The Importance of Connecting With Customers

Bonji Hot Takes: Volume 67

The Importance of Connection

Welcome back to the Bonji Hot Takes! We hope your week has been filled with success and happiness. Sorry for missing Thursday, but we are here for Friday! With the weekend is near but we hope to offer some value before this week closes and you are enjoying the time off. Customers want to connect. In fact, 86% of customers say want to be in some form of communication with the restaurants that they frequently visit. This is a major shift in the restaurant world. Not all that long ago, customers would simply be ecstatic with knowing an employee's name. However, with changing times comes changing expectations. Customers want to feel as if they are a part of the business and restaurant. They want to be heard and responded to. Thus, we'll dive into some ways you can connect with customers on a daily basis!

Why Connect With Customers In recent years, the restaurant industry has seen a significant increase in the importance of communication with customers. While good food is still the primary factor that draws customers to a restaurant, the quality of communication can play a significant role in creating a loyal customer base. Build relationships Communication allows restaurants to build a relationship with their customers. When customers feel heard and understood, they are more likely to return to the restaurant. Whether it's through social media, email marketing, or face-to-face communication, restaurants can establish a rapport with their customers by engaging with them on a personal level. Provide better service Effective communication can also help restaurants provide better service to their customers. By listening to feedback and addressing concerns promptly, restaurants can improve the overall dining experience. Whether it's responding to negative reviews or taking suggestions for menu items, effective communication allows restaurants to provide personalized service that meets the needs of their customers. Increase customer loyalty Finally, effective communication can increase customer loyalty. When customers feel valued and appreciated, they are more likely to return to a restaurant. By staying in touch with customers through social media, email, and other channels, restaurants can keep their brand top-of-mind and build a community of loyal customers. How To Connect With Customers So, what can restaurants do to connect with customers? Use social media Social media is a powerful tool for restaurants to connect with their customers. Restaurants can use social media to share updates, promotions, and special events with their followers. By responding to comments and direct messages, restaurants can engage with customers on a personal level. This is especially true for the younger generation. Social media is their connection to the world, to the news, and to what they love… including your restaurant! Send regular email updates Email marketing is another effective way for restaurants to stay in touch with their customers. By sending regular updates on menu items, specials, and upcoming events, restaurants can keep their brand top of mind. Through research, it was found that over 60% of customers prefer email marketing! Offer loyalty programs Loyalty programs are an excellent way for restaurants to reward their customers for their loyalty. Whether it's through a points-based system or exclusive discounts, loyalty programs can help restaurants create a community of loyal customers. Respond to feedback Finally, restaurants should always respond to customer feedback. Whether it's positive or negative, responding to feedback shows customers that their opinions are valued. By addressing concerns promptly, restaurants can improve the overall dining experience and build a loyal customer base. In conclusion, effective communication is essential for restaurants that want to build relationships with their customers, provide better service, and increase customer loyalty. By using social media, email marketing, loyalty programs, and responding to feedback, restaurants can connect with their customers on a personal level and build a community of loyal customers.