How to Build Customer Loyalty in Your Restaurant

Building customer loyalty for a restaurant depends on the emotional connection the customer develops for the restaurant. Depending on the demographic of the restaurant there are several ways this can be achieved.

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1.       Being there for the customer.

Especially returning ones. Remembering their first and last name, their partner's name, children, job, their preferences on food and drinks any detail that indicates there is an interest for them as a individual  and engage them in conversation, this will show appreciation for the customer and make them fell part of your family.

2.       Small gestures of goodwill (Not discounts).

Giving a regular client a free espresso with his lunch, a free desert on someone's birthday. This will go a long way and the customer will feel appreciated for coming to the restaurant.

Be conscious of who you give special treatment. make sure your gestures are distributed fairly and keep track of your regular customers.

3.       Getting involved with the community.

 Approach local artist in your area an promote them in your restaurant. This will give the customer a different experience when dining, increasing loyalty and sales. Invite an artist to present his work to your customer or a musician to perform weekly.

4.       Use social networks to promote your restaurant.

Inform your customers of a new special dish or offers that may come. Keep them updated with professional photos of your product. Include news that relates to your community. Reply quickly to any questions your customers may have.

Instagram deserves a special mention, a lot of restaurant use this app to keep their loyal customers updated on news  of their restaurants, thanks to its easy access to photos and location system.

5.       Value your staff.

They are your best sale representatives inside and outside your restaurant. Get to know them better and create a bond with them. It only takes a little attentive conversation and positive reinforcement. When they feel personally committed to you and your restaurant, they will pass that commitment on to friends and family.

Good food and great service are of course the best ways to keep customers coming back. With that in mind, these ideas can add an extra boost to a restaurant customer loyalty.