QR Codes for Small Business Marketing

A Quick Response (QR) code is a two-dimensional code that can be scanned by smartphone cameras to automatically pull up text, photos, videos, music and URLs.

These codes have become mobile-friendly ways to point people in the offline space to online resources.

Remember, QR codes are new for consumers in the United States, but have been heavily used internationally for well over a year. QR codes should provide some kind of value to the person scanning it, so directing someone to your website homepage might not be the best thing.

Here are some ways to put QR codes to work for you:

• On business cards: A fast and simple way to use QR codes for your own professional purposes is to place them on business cards. Generate a barcode that directs scanners to your online resume, small business Facebook page or your website to help new contacts find you or your business faster.
• On marketing materials: You've got fliers, brochures, programs, handouts, whitepapers and a myriad of other materials in your media kit. Add QR codes to direct viewers to a particular how-to video, send them to a Flickr photo set, get them to follow you on Twitter, or point them to a mobile-friendly landing page that promotes a new campaign. For inspiration, check out what the Detroit Red Wings did with QR codes in their arena programs.
• In storefront windows: Google is sending out QR code window decals to top local businesses with Google Place pages. If they don't send you one, steal the idea and generate your own QR code to place in your window. You can use this code to encourage Fousquare check-ins, point scanners to your Yelp profile, or simply invite customers to share memories in photo, video or text form via Stickybits.
• For freebies: If you really want people to pay attention to your QR codes, make them good for something fun. Say you've placed a QR code decal in your storefront window, why not reward those who scan it with 10% off their purchase or a free pastry? Give them something small to thank them for their patronage. Simply create a custom QR code for the freebie you want to offer. You could even get creative and hide the QR code offers online, like on your Facebook page or website, or somewhere inside your store.

If you want to see if QR codes are right for your marketing communication mix, contact ABC Creative Group today at 315-471-1002 or info@abccreativegroup.com.