216. Opening a Restaurant: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Boost Your Restaurant Sales: 5 Menu Engineering Design Secrets Revealed! Unlock the secrets to skyrocketing your restaurant sales with these 5 menu design tips! Dive deep into the fascinating world of menu psychology, pricing strategies, and visual cues that can significantly impact your average ticket and overall revenue. In this episode of the Making Dough Show, we unveil the power of descriptive language to tantalize taste buds, strategic layout techniques to highlight high-profit items, and color theory to capture attention. Plus, learn why data analysis is crucial for optimizing your menu offerings and satisfying customer preferences. Whether you run an upscale restaurant or a fast-food joint, these proven strategies will help you maximize profits and create a memorable dining experience for your customers. Don't miss out on this opportunity to revolutionize your menu design and take your restaurant to new heights! Subscribe now for more valuable insights, and share your own menu design success stories in the comments below. Let's make some dough together and elevate your restaurant business to unprecedented levels of success! Download for FREE: 12 Genius Ways Chat GPT Can Transform Your Restaurant Business- FREE PDF https://mds.mykajabi.com/12-ways-chatGPT-can-transform-your-restaurant-business Watch: Restaurant Owner Top Tips to Successfully Resolve Business Conflicts https://youtu.be/Qg7Q1D5vAQU Watch: Customer Service Secrets: Surpass Expectation | Restaurant Owner Tips https://youtu.be/rMpjQn4XSSQ LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​#restaurantmanagement​#restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​#makingdoughshow

Download for FREE: Restaurant Business Plan | Free PDF https://mds.mykajabi.com/RestaurantBusinessPlan Watch: Opening a Restaurant: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid https://youtu.be/ffVyRNhF6cE Watch: Restaurant Business Plan | 3 Reasons Your Restaurant Needs It, plus a free PDF to get you started! https://youtu.be/5ix5P_tUomM 3 Key Elements of a Successful Restaurant Business Opening a restaurant is an adventure filled with excitement and challenges. But before you set sail, you need a map to navigate the treacherous waters of the food industry. That map? Your restaurant business plan. Today, we'll dive into the three non-negotiable elements that must be included in your business plan to captivate investors, secure financing, and pave the way for success. Let's get straight to the essence, no fluff, just the crucial components you need to focus on. **1. Market Analysis and Concept Clarity**: First up, your business plan must showcase a thorough market analysis and a clear, compelling restaurant concept. This means understanding your target demographic, the competition, and current market trends. A well-defined concept that aligns with your market analysis demonstrates to investors that you're not shooting in the dark; you know exactly who your customers are and how to outshine the competition. This section should answer why the market needs your restaurant and how you plan to meet that need uniquely. **2. Detailed Financial Projections**: The heart of your business plan lies in its financial projections. This section should include startup costs, projected income statements, cash flow estimates, and a break-even analysis. Realism is key here; overly optimistic projections can be a red flag for potential investors. These numbers show that you've crunched the data and understand not just the costs of starting your restaurant, but also the financial path to profitability. It’s crucial to justify your assumptions with industry benchmarks and your market analysis. **3. Marketing and Growth Strategy**: Finally, your business plan must outline a robust marketing and growth strategy. This isn't just about how you plan to attract customers initially but also how you intend to retain them and scale your business. Detail your pre-launch marketing plan, ongoing promotional tactics, customer loyalty programs, and any plans for future expansion. This section demonstrates your vision for not just launching a restaurant, but growing it into a thriving business. Your restaurant business plan is more than a document; it's a roadmap to success, a pitch to investors, and a guide for your entrepreneurial journey.  **Question of the Day**: Which of these three elements do you feel most confident about, and which one seems the most challenging? Share your thoughts in the comments below. Engaging with your feedback not only helps us tailor our content but also fosters a community of passionate entrepreneurs who learn and grow together. Remember to hit like and subscribe for more no-nonsense advice on making your restaurant dream a reality. Let's cook up some success together! LET'S CONNECT:  SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​  CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​ #restaurantmanagement​ #restaurantmarketing​  #restaurantmanager​ #makingdoughshow

