Back in the last century - when a lot of people thought that all the world's computers were going to explode at the stroke of midnight on December 31st - it was OK to have a 'billboard' website; a site that simply announced who you are and where you are.
It might have given additional information such as your menu and wine list, driving directions and photographs of your lovely interior. If indeed you did have a website in 1999 ...
But now, your guests and potential guests need a lot more than that. They want the latest information about your business. Live entertainment? Well, who's playing tomorrow night? Are they good? Special menus for the holidays? What are they? Can I see photographs of your signature dishes? I'm coming in from out of town - what else can I do in your local area? Do you have any special offers right now?
You have a lot to tell people about and the web is the best way to do it. You can reach a global audience and what's more, it's not expensive and you can add information at any time, day or night.
But can you? Given the line of business I am in, I shouldn't say this, but do you have to wait for days for your web company to update your website? And your web company will tell you, quite rightly, that your website should only be maintained by professionals - professionals who understand things like HTML, browser testing, javascript, and image optimization - and not your thirteen year old nephew who's a whiz 'at computers'.
But by using the various blog softwares available today, you or your staff can tell your viewers about new menu items, events, specials and local happenings easily and simply. You can upload video and music clips, add photographs just minutes after they are taken and generally keep your website fresh and up to date.
To maintain consistency and brand integrity, involve your branding or web company when setting up your blog. After that, it's over to you. Yes, it will take a few moments of your time on a regular basis, but if you have the stamina to run a restaurant, you certainly have the stamina to post at your blog!
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