The Yelp app is a great tool, and using how to use it properly can have great benefits for your business! The first step is to use the Yelp for Business Owners page on the Yelp website to add and claim ownership of your restaurant’s page. Alternatively, your business could already have a Yelp page if customers have been leaving reviews. In this case, you’ll just need to claim the page as your own!
Your Business Profile
Yelp gives you a ton of options for your business’s profile. Make sure that you fill out all of the sections available to ensure that your business ranks in search results. Include information about the products you offer to customers. Additionally, you can add your menu and current offers and promotions to the page.
How to Take Food Photos
Adding photos of the food you serve to your page can be a great way to let customers know what’s available. Make sure that the dishes your photograph are plated nicely, and use natural light for the best results. You can also include photos of the inside of your restaurant to give you customers an idea of the environment.
Let Your Customers Know You’re on Yelp
While asking customers directly for reviews can feel a little pushy, it never hurts to let them know that your business has a Yelp page. You can add a link on your restaurant’s website and app, or add a small sign in your window or near your check-out counter. You can also ask customers who have already reviewed your business on Facebook, Google, or TripAdvisor if they would be willing to add their review to your Yelp page, as well.
How to Deal with Negative Yelp Reviews
One of the most helpful features of the app is the ability to view reviews from other customers. If your restaurant is getting good reviews, this is fantastic! App users will see the glowing compliments your business has earned and be more likely to stop by and see for themselves. But what happens if your business gets a negative review?
Yelp prioritizes businesses who actively manage their pages in search results. Responding promptly to reviews will help your business attract more traffic via Yelp. Thank reviewers for positive reviews, and respond politely to negative ones. Let customers know that you’re taking their thoughts into consideration without being defensive! Customers that know you’re actively trying to improve service are the ones most likely to give your business another shot.
We hope that these tips are helpful to you as you navigate promoting your business with Yelp!
