Many thanks to Portage Bay Café on 65th for hosting the Seattle Restaurant Alliance November meeting.
We were happy to host Holly Robinson who facilitated an engaging discussion on how to market your business and increase revenue.
Below are five tips Holly recommends to more effectively market your restaurant.
- Optimize your Google My Business listing
When people search for restaurants online, they’re often looking for something nearby and want to know key details like hours, location and menu. This is where your Google My Business (GMB) listing becomes crucial. A fully optimized listing can dramatically increase your visibility on Google Search and Maps.
- Engage on social media (without overthinking it)
You don’t need a full-scale social media campaign to be effective. Start small and focus on two platforms—Instagram and Facebook—where restaurant-goers frequently engage.
- Use email marketing to stay top of mind
Even if you’re a small business, email marketing is one of the most effective ways to build loyalty.
- Leverage local partnerships and events
Your restaurant is part of a larger community. Partnering with local businesses or events can introduce you to new customers while deepening community ties.
- Simplify online ordering and delivery / optimize web
If you’re not already offering online ordering, delivery and/or reservations, this is an essential area to focus on, especially as more customers prefer convenience. Streamlining your online process doesn’t have to be complicated.
For questions about marketing your business, contact Holly Robinson with Fathom35 Consulting at fathom35marketing@gmail.com.
We are also thankful to Donna Mack and Renee Glanville from the Washington Employment Security Department and Kristan Lortz from the King County Workforce Development Council. They gave an informative presentation on state programs restaurants can take advantage of during times of economic hardship.
Below are a few government resources to help you find out if the SharedWork program is right for your business.
- For questions about SharedWork email Renee Glanville at renee.glanville@esd.wa.gov.
Next SRA Meeting:
Our next meeting is the January member meeting on Jan. 8, 2025. Location to be determined.