Happy Home, Happy Business: ‘We’re All Hurting’

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At the best of times, running a business is an uphill battle, an endless struggle to innovate ideas that put you ahead of the competition and continually turn a profit. In a post-COVID-19 world however, those challenges have not only grown in scale, but morphed into something entirely unrecognizable. In this series, we talk to expat-entrepreneurs and find out what they’re doing to remain successful in business, and happy at home.For those who were outside of China when COVID-19 infections hit their peak in the country, it appeared to be a risky gamble for those within our borders to stay put. Nevertheless, old hands in Beijing had an innate sense of China pulling through faster than anyone expected. And their hunch turned out to be right.

As the virus now ravages the rest of the world, Beijing might arguably be the safest place for anyone to be. But it didn’t always appear that way, especially for business owners who have had to deal with an unprecedented loss in business. Moreover, it was even harder for those in industries that cannot simply be ‘Waimai’d’ to semi-recovery. And for Dave Hanssen, this could not be more true.

As a photographer, Hanssen is in the business of capturing beautiful moments for families and other clients in the city he calls home. But what happens when a photographer’s lens is not enough to ward off the consequences of a global health crisis and a struggling business?

How long have you and your family been in China and what made you decide to move this far East?

We have been in Beijing since 2008, came over for work.

What do you do and how long have you been in business?

I’m a photographer and owner of Dave’s Studio.

What were you and your family’s initial reactions when COVID-19 first hit the news?

We canceled our travel plans for Chinese New Year because of COVID-19. We didn’t want to risk traveling with our two boys.

What were your expectations as far as the virus and its effect on daily life and business in Beijing?

We were not expecting the schools to be shut down as long as they have been. It’s been extremely difficult for many businesses, including ours.

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What has been the reality for you and your family?

Our reality has turned into seldom leaving our apartment complex, online classes and homework with the kids. It’s been fun spending extra time with the kids and finishing small projects around the house that we never had time for before.

How has your business been affected by the current situation?

Our business has almost completely stopped. We are taking a few clients by appointment.

What form of support have you received from the expat community here in Beijing for both your family’s and business’s well-being?

It’s mainly been through WeChat groups, trying to figure out when life and business can get back to normal.

Do you believe the current situation will permanently change the face of business in Beijing? If so, why and how? If not, then why?

I think, unfortunately, not every business is going to make it through this time. I’m even worried that my business might not be able to survive. However, I have no doubt that Beijing will survive this.

Moving forward, what are some of the plans you have set in place for your business to ensure it is not adversely affected by such an unexpected situation?

We have been contacting older clients. We have also been pushing WeChat marketing and have made some portrait packages with discounts that can be purchased now and used this summer.

Has the current situation deterred you from continuing to be a part of the business landscape in Beijing or are you here to stay?

I’m here to stay as long I’m able to support my family and my staff. If we are forced to close up shop, we will need to reevaluate our situation.

What advice would you give to other business owners in Beijing at this time?

Everyone is going to take a ‘haircut’ during this virus, it’s unavoidable. Now’s a good time to brainstorm how to hit the ground running when all this is over.

How can other expat families show their support for expat business owners in Beijing?

Keep supporting local businesses. We’re all hurting and we need your business to survive.

Any words of encouragement or hope for the international community as a whole in Beijing?

As I see the global news, and the COVID-19 virus spread, I can’t help but feel I’m lucky to be living in probably the safest city in the world right now with my family. It sucks having to be under quarantine, but let’s all try to look at the bright side by enjoying the time with our families.

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Photos: Courtesy of Dave Hansse

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