In this business, there are many different ways to promote your restaurant and all are open for your creativity. For example, think about advertising, direct marketing or public relations campaign and remember that at the core of the business is the need to engage socially. To get the best effect from your initiatives you should always remember that this should be a pleasant job for you as well.

You have probably built up a good relationship with certain customers over time and if you feel that you know some that are particularly loyal then you could get them to help you promote your restaurant. Ask them to contribute posts which you can put on your blog, write reviews, be active on their Facebook pages, for example. Not only can this be a great “word-of-mouth” exercise, but it can be very cost effective, for just the cost of an odd appetizer here or there.

Always try and retain the details of a new prospect whenever you can. This should include their e-mail information as well as important other items such as the date of birth and so on. Be prepared to give them something of value in return for this information and understand that it can then be converted into a long-term asset. E-mail marketing is very valuable and you can do a lot with their information.

If you have been able to get e-mail addresses for clients, try and find out the important occasions, such as their birthday. Then you’ll be able to set up what is known as an auto responder which is a system designed to send out messages in advance of the special dates. Offer to give them a free meal and they will invariably come in with a number of their friends as well.

Think about themes. Do a little research online and you will find out that there are special occasions, holidays, “gimmick” days, religious days – some special occasion every week. If you are creative, you will come up with ideas to link your restaurant, a menu item or some copromotion to create interest in the neighborhood.

Promote your restaurant with a PR campaign, especially if you are launching a new menu, welcoming a new master chef or engaging in a charitable affair of some kind. Press release distribution is relatively straightforward and cost effective these days and will invariably result in exposure for you if well presented.

Turn to your neighborhood and see how many media outlets, radio stations or papers are around. Have a good look at these individually and see if they have anyone serving as a food critic or a restaurant reviewer. All you need to do is get in touch with the editor if they seem to be lacking in disregard and they will almost invariably accept your offer to provide them with your expert insight for free. The editor will turn to you whenever he needs help in the future.

In our modern world, social media is very important and if you have a business you must be engaged. Create a Facebook page to promote your restaurant, keep a well maintained blog with current menu item ideas, food news and so on.

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