education (SIM GE) hosted the SIM Innovation & Networking Society (IONS): Initiation Night 2020. The virtual event featured organizations that successfully incorporated digital transformation into their business operations and workforce. Webpuppies CEO Abhii Dabas was one of the guest speakers at the event.

To kick off his presentation, Abhii discussed how the Covid-19 pandemic brought digital technologies to the forefront of many industries, and how it created a new normal workplace. Noting that the virus has "infected" many people, not only in the physical aspect but also by disrupting daily routine activities.

Large companies and small- and medium- enterprises (SMEs) slowly saw digital technology as a vital component in all aspects of doing business. When the Covid-19 pandemic happened this year (2020), technology became a must-have for companies to survive in the market.

Individuals and organizations have started to adapt to the new normal set-up in the workplace. Some industries have utilized technologies amidst these trying times. For example, healthcare companies now use digital platforms to communicate with patients. Real estate companies now offer virtual property viewings for interested buyers. Entertainment has also transitioned virtually as some stand-up comedians now conduct special shows online.

Despite the effects of the Covid-19 pandemic, we need to encourage young people and aspiring entrepreneurs to succeed.

The first option is to start your own business. Setting up a business is a challenging feat, especially in the wake of the new normal set-up. Regardless, there are two important things to focus on: execution and the ability to filter ideas. The following are guide questions for those who want to venture into the world of business:

What are you passionate about?

Sticking to your passion will ensure that you will go all out to do it no matter what the circumstance is.

Am I good at it?

Aside from having passion, it is important to also reflect if you have the right skills to execute the business successfully.

Is it scalable?

Analyze if your business model is capable to increase sales within given resources.

Can you institutionalize it?

Determine how much of the business is about you, and if you can hire competent people to run it.

Another option is to get a job, which can be also challenging. But, the economy is changing and businesses are adapting to it to create new jobs. It is best to try different approaches to land the job that you want. For example, if you're applying for a web design-related job, consider creating a mock website instead of just submitting a resume. This will make you stand out among the other applicants. Be strategic in taking offers, thinking of long-term and fulfilling careers, putting one’s best foot forward, and learning from every job experience.

To conclude, Abhii shared an inspiring message that he also gave his employees:

“We can look back at 2020 as the year when the pandemic negatively impacted our state of mind, our career, and our lives. Or we can look back at 2020 as the year when we overcame our mental blocks, limitations, and negativity and transformed our careers and lives in ways people could not even imagine. The choice is ours!”

The bottom line: There are plenty of ways for individuals and businesses to thrive in the new normal. It is a matter of thinking one step ahead, being innovative, and being ready to take that next big leap.