How Restaurants Can Use Social Media to Boost Sales
In today’s digital age, social media has become an indispensable tool for businesses, and restaurants are no exception. If your eatery isn’t already harnessing the power of social platforms, you’re missing out on a golden opportunity to connect with existing customers and attract new ones. Let’s dive into how restaurants can effectively use social media to grow their business and drive sales.
Here are 10 things every restaurant should include in the marketing and growth strategy.
#1 Create a strong online presence
Having a website and Google/Yelp reviews is essential, but don’t stop there. Establish a robust social media presence across platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter. Approximately 63 percent of restaurants use social media as their primary advertising method. Be where your customers are!
#2 Showcase Your Brand
Social media allows you to tell your restaurant’s story. Share behind-the-scenes glimpses, highlight your chef’s culinary expertise, and showcase your unique ambiance. Use high-quality images and engaging captions to create an emotional connection with your audience.
#3 Engage Your Audience
Respond promptly to comments, messages, and reviews. Engaging with customers builds trust and loyalty. Encourage user-generated content by running photo contests or asking patrons to share their dining experiences. A satisfied customer’s post can attract others to your establishment.
#4 Leverage Hashtags and Geotags
Use relevant hashtags to increase your visibility. For instance, if you’re a seafood restaurant, include #SeafoodLovers or #FreshCatch in your posts. Geotag your location to help potential diners find you when they search for nearby eateries.
#5 Promote Special Events
Announce daily specials, happy hours, and events on your social channels. Create a sense of urgency by emphasizing limited-time offers. Consider running exclusive promotions for your social media followers to reward their loyalty.
#6 Share Your Menu Creatively
Don’t just post a static menu; make it exciting! Share mouthwatering photos of your signature dishes. Highlight seasonal items, chef’s specials, and customer favorites. Regularly update your menu on social media to keep patrons curious and coming back for more.
#7 Harness Customer Generated Content
Encourage patrons to share their dining experiences by tagging your restaurant in their posts. Repost their content (with permission) and give them credit. User-generated content acts as authentic endorsements and can attract potential customers.
#8 Host Live Events and Q&A Sessions
Go live! Host cooking demos, wine tastings, or virtual tours of your kitchen. Conduct Q&A sessions where patrons can ask questions about your menu, ingredients, or culinary techniques. Live events create a sense of community and allow direct interaction with your audience.
Build the celebrity chef expereince into your restaurant.
#9 Collaborate with Local Online Influencers
Partner with local food bloggers, influencers, or chefs. Their endorsement can introduce your restaurant to a wider audience. Arrange tasting sessions or invite them for a meal. Their positive reviews can significantly impact your credibility.
#10 Track Analytics and Optimize
Use social media analytics tools to monitor your performance. Understand which posts resonate with your audience, peak engagement times, and demographics. Adjust your strategy accordingly to maximize reach and impact.
You should also read our article on How SEO can boost restaurant sales.
A few other resources to look at:
7 reason to use social media in you food business
Operators Guide to Social Media
Why Every Restaurant Should Use Social Media Marketing by Ashlen Wilder
Social Media Marketing for Restaurants: What You Need to Know
Social Media Strategy for Restaurants: 10 Tips for Launching a New Business