With competition in the restaurant industry hotting up, it’s important for businesses to respond to the needs of their customers. Every customer has the ability to create sales for you. We’ve compiled a list of some of the key things to consider, and included them below.
How a customer finds you.
In this technology-focused age, people are relying more heavily than ever on the internet for advice. This can be for suggestions about where to go for food, entertainment, relaxation etc. Although word-of-mouth remains the most effective marketing tool, having a powerful online presence is vital for a company to succeed. Ensuring your restaurant appears at the top of a search list increases the likelihood of people coming to you. Using the internet to showcase your products (pictures of your food, your environment, your team) generates interest and sparks curiosity. Opening yourself up to feedback and reviews creates confidence in your product. If other people are saying they enjoyed their time with you, it can influence the decision of prospective customers.
How a customer sees you.
How easy was it to book a table? Is your restaurant clean? Are your staff happy and willing to help? Is the food timely, hot (where appropriate), well-presented and, most importantly, delicious?
Thinking about first impressions, and working to create lasting impressions, is a surefire way to build the brand you want and target the customers you want to attract.
How a customer feels about their experience.
Remember that the service AND the product are important in creating a positive experience for the customer. If both are good, it’ll increase the chance that they will return. If they’ve had an enjoyable encounter with your restaurant, they are more likely to recommend you to others and generate future sales for you.
How a customer is treated after their visit.
If a customer leaves a negative review on TripAdvisor, or on a Facebook page, remember that they are within their rights to do so. This is a great opportunity for you to learn from their feedback and try to make things right. If their experience was a bad one, but you show that you are keen to resolve their issues, they may return. And if they DO come back, and they enjoy themselves, you have the chance to create a real brand-advocate who will look to influence those around them.
In Summary
It’s important to keep the customer in mind at every stage of their journey with your restaurant. This begins before they’ve found you, but never really ends. Treating negative situations as learning opportunities, and really showing that you care about your customers will keep people coming back and generate sales for you on an ongoing basis
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