Restaurant Owners: Avoid These 7 Social Media Pitfalls

Common Mistakes Restaurants Make on Social Media

If you run a restaurant in the Chattanooga area, then you’re no stranger to the hustle. Between managing your employees, constant inventory, and working to keep your customers happy, social media might feel like just another item on your never-ending to-do list.

Even if it seems to be at the bottom of your priorities, social media is crucial to your success. Your restaurant’s online presence is usually someone’s first impression of your business. And if you’re making any of these common social media mistakes, you might be affecting your customer base without even realizing it.

Take a look at the 7 most common social media pitfalls to avoid, and learn how to fix them fast.

Mistake #1: Inconsistent Posting

One of the most common issues we see is inconsistent posting. Maybe you post three times in one week and then go silent for two. Unfortunately, social media algorithms reward consistency, and ghosting your audience can seriously hurt your engagement. The fix? Create a content calendar or batch your content in advance. One of our clients—a cozy Northshore eatery—went from sporadic posting to having an entire month’s worth of content scheduled in just one afternoon. That small change led to a 40% jump in engagement in just the first month.

Too much for you to take on alone? Ask us about our content creation and management services!

Mistake #2: Low-Quality Photos

Another frequent misstep is using low-quality photos. Grainy or poorly lit shots of your food just won’t cut it—especially when people eat with their eyes first. High-quality images help convey the experience your restaurant offers. Investing in brand photography (or hiring a pro) can make a world of difference.

Mistake #3: No Strategy Behind Posts

Many restaurant owners also struggle with posting without a strategy. If you're sharing content just to stay active, but without a clear goal, you're likely spinning your wheels. Ask yourself what you want from your social media—more reservations, online orders, or maybe greater brand awareness—and let that guide your content.

Mistake #4: Ignoring Community Engagement

It’s easy to overlook community engagement. Not responding to comments or messages might seem like no big deal, but it’s actually a missed opportunity to build loyalty. A simple reply goes a long way in creating customer connections. Whether you respond personally each day or outsource the task, engagement should be a regular part of your routine.

Mistake #5: All Promotions, No Personality

Making your feed all about promotions with no personality. While it’s important to share your menu and special offers, social media isn’t just a sales tool—it’s a way to connect. Mix in behind-the-scenes peeks, team member highlights, or glowing customer reviews to humanize your brand.

Need content inspiration? We’ve got a blog full of easy ideas for entrepreneurs.

Mistake #6: Not Using Reels or Videos

Then there’s the mistake of not using video content. Relying only on static images misses out on the powerful engagement that Reels or short videos can provide. Show off your chef in action, the plating process, or the energy in your restaurant during peak hours—these clips capture attention and give your audience a taste of the experience you offer.

Mistake #7: Not Showcasing What Makes You Stand Out

many restaurants miss the chance to show what makes them unique. If your posts don’t reflect your story or what sets you apart, you’re blending into the background. Your brand should be just as distinctive as your menu. This is where working with a creative team (like us!) can help. We can bring your identity to life—visually and verbally—so your content feels authentic and memorable.

✔️ Check Social Off Your To-Do List with Lawson House

Building a strong social media presence doesn’t have to feel like another full-time job. Start with these small but impactful fixes—or let our team handle the heavy lifting. Need help right away? Let’s chat. Whether it’s improving your brand aesthetic or creating a post strategy, we’re here to help Chattanooga restaurants make an impression online.