Download for FREE: Restaurant Business Plan | Free PDF https://mds.mykajabi.com/RestaurantBusinessPlan Watch: Opening a Restaurant: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid https://youtu.be/ffVyRNhF6cE Watch: AI Marketing: 12 Genius Ways ChatGPT Boosts Your Restaurant Business https://youtu.be/WAV4HkdO4a0 Restaurant Business Plan | 3 reasons you need it plus a free PDF to get you started   Unlock the secrets to restaurant success with a solid business plan! In this episode of Making Dough Show, we delve into why a restaurant business plan is crucial for navigating the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry. From understanding market demographics to conducting thorough market and competitive analysis, we uncover the essential ingredients needed to craft a profitable strategy. Learn how to project financials accurately, identify potential challenges, and capitalize on opportunities for growth. Whether you're a seasoned owner looking to refine your approach or a newcomer eager to make your mark, this episode offers invaluable insights into strategic planning and management. Discover the importance of SWOT analysis, profitability tactics, and effective budgeting to steer your restaurant towards long-term success. Don't miss out on this recipe for success! Subscribe to Making Dough Show for more expert tips and strategies on mastering the art of making dough in the restaurant business. LET'S CONNECT:  SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​  SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​  CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​ #restaurantmanagement​ #restaurantmarketing​  #restaurantmanager​ #makingdoughshow

Download for FREE: Restaurant Location Assessment Guide | Free pdf download https://mds.mykajabi.com/RestaurantLocationAssessmentGuide Watch: 37 RESTAURANT SYSTEMS | Run a restaurant successfully  https://youtu.be/OAHE8zfFFNs Watch: AI Marketing: 12 Genius Ways ChatGPT Boosts Your Restaurant Business https://youtu.be/WAV4HkdO4a0 Opening a Restaurant: 3 Common Mistakes to Avoid  Are you envisioning the grand opening of your own restaurant but feeling anxious about potential stumbling blocks along the way? Dive into the latest episode of the Making Dough Show where we delve deep into the intricacies of restaurant ownership. With a track record of managing six thriving restaurants and poised to open three more in the coming months, we intimately understand the fears and uncertainties that accompany this journey. Join us as we candidly share our experiences and offer invaluable insights to help you navigate the complexities of the restaurant industry. From meticulously planning budgets to strategically selecting the perfect location, we shed light on the common mistakes that can jeopardize your restaurant's success. One of the most significant blunders aspiring restaurateurs often make is underestimating the initial costs involved. Whether you're revamping a pre-existing space or starting from scratch, overlooking essential expenses like permits, equipment upgrades, and marketing efforts can lead to financial strain and setbacks. Moreover, the importance of choosing the right location cannot be overstated. It's not just about foot traffic or rental rates; factors like visibility, demographic appeal, and accessibility play pivotal roles in determining your restaurant's viability. Our comprehensive location scoring checklist, available for download, arms you with the tools to make informed decisions and avoid regrettable leases or unfavorable locales. Don't let uncertainty hold you back from realizing your culinary dreams. Tune in now to the Making Dough Show and embark on a journey towards restaurant success, armed with insider insights, practical advice, and the determination to make your mark in the world of hospitality. Subscribe today and join our community of passionate restaurateurs dedicated to making dough—both figuratively and literally! LET'S CONNECT:  SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​  SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​  CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​ #restaurantmanagement​ #restaurantmarketing​  #restaurantmanager​ #makingdoughshow

Download PDF for FREE: 12 Genius Ways ChatGPT Can Transform Your Restaurant Business https://mds.mykajabi.com/12-ways-chatGPT-can-transform-your-restaurant-business Watch: 37 RESTAURANT SYSTEMS | Run a restaurant successfully https://youtu.be/OAHE8zfFFNs Watch: The Ultimate TOAST Demo and Honest Review | Restaurant Owner Guide https://youtu.be/bcsiKtTa0TM AI Marketing: 12 Genius Ways ChatGPT Boosts Your Restaurant Business Join us on the Making Dough Show, where we explore the exciting possibilities of AI in restaurant management. In this episode, we uncover how ChatGPT can revolutionize your restaurant business. From crafting compelling email marketing campaigns to creating mouthwatering seasonal menus, we'll delve into 12 ingenious ways ChatGPT can transform your operations. Discover how ChatGPT simplifies social media content creation, inventory management, and competitor analysis, giving your restaurant a competitive edge. Learn how to analyze customer feedback, adapt to emerging culinary trends, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations using ChatGPT's powerful capabilities. Whether you're a seasoned restaurateur or just starting out, the Making Dough Show provides valuable insights and practical strategies to help your restaurant thrive in today's fast-paced world. Tune in now to unlock the full potential of AI and cook up success with us! LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​#restaurantmanagement​#restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​#makingdoughshow

