Navigating Pitfalls in Establishing a New Eatery: Tips for the Overburdened Foodpreneur
In the thrill of opening a brand-new restaurant, it's essential not to overlook the power of marketing, even before the grand opening. Keeping your business thriving -- especially when the initial excitement subsides -- requires some strategic moves from the get-go. Here are four fundamental marketing strategies to put in place that'll make your restaurant a success, topic of conversation, and a must-visit.
- Claim your territory
Get your restaurant discovered by potential guests before they even step foot inside! People are likely to check Google, Yelp, Apple Maps, TripAdvisor, Facebook, Instagram, and more before deciding where to dine. Keep it up-to-date in the digital world by maintaining and managing your listings across all platforms. You can use handy tools like Marqii to make the process a breeze.
- Hear the applause (and the boos)
Treat every review as a genuine conversation between you and your patrons. Respond to both positive and negative feedback professionally, just as you would in person. This small act of customer service will enhance your online reputation and increase your chances of ranking higher in local search results. Tools like Ovation can help you with that.
- Get guests to cling to your emails
To welcome back one-time customers and develop long-lasting relationships, capturing email addresses is essential. Email marketing campaigns, like weekly newsletters, can encourage repeat visits and become a driving force for your restaurant's success. Make it easy for guests to share their contact info through online ordering, reservation systems, WiFi sign-ups, or loyalty programs.
- Get jump-started
Don't wait until the busy season to address marketing. Spend some time setting up these strategies before your doors open, so you don't find yourself in a rut when things slow down. If you need assistance, reach out to experts like Rev Ciancio, who helps restaurants build guest marketing programs.
Remember: Marketing your restaurant is just as vital as creating a perfect menu or perfecting your service. A well-executed marketing plan will ensure your business flourishes and continues to attract new guests, making every mouthwatering dish, friendly service, and cozy ambiance worth it.
- To capitalize on the diverse platforms people use to discover new restaurants, consider implementing digital marketing strategies that keep your restaurant's information accurate and up-to-date across sites like Google, Yelp, Apple Maps, TripAdvisor, Facebook, Instagram, and more, using tools like Marqii for easier management.
- In the fast-paced world of food-and-drink businesses, harnessing the power of technology to foster meaningful relationships with customers is crucial. By responding professionally to both positive and negative online reviews using tools like Ovation, you can improve your restaurant's online reputation and increase its visibility in local search results, enhancing your overall business performance and lifestyle.
