Best Ways for Small Restaurants to Obtain and Use Organic Social Proof
Introduction
Running a small restaurant can be a tough gig. You're not only battling with the big names but also trying to attract new customers and keep them coming back. One powerful tool that can help you out is social proof. But what is social proof, and how can you use it to your advantage? Let's dive in and explore five fantastic ways to get and use social proof for your restaurant.
What is Social Proof?
Social proof is when people copy the actions of others. It's the idea that if others are doing something, it must be good. For restaurants, this means showing potential customers that others love your place, so they should too!
1. Encourage Customer Reviews
One of the easiest ways to get social proof is by encouraging your happy customers to leave reviews. Positive reviews can make a huge difference in how potential customers view your restaurant. Ask your regulars to leave a review on Google, Yelp, or Facebook.
Example: Place a small sign at the checkout counter that says, "Loved your meal? Leave us a review on Yelp!" You can also send a friendly follow-up email after a customer's visit, thanking them for dining with you and asking for a review.
2. Share User-Generated Content
User-generated content (UGC) is gold for social proof. When customers post photos of their meals at your restaurant, it shows others that people love your food. Encourage your customers to share their dining experiences on social media and tag your restaurant.
Example: Create a branded hashtag for your restaurant, like #BestPizzaInTown. Run a monthly contest where customers who use the hashtag and tag your restaurant can win a free meal or a discount. Share the best photos on your social media pages to show off your happy customers.
3. Leverage Influencer Collaborations
Partnering with local influencers can give your restaurant a big boost. Influencers already have a loyal following that trusts their recommendations. Find local food bloggers or social media influencers and invite them to try your restaurant.
Example: Offer a free meal to a local food influencer in exchange for a review or a social media post. Make sure they tag your restaurant and use your branded hashtag. This can expose your restaurant to a whole new audience.
4. Showcase Customer Testimonials
Testimonials are a powerful form of social proof. Display customer quotes on your website, social media, and even in your restaurant. When potential customers see that others have had great experiences, they’re more likely to give your place a try.
Example: Create a "Customer Spotlight" post once a week on your social media pages. Share a photo of a happy customer along with a quote from their review. It’s a great way to build trust and showcase real experiences.
5. Host Community Events
Hosting events can bring people together and create buzz around your restaurant. Whether it's a live music night, a cooking class, or a charity event, these gatherings show that your restaurant is a vital part of the community.
Example: Plan a monthly event like a "Taco Tuesday Night" with live music. Promote the event on social media and encourage attendees to share their experiences. Use the event to collect testimonials and photos that you can share later.
Final Thoughts
Building social proof for your small restaurant doesn't have to be complicated. By encouraging reviews, sharing user-generated content, collaborating with influencers, showcasing testimonials, and hosting events, you can create a buzz that attracts new customers.