Instructions

1

Develop and maintain a mailing list to allow communication with your customers. Set out a sign-up sheet at the host's stand, or put out a sign-up card with each bill. If the customer is happy with his food and the service, he can simply write in his name and email address to be added to the list. An up-to-date list of contacts is crucial for sending out regular marketing updates to customers.
2

Create an Internet presence. Many consumers research restaurant options online; capture their interest with a strong Web presence. Create profiles on social media sites like Facebook and Twitter, and build a website that is optimized for search engines. List your restaurant in local guides and invite food and travel bloggers to visit and write a review.
3

Send out marketing emails. If your restaurant offers daily specials, send frequent emails to announce both the special and other interesting news. Put your restaurant name, menu and food items in front of customers on a daily basis to keep your establishment at the top of their minds. Even if customers do not come in that day, your emails can pique their interest for further visits.
4

Take out an advertisement in the Yellow Pages. For customers who still look up restaurant options in a phone book, a great ad can make a difference. Design an ad that will stand out from the others in the Restaurant section, and highlight your unique selling point. You might use the type of food, prices or location as your headline to draw in customers, and make the name and contact information secondary.
5

Market to existing customers. Train your in-house staff to give the best customer service possible, from the host to the busboy. Ensure that your diners are welcomed, introduced to the specials and offered personal recommendations. Make sure all in-house displays communicate your brand for a cohesive experience. For loyal customers, send out special discounts to thank them for their patronage and encourage repeat business. When your regular diners are happy, they are more likely to recommend your restaurant to friends and family, giving you free marketing.