The Quick Response or QR code is an enhanced version of an average barcode. QR codes can hold roughly 350 times the amount of information stored on a typical one-dimensional barcode, making them an excellent tool for your business.
A Japanese auto manufacturer initially introduced the QR Code to track vehicles and parts during the assembly process. But it didn’t take long for the QR Code to gain a wider audience as large brands began using QR codes as a marketing tool.
Smart Phones And The Pandemic Boost The Popularity Of QR Codes
Nowadays, the typical camera app on a smartphone can scan the information on a QR code. Most smartphones come with a built-in QR reader accessible through the camera. This feature makes it convenient to use in campaigns to deliver marketing material and information about day-to-day business operations, including contactless payments.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, many restaurants turned to the QR code to provide customers with a contactless option to view a menu, place an order, and pay by pointing their smartphone at the black, barcode-like squares.
Helpful information, including names, locations, and website addresses, can be reliably and inexpensively held in a tiny QR code.
How To Use A QR Code For Your Business
Today, QR codes have taken on a variety of uses. They can be placed on anything—TV, billboards, print material, clothing labels, menus, you name it. QR codes give businesses the ability to reach their target customers wherever they are.
There are countless ways businesses can incorporate QR technology into their growth strategies. Here are a few ways to use a QR code to enhance your marketing efforts.
- Direct mail – You can use a QR code on a flyer or printed postcard to enhance your local marketing campaign.
- Infographics – A QR code in an infographic can encourage readers to take further action, such as reading additional information, making a purchase, or subscribing to a blog.
- A contest or promotion – You can direct customers to enter a contest or a free giveaway by scanning a QR code.
- Direct customers to a website or landing page – A QR code can remove the hassle of a person looking up and navigating through the various pages on your website. Instead, you can send them directly to a specific page.
- View the business location – Want to direct customers to your business? A QR code can link to a Google Map that leads directly to your restaurant or shop.
- Interactive video ads – Some larger companies have used QR codes to send users to an interactive advertisement that includes a coupon or a CTA.
- Carryout orders - If you’re a pizza place, you could use QR codes to help with no-contact pickup or carryout orders.
- On business cards – A QR code on your business card can direct customers to your website, social media accounts like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and more. QR codes are an easy way to help others remember who you are, where you work, or how to reach you.
How To Create A QR Code For Your Business
Thankfully, creating a QR code doesn’t require a call to your nearest Geek Squad. You can build your QR code in just a few steps:
- Plan your content
- Choose a QR code generator
- Create your QR code
- Test the QR code
- Share and distribute
If you’re looking for a simple and free QR code generator, here are a few to get you started:
Depending on which QR Code generator you choose, the program will guide you through a few different options to help create your QR code. But no matter the generator, simply complete the following steps:
- Choose either a dynamic or static QR code – Dynamic QR codes allow you to change the QR code destination. Static QR codes will always link to a particular set of information.
- Upload or link the QR code content – Every QR code generator needs to be told where to send your customers. Simply upload your files or input your intended link.
- Customize your QR code – Customization options include choosing colors for your QR code, adding your business's logo, or even a custom design to your QR code to make it stand out.
Once you’ve completed the steps above, your QR code generator will instantly create a QR code. Test the code, and you're ready to share it with your customers.
Incorporating QR Codes Into Your Business
Technology is constantly evolving and reshaping the way we do business. Whether you want to make it easier for customers to find your location, shop your products and services, or browse your menu, consider using a QR code to help boost your business.
Quikstone has a wide range of helpful information for your business on our website.
We've helped thousands of merchants grow their business with easy, fast, and flexible funding for their business needs. If you'd like to purchase new equipment, take advantage of special buying opportunities, hire additional staff, or expand or remodel, and don't have the funds, we can help.
