Gratitude is Great for Customer Engagement in Food Service

It’s not just good manners, being thankful is a powerful way to get your marketing efforts out of the gravy boat and boosting year-end restaurant traffic.

“Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings.”
– William Arthur Ward

As we transition menus to comfort-food ingredients and prepare for the holiday season, it’s important to make sure your restaurant’s marketing isn’t just simmering with summer shares–there are plenty of ways to drive traffic and boost customer engagement through December:

Spotlight Your Restaurant Family

1. It’s the season of gratitude, share photos of your dedicated staff
2. Share their stories, favorite dishes, and what makes them proud to work with you
3. Consider a “Meet Our Team” social media series to highlight each individual
4. Pro tip: Tag staff members (with permission) to expand organic reach

Comfort Food Campaign

1. Highlight your most crave-worthy winter dishes
2. Create short-form videos showing these dishes being prepared or plated
3. Share the story behind the inspiration, family recipes, or special ingredient
4. Consider offering “sides and a dessert” takeout packages to tap into and support home cooks in your community

Holiday Preparation Previews

1. Create anticipation with behind-the-scenes videos
2. Share taste-testing moments with staff
3. Post “sneak peek” photos of your decorations of new holiday dishes
4. Consider doing a live stream kitchen tour showing holiday preparations

Engagement Boosters

1. Host a “Favorite Holiday Food Memory” contest on social media
2. Create shareable gift card promotions for holiday gifting
3. Don’t forget the 9-to-5 crowd–create holiday packages for office parties
4. Leverage Black Friday excitement with your own offer

Community Connection

1. Partner with local charities for food drives
2. Share your restaurant, staff, and community’s holiday traditions
3. Highlight your location for local holiday gatherings
4. Consider a “12 Days of Christmas” special featuring daily deals

Remember: Authentic, personal content often performs best. Show the real people and genuine moments behind your restaurant – it’s what makes your establishment special and creates emotional, lasting connections with customers.

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