Most of us have probably seen these abstract images, consisting of black and white squares, and it’s becoming a common occurrence to see these squares used everywhere. Rather impressive, considering that they have only been around for 20 years.
Originally designed in Japan in the 90’s for tracking car parts, they are more multi-purpose than barcodes, and that’s why they offer even more opportunities for business. So, let’s check what we can get by using them.
What are they and how do I use them?
QR – short for quick response code – is a two dimensional barcode with coded information of any kind: text, business card, link to the website, and so on. All you need for decoding these mysterious squares is mobile phone with a QR code reader and Internet access. After scanning, the information contained in the QR is displayed on the smartphone screen.
How can I get one?
There are many free QR code-generating services online, including the-qrcode-generator.com or goqr.me. You can choose the type of the content for your code and state your preferences about what the code should look like. It’s really that fast and easy.
How to use them for business?
QR codes have a wide range of applications for business. The most common ways to use them are:
- Placing the code on your business card. Then, in addition to knowing your contact info, people will have an opportunity to visit your site straightaway.
- Put it on your printed ad. The ad, in this case, should be intriguing and encourage the reader to scan the code and know more.
- Offer a discount or attractive proposition for everyone who scans the code. This will draw more people’s attention to your business as well as traffic to your website.
- Promote your social media page. Create the code especially for your page.
- Offer a code to scan in your shop. Place the code in a visible place near the entrance and offer a discount or some kind of prize and, chances are, nearly everyone will scan it.
- Use a QR code to promote your special offer or an upcoming event. Give a hint so everyone who scans the code will see the detailed information.
As you see, there are lots of opportunities to make the QR code work for you. If used correctly, it can be a good promotional tool, and creating the code and checking its features is definitely worth your time.
About the Author: Paul Smith is an experienced writer. He enjoys spending his time traveling and writing articles about health, business and social media. Paul also writes essays for Clever Paper Writing Services, and you can find him on Google+.