Training your staff on upselling will increase check averages. Upselling is simply a subtle way to encourage your customers to order more than they’d planned. If done right, it shows customers that your staff is both friendly and knowledgeable about the menu, which improves their dining experience.
Try the ideas below to train your staff and motivate them to upsell every customer who walks in the door:
- Ensure your staff tries all your menu items – including the daily specials. Customers can tell if your staff genuinely knows and likes the food they are suggesting.
- Be specific. Simple questions like, “Would you like an appetizer?” will not encourage your guests to order more. Mentioning specific favorite appetizers or calling out bestsellers and specials will get your guests more excited.
- Determine which items to upsell. Focus on adding appetizers and desserts, but also selling higher-profit menu items.
Be sincere. Reward success. Positive feedback and incentives can go a long way to encouraging your staff to continue to upsell.
