How Small Businesses Can Respond to a Crisis

The Twin Cities have been in the national spotlight with the increased Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity. It’s been incredibly fraught. Regardless of your view on the politics of the issue, there’s a climate of fear that has tremendous impacts—people are staying home from work, school, and even restaurants and other businesses. 

What’s a Small Business to Do in the Midst of All This? 

Do you keep your head down and get work done? Do you speak up and say something? (If so, what?) How can you make a positive contribution? 

We’ve got a few suggestions of how your organization can respond. This isn’t a debate on politics. It’s simple strategy and common sense for your business, regardless of where you stand politically.

1. No Single Answer

First and foremost, know there is no single answer that’s going to work for everybody. Some businesses are incredibly vocal, some are not. There’s no simple roadmap here.

Example: Many local businesses had to decide whether or not to participate in a state-wide strike. In explaining their decision to stay open (to host a wedding party—”joy must persevere!”) local restaurant FoodSmith acknowledged the difficult decision: “We would kindly request no haze be thrown around to any small business right now.”

2. Take Care of Your People

The primary concern for your business should be your people. Check in with your employees and see how they’re doing. Some might be terrified to come to work, some might be anxious from all the news, and some might not know what’s going on. Give space for people’s individual reactions and be flexible. 

Example: El Destino Market just down the road in West St. Paul gave their employees the option to stay home—and delivered free groceries to them.

3. Know Your Values

How you respond in a situation like this is going to depend on your values as an organization. Some businesses are upfront and vocal. It’s part of their DNA to be loud and proud. Other businesses are not. They’re quiet and behind the scenes. No shade (see #1). But you should lean into who you are as an organization. It should be a natural outgrowth of your mission, values, and brand.

Example: Eco Chico, a local kids resale clothing store, encouraged people to protest with their dollars by supporting local businesses. The message fits their sustainable ethos.

4. Be Positive

Finally, find positive ways to contribute to your community. If you see people hurting, find ways to be part of helping. That could mean donating to a local food shelf like Neighbors Inc. or supporting a fellow local business that’s hurting.

Example: Amore Coffee here in West St. Paul hosted community service projects as a way to give back.

What’s Next

Wherever you stand in this current situation, we hope you and your team stay safe. We look forward to seeing everyone get back to work.