Having a digital presence for your business is a non-negotiable in this day and age. Does your business really exist if it is not on the internet? As absurd as that sounds, it does hold some truth. It is the first thing that potential customers turn to to check out your menu and reviews before turning up at your restaurant door. The start-up costs of creating a website for your business is negligible as well, so don’t be afraid to legitimize your business on the internet! If you are still not convinced of the need to have a website, this article will convince you of it’s necessity.
Here’s 4 reasons why you need to set up a restaurant for your business, if you haven’t got one yet!
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1. Make Yourself Heard!
The first step is to provide basic information like your location, operating hours, payment methods and menu to make your restaurant more accessible. Include directions to your location such as the nearest train station or bus station as well. This can all be done by putting an extension of Google Maps at the bottom of your page.
2. Want To Spend Less on Advertising Costs?
Initially, I was hesitant to get my business on the internet too because I felt it was too complicated.
But then I realised how much I would save on advertising costs. Instead of having to print out pamphlets for discounts or engage with local television for commercials, all I had to do was design an infographic and upload it to my website. If you are worried about being not tech savvy, infographics can be easily designed with Canva which offers free pamphlets that are editable.
3. Increase Your Credibility
Although word of mouth is a powerful, we have to consider the people that it doesn’t reach as well. This is where your website and customer testimonials come in. Instead of pasting it on the wall of your restaurant where it won’t see the light of day, posting it on your website gives your restaurant more exposure.
Re-post any newspaper articles your restaurant has been featured in or engage your regulars to leave favourable reviews on your website to build up the prestige of your restaurant. This will make potential customers more likely to visit your restaurant.
4. Create Your Brand Image
The feel of your website is the first impression that potential customers will form of your restaurant. Use colours and images that best represent your restaurant. For example, if your restaurant is a vibrant and fun hang out space for teenagers and kids alike, adorn your website with bright primary colours and striking visuals. If your restaurant leans towards fine dining, the colour white along with your brand colour could very well be sufficient.
Actionable Takeaway.
Of course there is more than just colours and visuals, so engage with web designers in your area to create your restaurant’s website. From my experience, freelancers often offer cheap and quality services, so I would highly recommend engaging with one. However, if you would like to experiment around, Wix and WordPress are the best options.
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