The 8 Senses You Need To Have To Succeed As A Food Concession Operator.
1. The All Important Sight Sense Test. Most people walking along the street will give you and your food cart, whether it is a small stand or large enclosed concession trailer, the once over eye test before they even consider walking toward your location. If they do not like the way you look or if they don’t like the appearance of your concession stand, chances are they are not going to approach you. They will keep walking.
2. The Sense of Smell Test. It has been said that the aroma from certain foods acts like an aphrodisiac to the senses. The seductive smell of sauteed caramelized onions can overcome the strongest resistance barriers. Add to that the enticing scent of fresh brewed coffee and warm pretzels drifting through the air and the magic spell is artfully cast. Depending on your market area, you might add certain spices to the hot plate to liven up the assortment of aromas even more. If they were not hungry before, the hodge podge of pleasing aromas will draw them in like robots in a trance.
3. The Taste Sense Test. We always served up the best quality. We carried brand name all beef hot dogs and sausages, such as Sabretts, Hebrew National or Nathans depending on local taste preferences. Your product cost will be a little higher, but in the long run it is worth every penny. You want your customer to enjoy the food you sell and to enjoy the experience of stopping and eating at your stand. And you want him to return and to recommend you to others. At the end of the day throw out or give away any left over perishables. Never save old product for use the next day. Never skimp on quality. Buy the best quality products even if you have to raise your prices.
4. The Oral Sense Test. When a customer is approaching your stand, know what to say to be helpful. Be pleasant and sell at the same time. Be sincere and offer suggestions. For example you might point at your menu board which shows your offerings and the various condiments. Ask them how they like their hot dog dressed. Make sure you know how to upsell. Take a cue from MacDonalds and ask if they want a soda and chips with their order. If you can be funny, humor is good. If you are not a funny person, don’t fake it. Be everything else instead.
5. Hearing Test. This is the customers perception about you. People like to deal with friendly courteous people. Offer an extra napkin so they dont make a mess on their expensive looking shirt or blouse. Everyone appreciates flattery.
6. Feeling Test. Always smile and be friendly. Try to leave your problems at home. After a while you will start to see the same faces over and over again. People will start talking to you like you are their friend. You will eventually remember their names and what they like. In time youll become a popular concession stand where people like to go. And in time very wealthy too.
7. Common Sense Test. Smile, be happy, and be courteous. Watch how fast your new and repeat customer base grows. Watch how fast your profits add up. And as crazy as it sounds, the best test of your overall success or failure is how fast your tip jar adds up! This is a great indicator of how well you are doing your job. A sign of how much people like you and your product. And the more they like you the more successful you will be.
8. The Touch Sense Test. Always follow the health department guidelines in your area. Never touch the food with your hands. And try not to touch food surfaces either. In some jurisdictions you will have to wear plastic gloves and adhere to local rules and regulations. Always use your tongs when handling the food products. Handling the money is the tricky part. Money can be a source of germs. Use one hand for your money transactions and wash or sterilize your hands frequently.