Tips for Happy Holiday Catering
Tips for Happy Holiday Catering
With office parties and family gatherings galore, holiday catering needs are on the rise this time of year. In fact, the 4th quarter of the year is when catering sales are at their highest—and why not? The name of the game come November and December is offering guests a showstopping meal without having to lift a finger. That’s why it’s time for your restaurant to really amp up its catering game with these key tips for happy holiday catering.
Spread the Word
Whether you have an existing marketing plan in place for your catering options or you’re completely new to the catering game, it’s important to get the word out about your holiday offerings. Tap into the methods you typically use to market your business, such as social media, direct mail, in-store ads, or email newsletters. Boast about your holiday catering menu and be explicit about quantities and pricing. And be sure to offer a phone number that’s highly visible where a customer can reach a human being—and catering expert.
Your menu should have a unique holiday twist to it, even if it’s just changing the names of a few dishes or offering seasonal desserts and beverages. Customers hosting a party or family gathering love the idea of a theme, especially one they didn’t have to break a sweat over. Once your food options are solidified, go wild posting photos to your social media channels.
If you’ve previously turned your nose up at the idea of table tents, think again: These tiny triangles are a marketing powerhouse for restaurants, and an ideal spot to promote your holiday catering options. Additional signage throughout your restaurant is also key.
Consider passing flyers out to neighboring businesses as well, who might be in the market for nearby catering spots to help with corporate events. Stop by tree-lighting ceremonies, holiday pop-up shops, or parades as well and pass out food samples from your catering menu. You never know who might be in the market for a catered holiday meal.
Spread the Smiles
Finally, and most importantly, keep your staff smiling. We’re all feeling the pressure of the holidays, and no one wants his or her workplace to be an added stress. While your staffers are busy working additional hours and going the extra mile for your business, make sure they know how much you appreciate all of their hard work. If it’s in the budget, host a holiday party for your employees to let loose with their coworkers. Reward them with bonuses or post-holiday vacation time. Check out our article, 11 Tips to Keep Staff Happy Over the Holidays to learn even more creative ways to de-stress your staff.
For more quick and easy marketing tips, check The Pantry every week—we’re always cooking up something new. And as the holidays close in, keep in mind how much stress can be relieved with a bit of extra cash on hand. Stop by ARF Financial to read all about our #1-rated loan products, including our innovative Flex Pay loan or a line-of-credit. Need cash in a snap? No problem. We can get you approved in as little as 24 hours and funded in just 3 days. We’d love to help fund your catering success this season!