You may have seen QR codes.

They’re the odd looking square “bar” codes, just like the one on this blueberry container below.

 

According to this article on Mashable.com

” 20.1 million mobile phone owners in the U.S. used their devices to scan a QR code in the three-month average period ending October 2011. In the big scheme of things, this isn’t a large number. However, the number of people using QR codes is expected to grow.”

Using an “app” on your smartphone (I use one simply called “Scan”), you scan in the code and your phone synchronizes with the internet. Essentially, the QR code is a hotlink – and it opens your browser to a website. Whatever website the company has directed it to.

This QR code directed me to the following site:

 

Their primary objective is they want me to “Meet the Owner”. Because I purchased the blueberries from a grocery store, perhaps they want the consumer to realize there are farmers behind the crops they are purchasing. They want to put a face behind the blueberries. 🙂

If this were my client? I’d direct the consumer to a mouthwatering recipe that would make me HAVE to buy the product.

Or better yet, have the QR code direct me to a coupon that can be scanned in at checkout.

(But, having said this…I’m not going to take the time to scan in each produce item as I’m grocery shopping.)

Since they aren’t widely used yet, you might be “first to market” this marketing concept for your business. Just be sure to make your offer compelling and useful.
So how can you use QR codes for your business?

Think of QR codes as a hotlink from “real life” to the virtual world.

Just a few caveats and tips:

  • Do not jump into using QR codes just because you can.
  • Think of your strategy (what are your objectives).
  • Think of your audience (are they digitally savvy enough to know how to use them?)
  • The QR code should be provided in a place where people have access to an Internet connection. When people are in the subway/elevator, the connection may not be strong enough. If they have to save and look at it later, you may have lost the opportunity to connect with them.
  • Take into account that size matters. You want it to be accessible enough for people to scan it in. Too big or too small will not be effective.
  • Ideally you want to give people a REASON to scan the QR code. A bar code is not enough of an incentive for people to take the time and scan it in without a call-to-action. WHY should they scan it? What will they get?

So you’ve decided that QR codes work with your demographic, what ways can can you integrate your traditional “offline” marketing and direct people to your online channels?

Allow people to download something for free. Do you have something your customers want? Information, tips, white papers, studies, recipes, etc?

  • Wine companies have QR codes on the bottles to direct the consumer to their website, to describe the wine or to provide pairing suggestions.
  • Golf courses can use QR codes at beginning of each hole which will lead to a video of your Golf Pro giving quick tips.
  • Direct people to sign up to your newsletter, Facebook page or Twitter feed. Remember: anything they have to do to log-in is a barrier so make it as easy as possible.
  • If you have a bricks-and-mortar, use a QR code on your door or window display for those who are window shopping when you’re closed.

I LOVE this idea from JCPenney.

The gift buyer could use the QR code to include a personalized message. Perfect for “Secret Santa”!

 

And from the same Mashable article, think about using a QR code to encourage people to integrate with Google. Ask your customers to give a testimonial or review.

 

What truly remarkable QR campaigns have you seen?

Like tips like these? We have an exclusive monthly e-newsletter where we give tips and tricks we don’t share anywhere else.

Sign up now at https://punchmedia.ca

Posted in Current trends & tips, Mobile and tagged ,

About Leslie Hughes

Leslie Hughes is a LinkedIn Optimization Specialist, LinkedIn Top Voice, and Corporate Trainer with over 25 years of experience in digital marketing and LinkedIn profile writing. As the Principal of PUNCH!media and author of "CREATE. CONNECT. CONVERT," Leslie helps executives and professionals optimize their LinkedIn profiles, generate leads, and attract higher-paying clients. Recognized as a LinkedIn Top Voice—an exclusive honor from LinkedIn—Leslie is a trusted authority on LinkedIn profile optimization, AI-driven marketing strategies, and digital identity management. Her expertise has been featured on CBC Radio, where she was called a "Social Media Guru," and on CTV’s "The Social," where she shared strategies for managing digital identity. Leslie empowers professionals to leverage generative AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance marketing strategies, boost efficiency, and create impactful content that converts. She helps businesses understand how to use LinkedIn for lead generation and how AI can revolutionize their digital marketing efforts. Leslie has worked with top organizations like Investment Planning Counsel, Guardian Life Insurance Company of America, JLL, and Franklin Templeton, optimizing LinkedIn profiles and providing corporate training that delivers measurable results. Leslie is a former college professor and co-lead instructor for Ontario Tech University’s Social Media Marketing and Digital Management Certificate. Whether you need a LinkedIn profile writer, corporate trainer, or AI marketing specialist, Leslie Hughes can help you elevate your digital presence and transform your marketing strategy. Ready to take your LinkedIn profile and corporate training to the next level? Learn more at www.punchmedia.ca.