10 Ways to Use a QR Code

Quick Response (QR) codes have been steadily gaining popularity as a branding tool to quickly send information to an audience.  Unlike the traditional bar-code that is made up of vertical lines, a QR code is made up of black squares that form lines and patterns inside of a larger square.  When scanned with a QR Reader application on a Smartphone, this unique bar code can bring up content straight to the user’s phone.

There are many ways to use QR Codes.  They appeal to all generations making it an easy way to advertise.  They are printed in magazines, newspapers, fliers, even on promotional products.  The content within these codes can take a user to a special URL, a company web page, a Facebook page, or any other website created by the advertiser.

Here are 10 ways QR codes can be used on promotional items:

1. A QR code on a business card can easily add your contact information onto the user’s mobile device with a quick scan.
2. Have users scan your name badge at a conference to access your contact and company information.
3. At your next trade show, add a QR code to a small promotional item like a mint tin.  Give the mint tin to people who visit your booth.  When they scan the code, it will take them to a web page where they can enter a contest to win a prize.
4.  When trying to get people to “like” your Facebook page, pass out promotional items with a QR code that links directly to your Fan Page.
5. Send out a direct mail piece with a QR code that links to Special Offer Coupons and Discounts.
6. For restaurant owners, add a QR code to your  menu to give access to nutritional information.
7. Retailers can add a QR code to their shopping bags that contains product information and pricing for a new product.
8. Trying to let your customers know where your business is located?  Add a QR code to a key tag so users will always have access to the Google Map directions to your business along with your hours of operation.
9. Send users to your website or blog by adding a QR code to a promotional item you pass out to future and current clients.
10. Real Estate agents can hand out a house shaped magnet with a QR code so potential buyers can scan the code to be taken to virtual tours for the current homes for sale.

If you are looking to give your customers the information they need right away, a quick scan of a QR code will do the trick.  If you want to get the most out of your QR code, try printing it on a promotional item.   This way, it will be easier for the recipient to share the code with their friends giving you more exposure.