If you’re in the catering business, you know the chaos all too well: juggling orders, managing staff, and trying to stay on top of customer expectations. It can feel like an uphill battle. But trust me, it doesn’t have to be this way.
In my recent interview on the Inspired Insider Podcast, I broke down the strategies and systems I’ve used to turn catering chaos into calm—and helped thousands of others do the same.
Watch the full episode here:
So, how do you bring more order to your business? It starts with focusing on a few key areas that can transform your operations, boost your sales, and give you back your time.
The Fortune Is in the Follow-Up
How often have you sent a proposal and just hoped the client would get back to you? It’s not enough to cross your fingers. Following up is where the magic happens.
Here’s my approach: Set up reminders for every proposal. Reach out by phone or email, and don’t hesitate to offer a tasting for larger events. With CaterZen, you can automate follow-up reminders, so you never miss an opportunity to close the deal.
Proposals That Wow and Win
Your proposal isn’t just a piece of paper—it’s your silent salesperson. A plain Word document doesn’t cut it. Use visuals, testimonials, and even guarantees to make your pitch stand out.
For example, our CaterZen software helps you create beautifully designed, professional proposals in minutes. These documents are not only visually appealing but also effective in selling your services by including FAQs and photos of your best work.
The Power of Direct Marketing
When I started in catering, I didn’t wait for clients to find me—I found them. From sending niche-targeted direct mail campaigns to offering irresistible guarantees, I learned that proactive marketing is the secret to growing catering sales.
Want an easy win? Use your CRM to identify key client groups—schools, churches, corporate offices—and send them tailored campaigns. CaterZen makes this simple with a robust catering CRM and built-in marketing and sales tools to help you target and rebook repeat clients.
Stay Efficient and Organized
Managing multiple orders and deliveries can feel like running a marathon. But when you use the right tools, it’s like running on a moving walkway instead. Our delivery routing feature, for example, helps you group orders efficiently, saving you time and money.
One of CaterZen's clients, Jennisa Mangold of Backyard Catering, said it best: “There are days where we’ll serve 20 schools in one day because the school district here is our biggest customer. Using that delivery driver feature made it really easy to figure out.”
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The Simple Power of Saying Thank You
Never underestimate the impact of a heartfelt thank-you. Sending a thank-you note after an event not only shows your appreciation but also helps you stand out in your client’s mind.
Whether it’s a handwritten card, a follow-up email, or even a small token of appreciation, this small gesture can turn one-time clients into lifelong customers. CaterZen makes this process seamless with customizable thank-you emails.
Ready to Transform Your Catering Business?
I’ve been where you are—managing the chaos and wondering how to make it all work. With the right tools and strategies, you can simplify your operations, boost your sales, and find the calm you’ve been looking for.
Let CaterZen help you get there. Schedule a quick-start training session or sign up for a free 30-day trial. Let’s turn your catering headaches into success stories.
