Every customer has an experience at a restaurant and customer service is the heart of it all. Every interaction with the customer matters from the moment they set foot and to where they make their exit. In this blog, let us take a look at great examples of customer service and why it is important, and how you can improve your game. Let’s get to it.
Why is Restaurant Customer Service Important?
Everyone knows that the restaurant business is very competitive, and customer service is one of the primary aspects of success. There is a lot more that needs to be done in order to foster a positive experience for customers and for them to look favorably at the restaurant other than the food provided. Providing quality customer service will ensure customer retention, new customers, and build a name for the restaurant.
Key Reasons Customer Service Matters:
Customer Retention:
A restaurant’s most loyal customers are repeat clients. Diners go back more often when they believe they are valued and treated properly. Attention from staff, proper interaction, and a smile makes customers feel relatable and appreciated, and make those who visit once make the place their regular joint.
Positive Word of Mouth:
When a customer is completely satisfied with a service, they often share their reviews with those within their circle and even online. Since an excited recommendation can entice new diners, word of mouth marketing has spread further with the help of social media and review sites. However, a single bad experience has the potential of ruining one’s reputation.
Competitive Advantage:
Outstanding customer service makes a restuarant stand out from other competitors. With varying options available, a diner is likely to consider the treatment they will receive and the menu. For a restaurant to earn that extra benefit amidst so many competitors, they need to go the extra mile for their guests.
Increased Revenue:
When the service is more than satisfactory, customers are much more willing to leave bigger tips and spend on drinks and desserts that will earn the company higher profits. Considering that the service exceeded the customer’s expectations, they are more willing to take the dive on margin consuming items. Therefore, by providing enhanced service, additional spending is guaranteed.
Crafting a Brand with Staying Power:
The experience at a restaurant defines its branding. It is these brand experiences that provide a restaurant with an indisputable reputation for service and therefore care. This brand over time does attract more customers and also good employees who are proud to work there.
Restaurant Call Services
Nowadays, a good calling service system is a must for any chain or restaurant. It does matter how you pick up the phone whether it is to make a reservation, ask a question, or call in for a takeout.
Best Practices for Effective Call Services:
- Train Your Staff: The personnel behind the phone should be polite, competent, and very efficient.
- Make Use of Technology: Automated booking and order tracking systems should be used.
- Respond to Calls Quickly: Customers can be annoyed by being put on hold, which costs business.
- Give Clients Attention: Responses can be tailored to each customer and their needs.
When done correctly, the phone etiquette a restaurant employs serves as the first point of contact that creates a relationship that the customer will want to further pursue.
10 Examples of Great Restaurant Customer Service
1. Strictly Maintain The Right Staff Approach
Remember that your team is the brand. Provide training to ensure that:
- They know how to welcome customers.
- They respect and attend to all customers.
- They are observant but not intrusive.
Tip: Have them practice interpersonal skills through role plays.
2. Make An Extra Effort
A wonderful way to establish a long lasting impression with your clients is by performing little acts of kindness. An example is:
- Free drinks or snacks.
- Cooking a meal a certain way to cater a customer’s taste.
Tip: Allow your staff to make simple changes that can better service a client.
3. Treat VIP Customers Right
Offer discounts for loyal clientele or customers with special activities like:
- First choice on a table.
- First choice for desserts.
- Personalised notes for appreciation.
Tip: Keep an eye on regular customers and reward them through a loyalty program to increase their visit frequency.
4. Add an Element of Surprise
Make your loyal customers happy by doing the following activities:
- Putting a small item in the bill.
- Unplanned shows or performances.
- Giving a discount for all new clients.
5. Provide Themed Experiences on Special Occasions
Have a special menu and decoration for seasons and holidays. For instance:
- Heart shaped sweets during Valentines.
- Spiced pumpkin dishes during Autumn.
Tip: Seasonal experiences create a reason for customers to return often.
6. Educate on New Techniques Of Payment
Enhance the existing system with:
- Paying without a card.
- Using smartphones to pay.
- Splitting bills for group orders.
Tip: Ease of making payments contributes to a better customer experience.
7.Train Personnel to Manage Complaints in a Professional
Manner Every complaint to a business is an opportunity to improve in this modern world. One way to develop the business is having every staff member learn:
- To listen with intent.
- To apologize when necessary.
- Get the problem solved quickly.
Tip: Get back to the unsatisfied customers and make sure that you addressed their concern.
8. Be Attentive and Fast
Consider paying attention to the details and being in speed in service to the clients. For example:
- Promptly refill drinks.
- Do not overstay but check in frequently.
9. Appreciate and Reward
the Loyal Clients Your biggest marketers are your most loyal clients. You can let them know they matter through:
- Giving special offers.
- Birthday personalized messages.
- Starting a VIP client program.
10. Better Management of Walk-In Clients
Using Waitlists Many busy restaurants do tend to have problems with walk-ins. Some facilities can include:
- Digital waitlist to keep clients updated.
- Provide a nice waiting area.
- Give better wait time estimates.
Tip: Organizing and clarifying everything can make the experience better for the staff as well as the customers.
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Conclusion
Excellent customer service in a restaurant is ensuring a blend of etiquette, innovation and personalization. Incorporating some of the few tips above will ensure your dining customers return over and over again.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you define excellent customer service at a restaurant?
What 3 things should be done best in order to ensure customer service is excellent?
Personalization: Use the ability to address the needs of the specific client.
Effectiveness: Speed and precision in service delivery is critical.
