If you’ve ever called a restaurant to make a dinner reservation, you know the frustration of being put on hold or having to leave a voicemail and wait for a callback. Even once you get through, coordinating schedules and securing the ideal date and time can be a tedious back-and-forth.
But what if the reservation process was completely automated and seamless from start to finish? No more waiting on hold, no more phone tag, no more hassle. That’s exactly what virtual AI receptionists are making possible for restaurants by instantly sending callers a text message with a link to book reservations online.
How Virtual AI Receptionists Work
Virtual AI receptionists are artificial intelligence systems that can answer incoming calls using natural language processing. When someone calls to make a reservation, the AI detects the request and instantly fires off a text message containing:
- A friendly greeting from the restaurant
- A link to the restaurant’s online reservation system
- Any other relevant info like Google Maps link for directions
The caller simply taps the reservation link, picks their desired date/time from the available slots, and books instantly – all from the convenience of their mobile device with just a couple taps.
The Benefits for Restaurants
Automating reservations with virtual AI receptionists provides major advantages for restaurants:
Eliminate Hold Times and Streamline Operations
By instantly sending a text with an online reservation link, restaurants can drastically reduce incoming call volume and eliminate the need for hostesses to constantly juggle phone reservations. This frees up staff to focus on providing great service and hospitality.
Improve Customer Experience
Letting customers book on their own time through an online system is far more convenient than being put on hold or leaving voicemails. The seamless process improves the overall experience.
Capture More Reservations
Many potential customers simply hang up if they can’t get through or don’t have time to be put on hold. Automating it with text/online booking captures more of these opportunities.
Increase Reservations During Peak Times
AI handles unlimited simultaneous calls, so restaurants never miss out on reservations during busy periods when phone lines are jammed.
Enhancing the Experience Further
But the benefits don’t stop at just automating the initial reservation. Virtual AI receptionists can also automatically send:
Menus via Text
Give customers a chance to preview menus by texting them a link after the reservation is booked.
Google Maps Link for Directions
Make it easy to find the restaurant by including a Google Maps link with directions.
Automated Review Requests
After the meal, the virtual AI receptionists can automatically follow up by sending a text with a link to leave a review on Google or other sites. This helps restaurants build their online reputation.
The Future of Restaurant Tech
Automated reservations are just the start of how virtual AI receptionists and text messaging can modernize and streamline restaurant operations. From advanced implementations of handling takeout/delivery orders to simple solutions providing automated FAQ responses, Virtual AI receptionists have immense potential.
Restaurants that embrace virtual AI receptionists and let customers self-book through online channels will be ahead of the curve. They’ll enjoy operational efficiencies, better customer experiences, and a technological edge over competitors still stuck in the age of phones on hold.
As consumer expectations continue to shift, automating reservations through virtual AI receptionists and text/online channels is the future for restaurants wanting to meet guests’ demands for convenience and ease. Those that adapt earliest will reap the rewards of happier customers and a smoother front-of-house.