Let’s face it: social media is where everyone hangs out these days. Whether they’re scrolling through Instagram, liking posts on Facebook, or binge-watching TikTok, your customers are right there. But here’s the big question—are you making it easy for them to order your food while they’re scrolling?
By linking your online food ordering system to your social media pages, you’re creating a hassle-free way for customers to see your food and order it instantly. If you’re not doing this yet, don’t worry. This guide will show you how to set it up and make the most of it without breaking a sweat.
Why Bother Linking Social Media to Your Online Ordering System?
Imagine someone scrolling through Instagram and sees your drool-worthy post of a sizzling curry or cheesy pizza. They’re hungry and want to order, but there’s no easy way to do it. Chances are, they’ll move on to something else.
By integrating your restaurant ordering system with social media, you’re making it super easy for people to order from you.
Here’s why this is a no-brainer:
- It’s Easy for Customers: They see your food, they click, they order. No jumping through hoops.
- You Get More Eyes on Your Food: Social media boosts your visibility, especially when you post regularly.
- Happy Customers = Loyal Customers: A quick and easy process keeps them coming back.
- More Sales, Less Effort: You’re turning casual browsers into paying customers with a few clicks.
Step 1: Choose the Right Online Ordering System
Not all online food ordering systems are built the same. You’ll want one that works well with social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and even TikTok.
Look for These Features:
- Social Media Integration: Make sure the system lets you link directly to your profiles or embed your menu.
- Mobile-Friendly: Most people order food from their phones, so your system needs to work perfectly on smaller screens.
- Custom Branding: You want the platform to match your restaurant’s vibe, not look generic.
- Analytics Tools: These help you track how many orders come through social media, so you know what’s working.
Pro Tip: Check out what restaurants that have won a Restaurant award are using. They’re often ahead of the game when it comes to these things.
Step 2: Make It Easy to Order Through Social Media
Once you’ve got the right ordering system, it’s time to set it up on your social media accounts. The goal is to make ordering as simple as clicking a button.
Here’s How to Do It on Popular Platforms:
- Instagram:
- Add an “Order Now” button to your profile.
- Put a link to your menu in your bio with a clear call-to-action like, “Craving something tasty? Order here!”
- Facebook:
- Use the “Shop Now” or “Order Food” button on your page.
- Pin a post with a link to your ordering system so it’s always visible.
- TikTok:
- Add a link to your menu in your bio.
- Work with local influencers to show off your food and mention how to order.
- X (formerly Twitter):
- Share ordering links with mouth-watering captions like, “Your dinner plans just got sorted. Order now!”
Step 3: Get Creative with Your Social Media Content
Now that everything’s set up, it’s time to let people know they can order online. Social media is all about grabbing attention, so don’t be shy about showing off your food and reminding people how easy it is to order.
Content Ideas That Work:
- Behind-the-Scenes Fun: Share videos of your chefs prepping popular dishes. Add captions like, “Fancy this? Order straight from our bio link!”
- Customer Photos: Ask your customers to tag you in their foodie pics. Repost their photos with a link to your menu.
- Limited-Time Offers: Post deals like, “Order through Instagram this weekend and get 10% off!”
SEO Tip: Use keywords like “#OnlineFoodOrderingSystem” or “#OrderFoodOnline” in your posts and captions. They’ll help you show up in search results.
Step 4: Run Social Media Ads That Drive Orders
If you’re serious about growing your online orders, paid ads on social media can work wonders. These ads let you target local customers who are most likely to order from you.
Quick Tips for Great Ads:
- Focus on Your Area: Target people nearby who are already searching for “takeaways near me” or “order food online.”
- Use Great Photos: People eat with their eyes first. Make sure your pictures are irresistible.
- Clear Call-to-Action: Use phrases like, “Order now for doorstep delivery!” or “Click to enjoy tonight’s dinner without cooking!”
Step 5: Keep an Eye on What’s Working
Your job doesn’t end once you’ve set everything up. Keep track of how your social media integration is performing.
Check These Metrics Regularly:
- Clicks on Your Links: Are people clicking on your “Order Now” buttons?
- Orders Completed: How many clicks actually lead to orders?
- Engagement: Which posts get the most likes, shares, and comments?
If something’s working well, double down on it. If it’s not, tweak your approach until you find what clicks (pun intended).
Step 6: Use Customer Feedback to Improve
Your customers are your best critics. Ask them what they think about the ordering process and take their feedback seriously.
For example, if customers mention that your menu link is hard to find, move it to a more obvious spot. Then, let everyone know you’ve made things easier in your next post.
Step 7: Celebrate Your Wins
If your restaurant has won a Restaurant award or been recognised for outstanding food, shout it from the rooftops! Awards add credibility and make new customers curious to try your food.
How to Share Awards on Social Media:
- Post pictures of the award with captions like, “Our award-winning dishes are just a click away. Order online now!”
- Create a story or reel showing what went into winning the award, ending with an easy way to order.
Ready to Boost Your Orders?
Getting your online food ordering system connected to your social media might sound like a lot of work, but it’s a game-changer for your restaurant. You’re not just making it easier for people to order—you’re giving your customers a reason to keep coming back.
Start small, keep experimenting, and always put your customers first. Pretty soon, you’ll see the difference in your orders, engagement, and overall growth. Now, let’s get those clicks rolling!
