The culinary field thrives off customers and experiences, so it becomes imperative that they get customers to visit their restaurant. But, in an age with apps that deliver food to your door, it’s only natural that you look at apps and websites that help your business out too.
While traditional marketing is still an option for some, most restaurants will find that being on a digital front will help them more. Digital marketing for restaurants can be confusing but that is why we are here to help you make the perfect next step.
1. Write content that you would love to read
Being in the food industry yourself, you probably have already read multiple articles, blogs, interviews or news about what’s doing well in the food world. Understand that people wait for content they actually love reading and that is relatable to them, not just any content that is given to them.
2. Develop your own style
While you are probably trying to replicate what your favourite businesses do online, it is important for the customers to see your personal style in your digital content so they may have an automatic connect with your brand and not see you as similar to someone else. Branding goes a long way in establishing your own style.
3. Get people to check you out as they check in
When it comes to a destination driven call-to-action on social media, the Check-In feature is probably one worth having. Millions of people online check out where their friends have checked in, so make sure you encourage your customers that come to the restaurant to check in after they’re done with a meal.
4. Flaunt your menu far and wide
In a generation that has everything everywhere, it does help individuals decide where they want to go if you have some unique items on your menu. Posting your menu on food listing apps like Zomato, Dine-in, etc, and social media, helps people check you out from far and wide, making the journey worth it.
Here are some Digital Marketing Tools that can help your restaurant grow.
5. Get feedback and work with it
A great way to get engagement on your page would be to get feedback and reviews from customers – whether it is good, bad or ugly. Respond to this feedback online, have a conversation, there is always scope for a business to improve or get even better and your customer can get you there. Remember to share the reviews on your social media pages for all your target audiences to view.
6. In with the new, out with the old
It’s possible that you have a set menu at your restaurant and the locals have already picked their favourite on the list but there is no reason why you should not switch it up once in a while for festivals or anniversaries. So go on, flaunt new things that happen at your restaurant on social media, using high quality & tempting images and people will come flocking in to check you out. Instagram and Insta Stories are a great way to connect with foodies around your restaurant.
7. Get with the times
Be socially aware of what is happening, the digital world picks up trends that could change even every week. If you have the chance to ride on a trend, pick the one that will relate effectively to your business. Try to put out fun campaigns and creatives of trending topics, just the way Starbucks brewed on GOT using coffee related puns.
8. Make photos and videos your best friend
Pictures and videos speak a thousand words but when it comes to food make that ten thousand. Photo and video content define what a customer is going to get in front of them. It also helps them understand if your food and space are worth the visit. Great shots of food are good enough to stimulate the senses. Post them on social media because great aesthetic feeds, gain not only followers on social media but in real life too. Try to use hashtags of the device the photos and videos were shot on along with your posts (#shotoniphonex, #shotononeplus, etc) to increase brand awareness.
9. Sharing is more than just caring
Sharing on social media is perhaps even better than real life. Get your family and friends to share your social media so other people may find your business. You can also notify customers when they walk into your restaurant or have a sign at the restaurant where people can easily get to know more about the social media channels you’re active on.
10. A great deal is worth a good customer
A great way to get engagement on your page would be to get feedback and reviews from customers – whether it is good, bad or ugly. Respond to this feedback online, have a conversation, there is always scope for a business to improve or get even better and your customer can get you there. Remember to share the reviews on your social media pages for all your target audiences to view.
We live in a world where deals are everything, people are constantly on the lookout for the perfect reason to have their money well spent. You can also be smart about these deals and let more people know about your offers, coupon codes, exciting seasonal gift vouchers and more. Run offer campaigns exclusive to social media which are valid for a limited period, to increase your brand reach.
Now that you know the basics of Digital marketing for restaurants, go forth and gain your own following.
If you are also on the lookout for someone to show you the ropes or handle your digital marketing for restaurants? We at Let’s Goo Social, an international digital marketing company, can help you reach your goal in the culinary world.
Click the button below and let us know how we can help you add the right ingredients to your business.
