Like it or not, COVID-19 is hurting businesses in more ways than one in multiple different industries. For some people, the fear isn’t there and it’s business as usual. Then for others, people are either skeptical or fearful or what could be coming.
Either way, the coronavirus has already been affected many of our local businesses. I spoke to a handful business owners around town and they told me that this pandemic has started to impact them. Some have serious concerns on how long this will last and if they can make it through unscathed.
For me, I’m still continuing to dine out but understand if there are some who would rather not.
So how can we all help support our restaurants during this time? There are many ways.
1.) Write Online Reviews or Recommendations
If you’re just sitting at home watching Netflix, why not multi-task and help a restaurant out online?
Hop on to Facebook, Yelp, Google and be generous with your online reviews. Be a self-appointed ambassador for your favorite restaurants. While you may not buy into review sites, there are more positives than negatives that come from good reviews businesses get. And the best thing about it? It’s free to do and takes such little time.
Recent studies show that 92% of consumers read online reviews before making a purchase. Restaurants make up for 18% of all reviews on Yelp which is the largest in any business category. There is no hiding the importance that online reviews have and Yelp makes up a big portion of that.
While you’re at it, give recommendations on your social sites to places you love. Word of mouth is the best and done in the privacy of your own home.
2.) Order Take Out or Delivery
Some restaurants offer delivery through third party services. You could give those a try. Or if you like saving money and doing it yourself, order carryout and avoid the big crowds. Carryout will not just help save you money but the restaurants too as they don’t have to pay commissions and fees for delivery. Some restaurants are taking it a step further and offering curbside service.
If you do choose delivery though, check the restaurant’s webpage or Facebook to see if the delivery service is approved by them. I’ve seen too many times when some delivery services offer delivery for a restaurant without the owner’s knowledge or consent.
3.) Buy Gift Cards
You can directly support restaurants by purchasing gifts cards to help boost their profits now and give you a chance to eat later when you’re available to.
4.) Follow Your Favorite Restaurant’s Social Media
Many restaurants are starting to offer some good deals to boost business. This is your chance to help increase their social media presence along with seeing what all is out there in terms of specials. Then when you’re ready to go visit said place, check in online to help spread the word of a place you’re frequenting. You may not believe it but your friends will see this and possibly head there as well.
5.) Use Local Restaurants/Food Trucks to Handle Your Catering
A big boost in revenue for restaurants and food trucks can come from catering. If you are in need of a big breakfast or lunch for a work or church event, why not use a local restaurant or caterer? Too many times, I’ve seen places use big national chains cause it’s easy. It can be just as easy to call someone local to do the same thing if not better.
Happy Dining,
Eddy
To nominate your restaurant or event to be considered for a review, please email us with your restaurant information. We are always open to suggestions.