Download for FREE: The RESTAURANT MANAGER SCORE SHEET at https://mds.mykajabi.com/restaurantmanagerscoresheet Watch: 4 Roles of a RESTAURANT MANAGER | Guide to Restaurant Management https://youtu.be/RWy998r37oM Watch: Customer Service Secrets: Surpass Expectation | Restaurant Owner Tips https://youtu.be/rMpjQn4XSSQ Feedback: The Key to Growth and Success | Tips for Restaurant Managers In this enlightening episode of Making Dough Show, we delve deep into the critical realm of feedback and its pivotal role in fostering growth and success. Join us as we uncover the intricacies of cultivating a robust feedback culture within leadership, exploring the profound impact of constructive criticism and its transformative power in driving professional development. As leaders, it's essential to understand the nuances of effective communication and embrace feedback as a catalyst for continuous improvement. From navigating performance evaluations to empowering team collaboration, we provide invaluable insights and strategies to enhance leadership skills and nurture employee engagement. Discover the art of feedback acceptance and how it fuels a growth mindset, propelling individuals and teams towards excellence. Gain practical advice on managing expectations, fostering open dialogue, and embracing feedback with grace and humility. Whether you're a seasoned manager, aspiring entrepreneur, or passionate team member, this episode offers indispensable guidance on navigating feedback dynamics, fostering a culture of trust and accountability, and unlocking the full potential of your team. Don't let your ego hinder your progress—embrace feedback as a cornerstone of success and embark on a journey of continuous learning and improvement. Join us as we explore the transformative power of feedback and pave the way for unparalleled growth and achievement. LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #RestaurantOwner #RestaurantMarketingTips

Download for FREE: The RESTAURANT MANAGER SCORE SHEET at https://mds.mykajabi.com/restaurantmanagerscoresheet Watch: 3 Restaurant Managers Key Team Building Strategies https://youtu.be/j5IKDD3KVhw Watch: 4 Roles of a RESTAURANT MANAGER | Guide to Restaurant Management https://youtu.be/RWy998r37oM 5 Common Restaurant Complaints and How to Handle Them Like a Pro In this episode, we uncover the top 5 common complaints from our beloved customers and offer essential strategies to tackle them head-on. From addressing wait time woes to ensuring order accuracy, we leave no stone unturned in optimizing your restaurant's customer experience. Join us as we explore the importance of cleanliness standards, friendly service, and effective complaint resolution protocols. Learn how to enhance customer satisfaction, improve service excellence, and elevate your restaurant's operations to new heights. 🔍 Dive into the world of restaurant management with our comprehensive guide to handling customer concerns, implementing quality checkpoints, and enhancing staff training. Discover the secrets to transforming feedback into success and mastering the art of customer communication. If you're ready to take your restaurant to the next level, don't miss this episode! Subscribe now to stay updated on all our latest tips and insights for restaurant owners and managers. Let's turn complaints into commendations and make every dining experience extraordinary! 🍽️ Comment below to share your own restaurant complaints and join the conversation! And if you're listening on the podcast, we'd love to hear your feedback—leave us a review to let us know how we're doing. Thank you for tuning in, and we'll catch you in the next episode of Making Dough Show! 🍽️ LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​#restaurantmanagement​#restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​#makingdoughshow

Download for FREE: The RESTAURANT MANAGER SCORE SHEET at https://mds.mykajabi.com/restaurantmanagerscoresheet Watch: Creating the Perfect Restaurant Atmosphere: Tips and Tricks from a Restaurant Owner https://youtu.be/OlHu_ijTzMw Watch: Startup Vs Operating Costs: Unveiling the Truth about Starting a Restaurant https://youtu.be/3COoovdTxXU 3 Restaurant Manager Key Team Building Strategies In this latest episode of the Making Dough Show, we delve deep into the intricate art of team building, tailored specifically for restaurant managers seeking to enhance their leadership prowess. With the restaurant industry's dynamic demands, fostering a cohesive and high-performing team is not just advantageous but essential for sustained success. Join us as we unravel three pivotal strategies designed to empower managers in cultivating a robust and unified workforce. Firstly, we unpack the importance of conducting impactful performance reviews, shedding light on the transformative effects of providing timely and constructive feedback. From aligning team objectives to pinpointing areas for improvement, these reviews serve as a cornerstone for nurturing individual growth and organizational excellence. Learn how to navigate these sessions with finesse, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and accountability. Next, we discuss the realm of engaging team building activities, exploring innovative approaches to strengthen bonds and ignite camaraderie among staff members. Discover the power of collaborative exercises, tailored to your restaurant's unique culture and dynamics, that not only foster teamwork but also injects renewed energy and enthusiasm into daily operations. Furthermore, we emphasize the significance of recognizing and celebrating the hard work of your team members. From frontline staff to managerial personnel, acknowledging contributions, big or small, cultivates a sense of value and appreciation that fuels motivation and loyalty. Gain insights into effective recognition strategies that go beyond mere acknowledgment, nurturing a culture of gratitude and empowerment. Throughout the episode, we underscore the pivotal role of leadership in setting the tone for a positive work environment. From fostering empathy and respect to enforcing company policies with fairness and compassion, effective leadership lays the groundwork for a cohesive and thriving team. Learn how to leverage communication and listening skills to understand the needs and aspirations of your team members, thereby fostering a culture of inclusivity and collaboration. As a bonus, don't forget to avail yourself of our complimentary restaurant manager score sheet, a valuable tool for self-assessment and professional development. Share your insights and experiences in the comments below, and let's embark on a journey of growth and success together. Together, let's elevate the standards of restaurant management, one team at a time. Join us as we make dough and make a difference in the vibrant world of hospitality. LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ #restaurant​#restaurantmanagement​#restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​#makingdoughshow 00:00 Introduction 01:42 Conducting Effective Team Performance Reviews 04:29 Bringing the Team Together 05:49 Recognizing and Rewarding Good Performance

