(ThySistas.com) Like most of us, you’ve probably been raised to believe that if you work hard, anything is possible. While that’s certainly true in many cases, it never hurts to be center stage and have an edge over your competition. This is especially true in the hospitality industry which is arguably over-saturated. Having a solid menu and a well-rounded choice of coffee roasts will never lead you astray, but if you really want to stand out, it’s time to think a bit further out of the box. Here are four unique ways to help your cafe have a leg up on the competition:
First Impressions Count
With the number of cafes in operation in most areas, people who haven’t yet established their regular spot may look to appearance as one of the reasons for patronage. Keeping things tidy and inviting is paramount but you also want to show off some personal flair. A great way to do this is with fabric banners. You can use them to promote your favorite products, showcase upcoming events, or even just as decoration. The point here is to showcase your brand without being over advertorial and banners are naturally eye-catching so they’re a great place to start.
Work To A Theme
We’re not saying that you have to establish an 80s style cafe or dress your wait staff up in animal costumes but an eye-catching theme can go a long way to helping your cafe stand out. Think along the lines of something you love about the area and work with the architecture of your store. More fun-loving themes can definitely be effective but they do place you in a niche market so if you choose to go down that route, make sure you’ll have a large enough customer base to draw from before going all out.
Have A Unique Signature
Almost every cafe has a signature roast or dish so they’re not all that impressive to prospective customers anymore. If you can’t provide food or drink that no one else is doing, find a different way to leave your calling card. Perhaps your signature is the way your tables are set, or maybe you provide unique customer service experiences. Whatever your point of difference is, identify it and promote it in a way that hasn’t been done in your area before, it’ll be much more effective than having your barista commend people on choosing your signature beverage.
Keep A Pet
Ever notice how many successful cafes have a resident feline? Having a pet adds to the warmth of an establishment and makes customers feel more at home, which in turn leads to more business. If you’re not a fan of cats, consider keeping a cafe dog or maybe even a lizard. Pets add enrichment to our lives and opening your cafe (and heart) to a rescue companion can be beneficial to you on a personal level as well as a professional one.
The hospitality industry is brutal so having any advantage is a good thing indeed. Try these tips in your cafe and see how they can help boost sales and expand your customer base. Remember that finding ways to help ensure loyalty is key and always do your best to stand out. These tips will help but if you put your heart and soul into it, the sky and your imagination are the only limits.
Staff Writer; Shelia Moore