Competition is fierce in the hospitality industry with bars and restaurants always looking for new ways to attract and retain customers. While customer service and quality of food and drink come at the top of any list, the modern-day customer is always on the lookout for establishments that offer that little bit extra. One of the things you could do to make customers feel a little bit more at home is to add some personal touches to your establishment that will help keep customers invested in the place. So with that in mind, we thought we would have a look at some of the things you can do to enhance the customer experience.
Monthly Newsletters or Magazines
One good thing you can do is to provide customers with news on the month’s events to help pique their interest. A good way to do this is to produce a monthly magazine that is both informative and insightful. There is a popular misconception that people will always use the internet to get information. However, this is far from the truth as people will often engage more readily with the written format. Going to the trouble of printing magazines in the UK will show customers that you are proud of what you have to offer. A magazine carefully placed on tables is not only informative but will also provide discussion points for people, while also advertising forthcoming events people may not have been aware of. While there is no doubt about the power of online posting, a printed magazine is much more personal.
Photos and Memorabilia
Another way to personalise your bar or restaurant is by adding photos or items of memorabilia that show the history of the place. These could be pictures of guests and staff or of the building itself and how it has changed over the years. The main reason to do this is to give the place a more welcoming and familiar feel. There is nothing worse than walking into an establishment that while it may be smart and chic, feels clinical and cold. Customers like to be put at their ease and being in a homely environment will certainly do that.
Get to Know Your Customers
One personal touch that many establishments overlook is the art of communication. By that, we mean spending time getting to know your customer base. We understand that in a busy restaurant or bar staff won’t have half an hour to talk to every client but just finding a bit out about regulars can be advantageous. Things like recognising a birthday with a free bottle of wine or a cake can go a long way when it comes to ensuring customers feel appreciated.
Little Extras at the End of a Meal
In the case of restaurants, little extras to go with a post-meal coffee are always a nice personal touch. These can be something simple like a biscuit or even say a shot glass filled with chocolates or sweets. Things like this come at minimal cost but can help make the evening a bit more special.
Adding personality to your business will help give it a friendly and welcoming vibe that will ensure customers return time and time and help make your establishment the success you want it to be.
