Updated May 12, 1 p.m.
In addition to being a serious public health threat, COVID-19 has delivered a huge blow to America’s economy—particularly the small businesses that are its backbone.
JCK has compiled the following list of resources from our site and elsewhere that we hope our readers will find useful in navigating this situation. This page will be updated as the situation develops.
COVID-19 Industry Webinar Schedule
Upcoming Webinars and Virtual Events
The JCK show has compiled industry webinars and virtual events related to navigating the challenges of the coronavirus all in one place.
Articles From JCKonline
Jewelry Industry Cancellations, Closings, Reschedulings, Reopenings
JCK’s regularly updated list on how COVID-19 is affecting stores and industry events.
Here’s How to Make Jewelry Try-Ons Safer in Stores
Jewelers need to formulate (and practice) sales tactics that don’t involve touching—or even coming close to—their customers.
The Jewelry District, Episode 18: Guest Rhett Outten
The owner of Croghan’s Jewel Box in Charleston, S.C., discusses how she used social media to keep her business afloat during lockdown and what precautions she’s taking now that her store has reopened.
It’s the Perfect Time to Stop Ignoring TikTok
The app was downloaded 315 million times in the first quarter and has exploded in popularity in the United States since the quarantines began.
JCK Webinar Tackles How to Prepare for Post-COVID-19 Recovery
The April 30 session, sponsored by Jewelers Mutual, shared strategies for messaging and marketing during a crisis, industry resources for jewelers, and fall trends.
The Jewelry District, Episode 17: Guest Abe Sherman
Abe Sherman, founder and CEO of Buyers Intelligence Group, offers advice to jewelers while their store are closed, talks about ways to manage their finances, and discusses what the post-COVID-19 jewelry world might look like.
The Best Advice From Industry Webinars
There has been an explosion of webinars advising jewelers on how to survive the current crisis. We’ve compiled some top tips.
How to Conduct a Virtual Engagement Ring Consultation
Engagement ring sales don’t stop because of a pandemic. Learn how to sell via video teleconferencing if you’re working remotely. It’s easier than you may think!
The Jewelry District, Episode 16: Guest Sherry Smith
On a special edition of JCK’s podcast, Sherry Smith, director of business development at Edge Retail Academy, gives tips and guidance for jewelers on how to manage COVID-19, from what loans they should apply for to what the future may hold.
How to Apply for Those Paycheck Protection Loans
Under the Paycheck Protection Program, if you don’t fire your employees, you can get your loan completely forgiven.
7 Things You Should Know About Getting an SBA Loan
The Small Business Association is requiring less paperwork, fewer preconditions, and is processing the loans sooner. Plus, the first $10,000 will likely be free.
Protecting a Jewelry Store Against Crime During COVID-19
If you’re closing for a long period of time, you need to take extra precautions, warns the Jewelers’ Security Alliance.
Why It’s Time to Talk With Your Landlord
Worried about not being able to pay your rent? Experts say landlords are more than willing to make a deal.
What Should You Be Posting on Social Media Now?
Four ways to authentically connect with customers riddled with anxiety.
Should You Apply for Business Interruption Insurance?
Insurance companies will almost certainly reject your claim—though it’s possible that Congress might step in and help.
Why “I’m Scared—Here’s a Sale” Isn’t a Great Retail Strategy
The industry’s most visible and savvy jewelry marketing and sales consultants give their tips.
5 Ways to Stay in Contact With Working-From-Home Employees
Human connection and routine are sanity savers during quarantine!
Coping With Crisis
From 2002: An employer’s reaction to a calamity can affect not only the employees’ well-being but also that of the business.
What Does Hand Sanitizer Do to Our Jewelry?
At a time when hand sanitizer is an absolute must, experts weigh in on how to keep your jewelry in the best condition possible.
Life During Quar-Time: Why Hanging On May Pay Off for Jewelers
When the COVID-19 crisis ends, brick-and-mortar stores could reap the benefits.
Jewelers in Quarantine: Designers Send Out Messages of Love and Support
As designers and small brands retreat to their homes, many are sending out lovely, empathetic letters to followers.
Reopening Resources
Jewelers of America’s Back to Business Toolkit
Jewelers Vigilance Committee’s Best Practices to Avoid Legal Liability During Reopening
The National Retail Federation’s Reopening Checklist
Antwerp’s Protocols for Reopening a Diamond Business
Tips on How to Reopen Your Business
RetailWire: Should Face Masks Be Mandatory for Shoppers?
