I have recently had my business cards redesigned to incorporate a Quick Response Code (QR) code. What’s a QR code you ask? It’s a two dimensional barcode which through the use of scanning aps on smart phones has now turned into a great marketing opportunity!
Why did I include a QR code on my business card? Aside from it being something different and memorable, the QR code on my card it takes those who scan it straight to my LinkedIn profile. A great way to build my database of LinkedIn connections.
QR codes have been around since 1994 (history here) but their widespread use is really only now starting to grow, in essence due to the popularity widespread use of smartphones. Scanner aps are now freely available and anyone with any type of smartphone can use QR codes, quickly and easily.
From a marketing perspective, QR codes provide a way for businesses to streamline their selling processes as well as an avenue to engage consumers and encourage direct sales. The scan can take you straight to a shopping cart for example. QR codes can be used both in a B2B and B2C capacity.
Here are some suggestions of how QR codes can be used for marketing activity –
- Direct users to your Facebook page and encourage ‘likes’
- Provide a direct link to a competition website page (to encourage entries/build a database of prospects)
- As part of a retail display in a shop front – take a passers by straight to the product page of the product shown for an immediate purchase
- On wine bottles. Wine makers can encourage direct sales from people who consume their product in restaurants
- Other business card uses include a direct link to google maps
- On any print advertisement, direct users to a landing page for direct purchase
- Take users to a You Tube video demonstration of some sort
QR codes are easy to set up and there are many sites that allow you to generate codes at no cost.
Why not try one in your business today?
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