Time to Get Loud on Social

Canada's Restaurant Coach, Jay Ashton

This isn’t the time to sit back and watch, it’s the first quarter, the critical moment to establish your strategy, claim your space, and get customers through your doors.

In my game, the first quarter is all about setting the tone, making bold moves, and showing your opponent you’re here to win. For restaurants, your “opponent” is the January slump, and your plays are all about creating buzz, building energy, and turning online engagement into real-world foot traffic.

Your social media is the game plan. Every post is a pass, every story a run, every reel a touchdown. Show off your star dishes like they’re MVPs, let your team’s personality shine, and remind people that your restaurant is the place to kick off their new year. Customers are scrolling right now, looking for their next meal, their next experience, be there when they look.

This quarter isn’t about playing it safe. It’s about taking risks and making noise. Launch a limited-time special, post a behind-the-scenes clip, or create an irresistible call-to-action that gets people off their couches and into your dining room. January can be quiet, unless you make it loud.

The momentum you build now sets the pace for the rest of the year. A strong start means packed tables, happy customers, and a reputation as the go-to spot in your community. So don’t wait. The ball is in your hands, the field is wide open, and the crowd is watching.

Play to win. Post boldly, engage authentically, and make this first quarter count. The game has just begun, and the victory is yours to claim.

Your Restaurant Coach