The New Normal Image Identity

What does the Image identity of the 'New Normal' Look like?

"We have normal. As you move outside of your comfort zone, what was once the unknown and frightening becomes your new normal.."  -Robin Sharma 

People and businesses are adapting to change. It is the 'New Normal'. 

The 'New Normal' focuses on what's changed and it requires a new mindset. We have to be prepared for the surge in the emergence of the changed behavior and decorum. It has never been more important that you keep moving forward.... intentionally. Unprecedented times require change and continuous upskilling. It is essential to get reconnected with the important things in life even in greater ways. 

Social Distancing has changed how we commonly interact.

Image Credit: Dreamstime

Keep Social Distancing but stay connected

The two words 'Social Distancing' have changed our lives. No large gatherings, keep your distance from others because being close is the way the virus is spread.

Staying distant from each other feels so abnormal. As humans, we are so used to show that we care by staying closer to them. But the way we show care with social distancing is by moving further and keep at a distance (at least 1 meter or 6 feet) and by not moving closer to them.

According to body language experts research, there are four (4) personal-space levels that people use under normal circumstances:

• Intimate distance: less than an inch to 18 inches
• Personal distance: 1.5 to 4 feet.
• Social distance: 4 to 12 feet.
• Public distance: from 12 to 25 feet. 

According to experts, the average social distance is 6 to 7 feet, and recent guidance from health professionals is that we should keep 6 feet apart from each other. But because keeping people at a social distance is what we typically do for people we don't know or who are stranger or merely an acquaintance, and inviting people into our personal space is what we do for friends and loved ones, social distancing makes us feel like we are not being friendly. We do understand and concern the health implications. But because it is different from our normal way of life, it gives us the feeling that we shouldn't interact and the two words 'social distancing' makes us feel that we are isolated from each other. 

STAYING healthy and safe has become a significant part of modern living, even more so during these difficult times as the world grapple with the current COVID-19 pandemic. Cleaning supplies, Face Masks, Gloves, and Toilet papers have become collectors' items. Retail Food and Restaurants have become auto responders in the last mile of e-fulfillment deliveries. Business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives have become experts in Facebook live as like late-night talk show hosts. 

Wearing protective Face Masks has become the New Norm essential Etiquette and the Face Masks are ESSENTIALS to the New Normal Wardrobe. It is not only for health, but it is as well about KINDNESS and CONSIDERATION to others. 

Image Credit: Freepik
The New Norm Accessory Essentials- Wearing Appropriate Face Mask and always sanitize hands and the surface area where you work.

Image Credit: Freepik

Male Office Executive wearing a surgical face mask is an essential accessory for  the covid19

 new norm behaviour and lifestyle.

                 

The concept of 'Social distancing' and the new no handshake etiquette would push everyone to quickly adapt to using an online platform for their business and/or remote working from home. This pandemic fear changed our world, and it has greatly impacted people's mindset and behavior, and there's no turning back. The real-time, right-now online environment means your company's message can easily get lost in the sheer volume of information overload. Your brand has mere seconds to communicate and make an impact on you and how distinct you or your business are. Clarity and focus are key to project the right image identity. To stand out, you have to help your audience grasp what you or your brand is about through a split second of the 'right first impressions.' Your message and content have to be simple, clear, and razor focus. 

The image projection of the 'New Normal' has the following essential identity:

(i) Authentic: Use actions to prove that you truly CARE. Your audience has access to data and information to make informed decisions. Thus your authenticity will help to build trust and win brand loyalty.

(ii) Kindness: Show kindness from the heart. Think of your audience as human rather than just a business transaction or deal. Show empathy. 

(iii) Humility: Be modest and inspire others to succeed. Don't just seek for self-delight like 'WIIFM' (What is it for  me?" Instead should think "WIIFT" (What is it for them?")

(iv) Educate & Empower: Instead of just selling, educate your audience with knowledge to empower them.

(v)  Build Relationships: People buy from people they like and trust. Get connected and be engaged in conversations with your audience.

(vi) Be Relevant: The online and offline markets are overwhelmed with choices. Simplify your offerings and focus on being relevant to your audience and ask the question" Am I offering what they truly NEED?"

(vii) Healthy Image will NOT be compromised: New Normal would become very savvy in their  'Personal Hygiene' - from personal care to personal space. They will  learn the 'Marie Kondo' way of decluttering from their wardrobe to their home and workspace, 

(vii) Don't Assume they know: Have a consistent Image Identity across your brand from the way you look to the way you act and to the way you communicate.

The New Normal is not just about 'YOU' or project 'Personal Branding' with nice colour combinations in the way you dress or a nice Corporate profile.  The changing world we are facing is seeking honesty, true value, humility, kindness, civility and it shows through the ABC (Appearance & Attitude, behavior, communication) of your Image Identity that you care. 

As educators, coaches, entrepreneurs, and business owners, we are resilient and my heart is with you as we navigate through this difficult time. Even while under self-quarantine, let's stay connected, don't isolate. Be of value to your team, community around you, and support one another and we shall get this through together. 

I wish everyone good health and safety during this uncertain time and please continue to follow recommendations from your local government and health authorities. 

Be safe everyone.