In hospitality, business success means paying attention to several factors, such as quality, value, & branding. Learn the secrets of managing a successful restaurant.
As the economy continues to flounder and consumers reign in their spending, many restaurants in Accra are proving to be surprisingly resilient. How has this sector of the hospitality industry managed to weather the economic storm? The answer is simple: good restaurant management. Here are a few tried and true tips on how to effectively manage a restaurant business:
Pay Attention to the Quality of the Customer Experience
Many restaurateurs are focused on the quality of the experience their customers have when they come to their establishments. This basically means the quality of the food, service, and overall level of hospitality. By providing a satisfying and enjoyable experience, restaurant owners are giving their customers the opportunity to break away from all the economic and social dreariness currently consuming the world.
Hire the Right Restaurant Staff and Keep Them Motivated
One of the most important factors in customer experience is the level of service the customer receives. This translates into having qualified and courteous staff on hand. Though hiring good restaurant employees may be a challenge, especially for someone who is running a franchise business, it pays to screen job applicants. The candidates’ prior job experience and general background are important factors to consider.
An effective restaurant manager will also look for ways to keep employees happy and motivated by setting in place performance measurements and incentives and actively seeking employee feedback.
Create the Perception of Value at the Restaurant
These days, consumers are looking for ways to save money, to stretch their hard-earned dollars as far as they will go, and they need a lot more incentive to spend them on eating out. One successful strategy used by restaurant owners is to focus on their customers’ perception of value. But communicating to customers that they are getting a good value (in terms of food quality, portioning, or ambiance) while at the same time not cheapening the perception of the business is actually a delicate balancing act that requires sound pricing strategy, menu planning, and marketing.
Several restaurants have begun bundling meals, increasing portion size, or adding extras, like a free dessert, to add value while avoiding the appearance of discounting.
Use Promotions to Bring Customers to the Restaurant
Many restaurant owners are also trying to lure their customers with a variety of promotions and specials. Some examples include: having a night where kids eat for free or for a small charge, having a theme night, or setting aside slower times of the day or week for special value deals or unique events. Other restaurant owners are experimenting with cooking classes, dietary workshops, or birthday promotions.
Use the Internet to Advertise the Restaurant
The Internet can be an effective and often cheap means of advertising a small business, and many successful restaurant owners are taking full advantage of this medium. Many restaurateurs rely on a conscientious email marketing plan, they make sure to list their business on the popular online directories, and they maintain a clear, up-to-date, and informative website.
Emphasize the Restaurant’s Unique Brand:
The most successful restaurant owners understand the experience and the occasions that their business is positioned for and are focused on building up those areas. This is the process of building a restaurant’s brand.
In closing, effective restaurant management means maintaining a delicate balance among several key areas. By investing the time and money in the previously suggested tips, restaurant owners will greatly increase their chances of running a successful business.
