When I first got our restaurant’s online ordering system up and running, I felt like I’d just climbed a mountain. But then I realized that getting folks to use the system was a whole new hike. Here’s how I tackled it, and what I learned along the way.
🤣 “ I felt like the digital Pied Piper, leading a parade of eager diners with tantalizing photos and irresistible deals, guiding them straight to our online ordering portal.” Quote of the day
Signs Everywhere
Once online ordering was in place, I put signs up everywhere highlighting the online ordering option. I placed them where you couldn’t miss them – right at the entrance, on the tables, by the counter.
Each one had a QR code that zapped customes straight to our ordering site, where they could order and pay, regardless of whether they wanted a takeaway or were dining at a table.
The easy visibility of these signs caught our customers’ attention and the web ordering statistics showed an increasing number of online orders.
Sweetening the Deal
Who doesn’t love a good deal?
I created some online-only specials – think free delivery or a surprise appetizer on the house. I also threw in some time-sensitive offers to nudge those on-the-fence customers to give us a try.
Additionally, I optimized our online menu, making it easier and more attractive for mobile users to order online.
Diving Into Social Media
I started posting everything – the steam coming off a hot dish, our chef’s secret sauce being poured, you name it. And I didn’t just post; I got chatty with our followers, sharing stories about our dishes and throwing in some sweet deals for anyone ordering online.
Getting Personal with Emails
I got smart with it, sending thank-you notes to first-timers and dropping exclusive coupons to our regulars. And every so often, I’d send out a newsletter filled with the latest from our kitchen, maybe a story about where we source our ingredients or a teaser about a new dish. I just kept it friendly and personal, like writing to a friend.
Looking back, there were bumps along the way, but figuring out how to connect with our customers outside of the restaurant walls has been pretty rewarding.
Before deciding on an online ordering system, take a look at our straightforward guide. It outlines the range of options available, and helps you to select an online ordering platform that is perfect for your restaurant. Remember, choosing the best online ordering platform is crucial for your success.
