More companies are realizing the power of using QR codes in their digital marketing strategies.  QR codes are very similar to bar codes, in that they contain information that can be decrypted by a QR reader.  QR codes can be scanned and read by various applications on a smartphone. This enables everyone with a smartphone to read QR codes without any special equipment, only your phone. It is really easy to use – if you see a QR code in an advertisement, scan it with your smartphone and immediately have access to a lot of information electronically.

QR codes have been around for a couple of years, but in the last few months the usage of them has increased amongst entrepreneurs in using them with dedicated mobile marketing strategies. It is now also becoming common to receive business cards with a QR code on them.  That way, you can access more information than what you can just fit on a business card.  I use them on my business cards and when scanned, redirects the user to my “digital business card” where you can find more information about me and links to what I do.

Ways you can use QR codes

  • Email signatures
  • Business cards
  • Social media profiles
  • Online banners
  • Profile photo’s
  • Entrance tickets

People appreciate the fun in scanning a QR code, and they will most likely be impressed with your initiative in using them. They will remember your business before they will the company without one, and they will most likely like that you have less printed material that they have to take with them.

Setting up QR codes is very easy and you can find a few online tools that you can create them for free.  How are you going to use them in your marketing efforts?