by AJ Cobb

Created on: March 17, 2008   Last Updated: April 08, 2008

Marketing is a key component to the success of any business and restaurateurs would be wise to recognize the importance of an online marketing strategy. Internet marketing provides the opportunity to reach the greatest number of people for the least amount invested. It's the best bang for your buck!

There are several ways to market your restaurant online. Consider:

Websites

A website is what you make of it. It's your opportunity to present the personality and product of your restaurant. Also the beauty of websites is that they are easily updateable so it's a cinch to keep your online presence fresh and current.

Whether you design your website yourself or work with a professional designer, remember these few key points:

Keep It Simple: Your website should be well-organized, attractive, and error-free. Present the written content with an equal balance of white space so that online viewers are not overwhelmed by blocks of text. Offer useful links to the different services you provide. If you offer catering services, ensure your website has a catering section with sample menus and price lists. And though photographs of your staff, eating area, and/or bar are excellent ways to entice people to visit your establishment, keep the graphics (especially animated graphics) to a minimum.

Know Your Audience: Who is your target market and what appeals to them? Are they looking for wholesome food and good service? Are they of a particular demographic with distinct interests? Design your site to appeal to the people you want to walk through your front door.

Grab Their Attention: Studies have shown that a website has three seconds to spark a person's interest before they will move on. That means sharp marketing and easy access to information.

Maximize Meta Tags: Search engines get their results by looking for meta tags embedded in website design code. Know what key words search engine users are using and then use them yourself in meta tags when designing your website.

Testimonials: Word of mouth is one of the most trusted and simple forms of advertising. Post your clientele's accolades on your website to spread the word about how great your restaurant is.

Which leads us to the next form of online marketing:

Blogs

Simply put, blogs are people writing their thoughts online. Blogs can be found on personal websites or on community websites. Find a restaurant review web site for your town or city and write about your restaurant. Be sure to include a link to your website. Tourist related sites also often offer the opportunity to blog. Keep it personal and real while following the blog's guidelines and you'll find it's the easiest way to market your restaurant online.

Networking with a Twist

Build on the relationships you've formed within your industry by cross-linking: you post their links on your website and they post your link on their websites. Be careful though: ensure that their online presence and message is complimentary to yours.

Does your community have an online restaurant guide? Get your website address posted to it.

Your online presence is one of the most dynamic methods of advertising. Use it to masterfully to market your restaurant and your menu and your business will prosper. Good luck!

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