Social media has become all the rage, so whether you like it or not, you need to create an online presence for your restaurant/bar! When searching for information about restaurants, people flock to a business’ social media accounts and look to see what people are saying about that business online. Certain platforms, specifically Instagram, are integral for your business because of the sheer amount of posts daily centered on food and beverages. This just confirms that your customers are probably talking about you and your restaurant whether you have a social media presence or not. Here are some tips to make your social media accounts better:
1) At the very least, have a Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram account for your business
2) Important information (hours, location, etc.) are updated and easily accessible on the profile
3) Include a link to your website on all accounts
4) Use engagement posts, not just promotional posts:
By this, I mean you need to act as if you’re talking to someone who has just walked into your restaurant. Ask them a question or for an opinion on something about your restaurant and this will facilitate a conversation that provides you with the information you want, while also allowing for your customers to interact with each other.
5) Make sure to take advantage of the live stream tool on each platform
Live streams give you the opportunity to connect with your customers and show them the behind the scenes of your restaurant or do live demonstrations with your chefs and bartenders.
I know that some of us feel that social media is taking over people’s lives for the worse, but in order for a restaurant to survive, people need to be able to take to social media in search for more information on your business. Social media’s domineering presence is something you should take advantage of and will only make your business stronger.