Monday, 3 December 2012

Use Text Marketing to Provide Holiday Tips from Your Restaurant

Restaurants are surprisingly busy during the holidays, although most people may believe the opposite to be true. Think about it. People are traveling to see family and friends therefore they must stop for a bite along the road or in the airport, right? Or think of all the folks Christmas shopping out there – shopping works up an appetite! Even those who are slaving away in the kitchen, preparing traditional holiday feasts will need to take a break from the kitchen. Restaurants are busier than ever during this time of year, and with all of the hustle and bustle, it’s important for them to establish a solid relationship with their customers. Creating a loyal customer database will carry over into the New Year, leaving your restaurant off to a great start for 2013.

The most effective way to make the most of these next few weeks is to implement a text marketing campaign into your current restaurant marketing plan. Encourage diners to text-in – or opt-in – in order to receive an awesome deal. For example, a discount on their check, a free dessert, or an extra drink. Your customer will be so pleased with the promotion, they will welcome future text messages from your restaurant regarding specials, events and coupons. It’s easy to ensure your restaurant is their choice for dining during this holiday season, as well as making it a favorite for all of those special occasions during next year.

In addition to the common ways of using text marketing in your restaurant, there are a few things you can do that will push your restaurant to that next level. Sometimes, a text marketing campaign isn’t always about providing consumers with a promotion or a discount. However, it is about building the connection between business owner and customer by providing something. That something doesn’t necessarily have to be a money saver in order to be something of value. How about providing your loyal customer database with some holiday cooking tips, inspired by your chef? Or even a cool idea for a dining table centerpiece? Perhaps let everybody know how to prevent the turkey from being dry. Or include a link to a recipe for a healthier version of that tried and true green bean casserole. Mention which flowers are most fitting for a hostess gift, or which candles will last the longest.

Another idea that takes this text marketing idea a step further is allowing customers to submit questions to be answered. What sort of wine is best to pair with a holiday lamb? How many bottles should I buy based on the number of guests attending my holiday party? What is the secret to fluffy mashed potatoes? Using text marketing to interact with your restaurant guests will keep them engaged and connected to your business.

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