If you want to get the most traffic, the most views and more people flocking to your business, it’s time to look at some ways on how you can boost customer engagement.
1 - Google Listing
A Google listing is a feature which Google offers free of charge, also known as Google My Business - it provides a snapshot of your business, much like a synopsis. If you’re not already on it, GMB provides anyone who searches for your business with a full listing and customisable (by you) profile that can include pictures, ratings, phone numbers and a brief overview of the restaurant.
You also want to get your full menu on there too, with pricing. Much like social media, there is also a message option for customers to get in touch. A great addition to GMB is that it provides analytics, such as the number of clicks, calls and bookings - make sure you connect your map address to the listing too!
2 - Facebook
Having a strong social media presence is essential in today’s market, as this is the place where your customers gather. When making a Facebook page there are many variables to consider as a means for ensuring the best results. This can include simple things which might get overlooked, such as the category you list your business in, the profile picture used and the cover photo.
Facebook also gives you the option to add your ordering app, external links and menu to the page. As you’re directly communicating with your customer base on Facebook, you can advertise for free, as well as pay for targeted promotions. This could include running competitions where followers must share your page to go in the draw.
3 - Instagram
Like Facebook, Instagram provides another form of advertising and customer engagement. There’s less customisability in terms of how to place information etc, but Instagram can be highly effective. Obviously, Instagram is all about the images, therefore it’s a must to have delicious looking meals for customers to crave. The key here is getting the page views, making sure people are looking at your posts.
Key points to remember - keep your profile picture the same across all social media platforms, include hashtags in your bio, ensure you’ve switched to a business account and engage with your customers by following them and liking their posts.
4 - Website
Just because you have a strong social media presence, doesn’t mean you should neglect your website. Unlike social media, your website is completely in your control, which means you can go crazy with it. Further to this, Search Engine Optimisation is completely in your hands here, therefore you must use the right keywords and text underneath each image.
Every website needs the essentials to make full use of the platform, which include:
- Full menu with pricing
- Contact information
- Links to social media
- Operating hours
- Promotions
5 - Loyalty Apps
Loyal customers are the cornerstone of a successful business. App it up! A loyalty app will require more effort and money on your part in the initial phase of developing the program, but can provide numerous capabilities.
The app can have multiple features, including online ordering, and provides customers with an easy-to-use method of earning points, winning prizes or getting discounts. Consider looking at competitors’ apps and what they offer - it’s important to ensure the rewards are achievable and reachable in a decent amount of time.
The app can be used to track customer feedback and service, target customers through geolocation and organise email campaigns. Keep in mind that all staff should be trained to be fluent with the app and its usage.
5 - Delivery and Table Ordering
Table ordering and delivery are two things restaurants have seen a spike in since the pandemic hit. People enjoy the convenience of ordering from their devices, even if they’re already sitting in the restaurant.
The goal here is to entice customers to order more food, which can be done by including tempting photos, promos, recommendation of the week and custom receipts. You could also offer the opportunity to purchase merchandise, or your own signature sauces.
7 - Online Reviews
Online reviews are extremely important in attracting new customers, who come across your listing intentionally, or otherwise. Gone are the days of people relying on food critics, when every diner can provide that service.
A response to a good review will encourage other customers to post a review as well - have a dedicated email address that will notify you, every time a new review rolls in.
Making the effort to respond to your reviews - good or bad - shows a commitment to providing good service, so don’t forget to do that. In the event of a bad review, address the customer politely, apologise and offer potential ways to resolve the issue, or prevent it happening again.