5 Ways Local Restaurants Can Utilize Social Media
If you've ever logged on to Facebook, you've probably seen the endless array of videos and pictures from restaurants all over the world showcasing their specialty food and drink selections. From unique, mouthwatering desserts to craft-fully designed cappuccinos, the internet is overflowing with people showing off their unique treats. So how can small, local restaurants capitalize on this social media trend?
1. Encourage people to "check-in" at your restaurant. A great form of free advertising is when consumers "check-in" to your location on social media and share with all of their friends the great experience they had. Make sure that your business has a location on google that people can use this feature with, and consider setting up a promotion that encourages customers to use it.
2. Pictures speak louder than words. Instead of trying to explain to customers why they should visit your business, show them! Take quality images of your best food creations and post them to your social media accounts instead of just boring pictures of your building. Try using time lapse videos to show customers how different items are made to make their experience feel more personal.
3. Be more conversational and less advertorial. People love social media because it gives them a space to join communities that share similar interest to them. Use social media as a space to interact with customers, asking them about what their favorite menu items are and what new items they would love to see added. Engage your customers in conversations about charities that your business is passionate about supporting to show that your restaurant is not solely focused on profits. Social media is a free platform to connect with customers, so make sure you are engaging with your target market!
4. Show off your hometown pride. As a local restaurant, it can be hard to compete against the large chains that customers are familiar and comfortable with. One way social media can truly benefit a small, local restaurant is by providing an easy and cheap platform in which they can show how they are benefitting the local community. People love supporting their community, so use social media to talk about how your business is helping others around you too. Support local sports teams and encourage fans to stop by after the game. Stay connected with events going on at local schools and community centers and connect your business with the families and friends that attend.
5. Find what makes you special. Unlike large corporate chains, local businesses have the ability to customize their products to the local market, making their specialty food and drinks feel more special. Find your specialty item that the community loves and be sure to emphasize it on social media. Create a story around your brand and how others can take part. Make the community feel as though each product was specifically designed for them and they'll be more likely to share your posts and visit your location.
Social media can serve as a great tool for small businesses with a small marketing budget. As a free source that has the ability to reach millions, sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are the perfect place for small, local restaurants to connect with their customers, encourage new customers to visit ,and showcase what makes the business truly unique.
1. Encourage people to "check-in" at your restaurant. A great form of free advertising is when consumers "check-in" to your location on social media and share with all of their friends the great experience they had. Make sure that your business has a location on google that people can use this feature with, and consider setting up a promotion that encourages customers to use it.
2. Pictures speak louder than words. Instead of trying to explain to customers why they should visit your business, show them! Take quality images of your best food creations and post them to your social media accounts instead of just boring pictures of your building. Try using time lapse videos to show customers how different items are made to make their experience feel more personal.
3. Be more conversational and less advertorial. People love social media because it gives them a space to join communities that share similar interest to them. Use social media as a space to interact with customers, asking them about what their favorite menu items are and what new items they would love to see added. Engage your customers in conversations about charities that your business is passionate about supporting to show that your restaurant is not solely focused on profits. Social media is a free platform to connect with customers, so make sure you are engaging with your target market!
4. Show off your hometown pride. As a local restaurant, it can be hard to compete against the large chains that customers are familiar and comfortable with. One way social media can truly benefit a small, local restaurant is by providing an easy and cheap platform in which they can show how they are benefitting the local community. People love supporting their community, so use social media to talk about how your business is helping others around you too. Support local sports teams and encourage fans to stop by after the game. Stay connected with events going on at local schools and community centers and connect your business with the families and friends that attend.
5. Find what makes you special. Unlike large corporate chains, local businesses have the ability to customize their products to the local market, making their specialty food and drinks feel more special. Find your specialty item that the community loves and be sure to emphasize it on social media. Create a story around your brand and how others can take part. Make the community feel as though each product was specifically designed for them and they'll be more likely to share your posts and visit your location.
Social media can serve as a great tool for small businesses with a small marketing budget. As a free source that has the ability to reach millions, sites such as Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter are the perfect place for small, local restaurants to connect with their customers, encourage new customers to visit ,and showcase what makes the business truly unique.
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