There are approximately 7,500 restaurants in Toronto. While that number is much lower in smaller Ontario markets, one thing is certain. Where there’s a sizeable population, there are a whole lot of dining options.
If you own an eatery, your competition is fierce. That’s where social media marketing comes in. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram are low-cost and effective tools for spreading the word—and they’ve helped level the playing field for restauranteurs.
If you’re ready to make the most of social media marketing for your restaurant, here are few tips for doing it right…
Work your Instagram
There’s something to the idea that we eat with our eyes first. The sheer volume of social posts with food-related hashtags is proof of that fact. As the most visual platform, Instagram is the perfect place to market your business—one steak, kale salad, or plate of paella at a time.
The first step is having a steady stream of high-quality images to post, but your efforts shouldn’t end there. Research relevant hashtags, experiment with different schedules, connect with food bloggers who have a lot of followers, and consider running contests. Try it all, and keep track of what works!
Choose engagement
Think about your favourite social media accounts. Chances are, they aren’t spamming you with purely-promotional content. There are only so many loud advertisements that the average user can take before they start to get turned off.
At its best, social media marketing is a conversation. Start by asking questions and soliciting opinions—and pop in to reply to responses. If you’re looking for a subtle way to promote your eatery, post user-generated photos and comments so that your diners are centre stage.
Find the best times
Anyone who knows anything about social media marketing will say it: what works for another business may not work for yours. That’s why posting consistently and measuring the results is key. Shares, likes, impressions…they can all provide insight into how your audience is engaging with your brand.
There’s no shortage of studies about the best days and times to post—and some of them are even focused on the restaurant industry. They can provide a useful jumping-off point when you’re testing out what works. That said, if the trends don’t seem right for your business, take them with a grain of salt.
Target the right locations
It’s a simple step, and it can have a big impact. If you’re advertising on Facebook, use your location to target potential customers. Like any brick and mortar business, your restaurant succeeds in part due to its proximity to its customers. That’s true whether they want to sit on the patio, or pick up dinner to go.
With Facebook, you can choose your location to help ensure that people nearby see your ads. If they do, they’re more likely to take advantage of your service—right away.
Keep it up!
If you abandon your accounts, you certainly won’t be the first business owner to do so. That said, forgetting about Facebook for several months because you’re busy (or feeling uninspired) can make a bad impression.
To make sure potential customers know you’re open for business (and thriving), post consistently, engage with your community, and always keep an eye on your analytics so you can adjust your strategy when need be.
LOOKING FOR THE IDEAL SPACE FOR YOUR EATERY? REACH OUT TO LEARN HOW WE CAN HELP SIMPLIFY THE PROCESS!