Articles From Other Publications
State Tax Filing Guidelines for Coronavirus
Forgivable Paycheck Loan Or Tax Credit: You Can’t Claim Both, Which Is Better?
A Small Business Banker’s Advice About PPP Loans
How Loan Forgiveness Works Under the Paycheck Protection Program
4 Steps to Get Your Loan Forgiven
What You Should Do After Receiving a PPP Loan
Other Options Beyond the Paycheck Protection Program
5 Things to Know About the New Coronavirus Paid Leave Law
Rent Abatements and Other Relief for COVID-19 Business Disruptions
11 Options If Your Business Can’t Pay Its Bills
Can’t Pay Off Your Credit Card Due to Coronavirus? Your Bank May Be Able to Help.
The Big List of COVID-19 Financial Assistance Programs for Small Businesses By State
As Business Moves Online, Jeweler Warns About Check Fraud
Brand Marketing Through the Coronavirus Crisis
How Companies Should Communicate About COVID-19
5 Tips for Businesses During Coronavirus
Jewelers’ Tips for Working From Home
How to Be More Resilient During the Pandemic
Industry and Retail Resources
Jewelers of America’s Coronavirus Resource Guide
Edge Retail Academy’s Survival Tips for Retailers
Jewelers Vigilance Committee’s COVID-19 Resources
Responsible Jewellery Council’s COVID-19 Resource Page
Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers’ COVID-19 Resources
InStore Resource Center for Jewelers
American Gem Society: Helpful Resources
Punchmark’s Jeweler Survival Kit podcast
SCORE’s Coronavirus Resource Hub
Small Business Administration’s Small Business Guidance & Loan Resources
National Retail Federation’s Coronavirus Resources
National Federation of Independent Business’s Small Business Resources
U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Coronavirus Small Business Guide
Recorded Webinars
American Gem Society: “Overcoming Current Challenges and Preparing for the Future”
InStore: Management and Communication Through the Crisis
InStore: “Managing Through The Crisis: Human Resource Concerns”
InStore: “Managing Through the COVID-19 Crisis for Jewelers: The Digital Marketing Response”
InStore: “Managing Through the Crisis: How To Address Your Financials and Marketing”
InStore: “Managing Through the Crisis: What To Do With Your Inventory And Your Shop”
InStore: “Managing through the Crisis—What’s Your Long-Term Plan?”
InStore: “Getting Back to Work: The New Rules of Security”
Jewelers of America: “Retail, Now and Then”
Jewelers of America: “How to Safely Reopen Your Jewelry Business”
Jewelers of America: “Best Practices for Training and Utilizing Staff During COVID-19”
Jewelers of America: “Protecting Your Store”
Jewelers of America: “Coronavirus: No Social (Media) Distancing Required”
Jewelers of America: “Coronavirus Outbreak: Stress Management and COVID-19”
Jewelers of America: “A Framework for Tackling Legal Issues”
Jewelers of America: “10 Tactical Ways to Grow Your Business During COVID-19”
Jewelers of America: “Coronavirus Outbreak: Employment Law and Business Issues”
Jewelers of America: “Use Social Platforms to Bond with Customers During Tough Times”
Jewelers of America: “Keeping Your Business Safe and Secure During the COVID-19 Outbreak”
Jewelers of America: “Coronavirus Outbreak: Best Practices for Processing Payments and Dealing with Disputes”
Jewelers of America: “7 Critical Marketing Adjustments to Combat a Recession”
Jewelers of America: “Families First and CARES Acts: What Employers Need to Know”
Jewelers of America: “Small Business Administration Briefing”
Jewelers Vigilance Committee: “Coronavirus Outbreak: A Framework for Tackling Legal Issues”
Manufacturing Jewelers and Suppliers of America: “You Have Insurance and Legal Questions, We Have Guidance”
Plumb Club: “Navigating the New Financial, Legal, and HR Landscape”
SCORE: “Coronavirus and Your Small Business: Q&A with SCORE Mentors”
Smithee Group: “Do’s and Don’ts for Digital Marketing”
General COVID-19 Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s COVID-19 page
World Health Organization’s COVID-19 page
Charities
World Health Organization COVID-19 Response Fund
(Image courtesy of New Jersey Department of Homeland Security)
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