Saturday, May 28, 2011

How to Use QR Codes to Market Your Business


A QR code is a 2-D barcode that can be scanned by a smart phone's camera and transfer information. Based on the type of code it is, it might direct the viewer to a website, make a phone call, deliver a vCard or more. Here are some creative suggestions on how you can take advantage of QR codes.

QR Codes on Business Cards: Rather than overloading your business cards with all of your contact information you could include the bare minimum information for someone to reach you, then create a QR code that leads people to your website, Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn profiles.

Labeling: Include a QR code on your product labeling. Customers can scan the QR code to learn more about your company, details about the product they scanned, and links to your other products and services.

Coupons or Deals: Mobile coupon apps by companies such as Groupon and Living Social have helped familiarize consumers with the idea of using their smart phones to earn discounts.Create discounts that are specific to QR codes. You could run these codes in advertisements or post them throughout your store.

Storefront Displays: Few retail businesses are open 24/7. Don't disappoint customers when you aren't there. Create a QR code that links to your online store and put it in your storefront window. One quick scan and you've turned a potential lost sale into an online sale.

Vehicle Lettering: Putting your phone number on your vehicle can lead to business, but it's easy to forget a phone number if you don't call it right away. Create a QR code with your phone number and other contact information so they can call you later. Disclaimer: Cloudscape does not advise scanning a QR code while you're driving.

Laptop Stickers: Slap a QR code sticker on your laptop. The next time a curious onlooker asks themselves what you're working on, they can scan your QR code and link to your website. It might lead to business, or it might just satisfy their curiosity.

Use QR Codes to get Likes and Follows: You can create mobile-friendly landing pages with Facebook like buttons or lead them to your Twitter page for a quick follow. The name of the game is engagement, so a like or follow can create a long-term marketing opportunity.

Get the Phone Ringing: QR codes can also make a phone call. If you want to get the phone ringing at your office you can create a QR code for a predetermined phone number. Likewise, QR codes can also generate SMS text messages.

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