We’ve got some upcoming posts on “why your business needs…” where we are going to talk more about the benefits of Facebook and the like and would love some more of your input. Let’s talk soon.

Before things like Facebook and Twitter, it was difficult for small, local businesses to get the word out about what’s going on and why people might want to visit the business. We are huge proponents of the new age of publicity and communication that allows us to have two-way conversations with our customers. It’s not the be all and end all, though.

We’ve expanded our campaigns to traditional channels as well. We send out traditional press releases to the local press, we keep in touch with local bloggers who talk about a variety of topics related to the restaurant biz and we advertise on a local radio station.

Is it working? You betcha! Week over week our business has improved from the previous year, but even more importantly, our customers know that they can reach out in a variety of ways and know that we are listening and acting on their suggestions and ideas.

Thanks again for the shout-out… it was a terrific surprise for a dreary Monday afternoon!

Sherri (Flat Iron Cafe’s “Marketing Chick”)