So how can you use social media to drive customers through your door, and encourage more online orders, without it being a huge burden on your already busy schedule?
1. Know your platforms.
It’s important to understand the purpose of each social media platform so you can decide which ones will work best for you. So, what is each platform best for?
- Facebook: More casual & informative. Good for starting conversations and getting reviews from locals.
- Instagram: More inspirational. Show off your dishes and gain awareness.
- TikTok: Good for awareness and as a home for fun foodie content, but it can be difficult to target people in your local area.
2. Build trust & engage with your customers.
Fast food and quick service customers can be loyal to local businesses, but are also price-driven and don’t need much excuse to search for alternatives. Create relationships by bringing a little of your own personality to your posts and be open and honest with your customers, this will help if you ever need to make any changes to your menu, pricing or other operational changes.
3. Be picture perfect.
Give customers an excuse to stop scrolling by ensuring your images look as good as possible! You don’t need expensive kit to create scroll-stopping photography either. Modern smartphones take high quality photos and have some creative filter options. All you need to do is consider the lighting and background.
4. Make the most of user-generated content.
From sharing snaps of food to asking for recommendations and leaving reviews, people listen to other people and customer-created content can be a great way to drive brand advocacy as well as footfall. Try sharing your positive reviews, or even reaching out to your followers for feedback on new menu items.
5. Join the conversation.
Social media is all about being social! Make sure you’re getting involved with conversations and engaging with your customers. If someone gives you a great review, say thank you. Taking a couple of seconds to respond will go a long way, and it’ll highlight the review to the rest of your audience – plus the algorithms love any engagements!
Don’t forget to join local community groups too – people are always asking for recommendations of where to eat and drink.
