How To Bounce Back After a Bad Health Inspection

Talk to any restaurant owner or manager, and they’ll tell you their number one fear is receiving a failing grade after a health inspection. Such a failing grade doesn’t just slow down business—it can potentially lead to permanent closure. Unfortunately, this is a reality for many. To help navigate this challenging situation, here are some valuable tips for bouncing back after a poor health inspection grade.

Understanding the Scores

When you receive a poor grade on your health inspection, it’s easy to assume that your entire operation needs an overhaul. However, this isn’t necessarily the case. Health inspection scores are typically based on individual infractions, each contributing a certain number of points that collectively determine your final grade. You should have received a detailed report outlining all the infractions. This allows you to focus on specific areas that need improvement without disrupting the aspects of your business that are already compliant and functioning well.

Dealing with the Aftermath

Health inspection records are public and can quickly become news in your local community, spreading through news outlets and social media. It’s crucial to handle the aftermath transparently and responsibly. Avoid going into hiding, as this can lead the public to believe you have something to hide. Instead, be open about the situation. Acknowledge the issues, take responsibility, and clearly communicate the steps you are taking to rectify the problems. Transparency can help rebuild trust with your customers and the community.

Making Marketing a Priority

Once you have addressed and resolved the issues highlighted in the health inspection, it’s time to ramp up your marketing efforts. It may be tempting to lay low until the situation blows over, but this can result in further loss of customers. Proactive marketing shows that you are committed to improving and maintaining high standards. Highlight the changes you’ve made and any new safety measures you’ve implemented. While there’s no guarantee that you will immediately regain your customers’ trust, showing that you’re taking action can attract new patrons and potentially bring back former ones.

Making Things Right

Health inspectors are often called in following reports of customers getting sick. One effective way to demonstrate responsibility is by reaching out to affected customers and making amends. Offer refunds, free meals, or other compensations to show that you value their business and are committed to making things right. This gesture can turn dissatisfied customers into advocates for your restaurant, helping to restore your reputation.

Prepare for the Unexpected

The restaurant industry is unpredictable, and no business is immune to the possibility of a poor health inspection. If you find yourself in this situation, following these tips can help you recover. Address the specific infractions, communicate openly with your customers, and enhance your marketing efforts to show your commitment to high standards.

If you need assistance with marketing your restaurant after making necessary improvements, we can help. The Digital Restaurant team specializes in cost-effective online advertising strategies tailored to the restaurant industry. We can develop a custom strategy to maximize your return on investment. Contact us today to learn more.