Download for FREE: The RESTAURANT MANAGER SCORE SHEET at https://mds.mykajabi.com/restaurantmanagerscoresheet Watch: How to Open a Restaurant with No Money: Starting a Restaurant from Scratch https://youtu.be/jWQ9yBNf9OI Watch: 5 Things Every Restaurant Manager Should Know | Restaurant Owner Tips https://youtu.be/fYBRiDs7WvY LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@makingdoughshow SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/makingdoughshow CONNECT on Linked-In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hengamstanfield/ What is the Role of a Restaurant Manager | Guide to Restaurant Management Whether you're a seasoned restaurant owner, a budding entrepreneur exploring the role of a restaurant manager, or a consultant seeking insights into restaurant management, this episode of Making Dough Show is a must-watch. Gain valuable knowledge on conflict resolution, training plans, skill development, operational standards, cost control, budgeting, performance measurement, customer satisfaction, reputation management, continuous improvement, strategic planning, career growth, and the hospitality industry. Learn how to navigate the challenges of the restaurant industry with finesse and grace, and discover the strategies and techniques that will set you apart as a leader in the culinary world. Whether you're looking to enhance your existing skills or embark on a new career path in restaurant management, this episode provides actionable insights and practical advice to help you achieve your goals. So grab your score sheet, assess your strengths, and join the conversation on what it truly means to be a restaurant manager. Let's make some dough together and pave the way for success in the vibrant and ever-evolving world of hospitality. #restaurant​ #restaurantmanagement​ #restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​ #makingdoughshow

How to Open a Restaurant with No Money: Starting a Restaurant from Scratch Are you dreaming of owning your own restaurant but feeling stuck due to a lack of funds? Fear not, as Making Dough Show is here to illuminate the path towards restaurant ownership even in the face of financial constraints. In this insightful episode, we embark on a comprehensive exploration of the intricacies involved in launching a restaurant with minimal capital investment, catering to aspiring restaurateurs like Joseph who dare to dream big despite their financial limitations. Join us as we dissect the two primary avenues for restaurant establishment: building from the ground up or acquiring an existing establishment. We'll unravel the complexities and costs associated with both options, shedding light on the myriad considerations that can significantly impact your financial outlay. From the initial phases of securing a location and navigating the intricate web of permits and regulations to the crucial decision-making process involving equipment procurement and facility setup, we leave no stone unturned in our quest to demystify the restaurant ownership journey. Delve deeper into the realm of asset purchases, where we unveil insider tips on conducting thorough equipment appraisals to ensure optimal value extraction and mitigate the risk of unforeseen expenses down the line. Learn how to meticulously scrutinize financial records and assess the viability of potential acquisitions, armed with the knowledge of industry-standard valuation methodologies and the critical importance of due diligence in safeguarding your investment. But our journey doesn't end there. We equip you with indispensable strategies for crafting a robust marketing plan that can breathe new life into struggling establishments and catapult your venture to success. From harnessing the power of digital marketing channels to cultivating strategic partnerships within the local community, we empower you to navigate the competitive landscape of the restaurant industry with confidence and creativity. So whether you're a seasoned culinary enthusiast yearning to embark on a new entrepreneurial adventure or a seasoned industry professional seeking to breathe new life into an underperforming establishment, Making Dough Show is your trusted companion on the journey to restaurant ownership success. Join us as we unlock the secrets to realizing your restaurant dreams without breaking the bank, and remember to visit MakingDoughShow.com to submit your burning questions for future episodes. Your culinary destiny awaits – let's make it happen together! Watch: The Ultimate TOAST Demo and Honest Review | Restaurant Owner Guide https://youtu.be/bcsiKtTa0TM Watch: Startup Vs Operating Costs: Unveiling the Truth about Starting a Restaurant https://youtu.be/3COoovdTxXU LET'S CONNECT: SUBSCRIBE to our YouTube Channel: https://bit.ly/2sif5kX​ SUBSCRIBE to our Podcast: https://anchor.fm/makingdoughshow​ CONNECT on Linked-In: https://bit.ly/2D0a3QA​#restaurant​#restaurantmanagement​#restaurantmarketing​ #restaurantmanager​#makingdoughshow