Have you ever heard the phrase “phone eats first?” In 2024, it’s common for a mouthwatering plate of food to be placed in front of a customer, only to have that customer snap a photo on their phone before digging in. This is because we live in a digital age where everything has to be documented. Back in the day, restaurants would rely heavily on word of mouth to bring customers through the door. While word of mouth is still a valid means to attract customers, today, “word of mouth” typically goes by another name: social media.
Social media is the top marketing tactic for food service businesses. While you can’t taste or smell through your phone, beautiful photography and well-written copy can inspire people to walk through your door and try your offering for themselves.
Having the Necessary Social Media Tools, Technology & Expertise is Critical for Success
Social media facilitates direct and immediate communication with customers. Restaurants and other food service purveyors can use these platforms to announce daily specials, upcoming events, and new menu items. Social media has also become a way to respond to customer inquiries, comments, and reviews. This two-way interaction is crucial in today’s market, where customer experience and satisfaction are paramount.
While social media can be a powerful tool in the restaurant world, effectively leveraging social media often requires more than just a basic understanding of how to post content. This is where a specialized agency becomes indispensable.
Though it may seem straightforward to manage social media accounts independently, many food service businesses lack the necessary tools, technology, and industry expertise to engage meaningfully with their audience. This engagement is crucial for increasing brand awareness and driving sales. A professional agency brings a wealth of experience and resources to the table, ensuring that every post is strategically designed to resonate with customers.
Keeping Up with the Ever-Changing Algorithms of Social Media Platforms
Platforms like Instagram and Facebook (Meta) frequently update their algorithms, affecting how and when content is seen by users. You may not be aware that only 1-3% of Followers on Meta business accounts even see your posts. And it’s even less the bigger your business becomes. Facebook and Instagram have become pay-to-play platforms for businesses and unless you are putting money against your posts to boost them, your visibility is very low.
Agencies stay on top of these changes and adjust strategies accordingly to maintain visibility and engagement. They understand the importance of high-quality visuals, consistent branding and timing, which are critical elements that many “do it yourself” efforts often overlook.
Agency’s Ensure Your Social Media Efforts are Successful
While social media is a powerful marketing tool for food service businesses, its potential is best realized through the expertise of a professional agency. From staying updated on algorithm changes to employing best practices and understanding local markets and the unique aspects of each platform, an agency ensures that social media efforts are not just performed but are highly effective in achieving business goals. Hiring a local agency that not only knows the digital world but also knows the nuances of where you do business gives you a double-edged advantage over competitors.
