You may have noticed black symbols showing up on billboards and other marketing materials in recent months. These 2-D barcodes are known as QR codes (Quick Response codes) and are gaining in popularity thanks to the recent explosion of smartphones among consumers.
QR code usage is still relatively new in the U.S. but now is the perfect time for companies to get in on the trend. It will help attract new customers and establish your growing company as cutting edge.
If you are new to QR codes, here is an explanation of the process as well as some specific ways you can use the QR codes to promote your business.
How QR codes are used
When smartphone users download QR code apps, they are able to take a picture of the code and get hidden content that marketers have programmed into the code. This content may include a website, business contact information, a coupon or other promotion. Promotions include discounts, codes for free shipping or merchandise, and downloads. Others are also using the codes to garner more participation on their Facebook page and building their e-mail marketing database.
The apps that are required to scan and read the QR codes are free and have been developed to work with Blackberry, iPhone and Andriod phones.
How to create QR codes
Business owners and marketing departments are easily able to create QR codes thanks to websites like qrcode.kaywa.com. The services are quick and free, making it simple for you to test the concept to see how it works for your business without having to make a large investment.
When you visit Kayway's QR-Code Generator, you are able to indicate the website, text, phone number or sms that you would like the QR code to generate. With a click of a mouse, the code is created and you will be able to save it to your computer. The site also provides you with a permalink and HTML code that you can easily copy and paste to your company's blog or website.
Why business owners are using QR codes
QR codes allow companies to engage their current and potential customers.
Google recently revealed results of a study they conducted regarding people who conduct searched on their mobile phones. The study found that these consumers are extremely action-oriented; 90 percent will act on their search by calling or visiting the business they were searching for so they can make a purchase.
The potential QR code user base is growing, with the percentage of smartphone owners at 15 to 19 percent at the end of 2010 and expected to double by the end of 2011, according to information published by interlinkONE.
This group of smartphone users are an appealing group to bring into your customer base. By utilizing this low-cost (financial and time) marketing tool, you are able to quickly engage these consumers.
Ways you can incorporate QR codes
Here are just a few of the many ways you can start utilizing QR codes to promote your business and attract new customers:
- Business cards-include a code on your business card that allows customers to save your company's contact information directly to their phone.
- T-shirts-create t-shirts for your staff that has a QR code. When your customers scan the code, you can send them to a promotional website that highlights the current offers that you are providing customers. You can also get your customers involved by giving them a free t-shirt they can wear around town.
- Direct mail-include a QR code on your next postcard or other mailing campaign to help boost response rates. If your mail piece is being mailed in an envelope, include the code on the outside of the envelope. This will peek recipients' interest and help increase open rates.
- Billboards and print marketing materials-whether it's big or small, you can incorporate your QR code on just about any hardcopy marketing material. Companies are including them on fliers, brochures, posters, and magazine ads.
How to get the most out of QR codes
Before jumping into your QR code campaign, you may want to consider the following tips that will help you increase the ROI of your marketing efforts.
- Make it smartphone friendly. Keep in mind that consumers are going to access your QR code content on their mobile phone. So, if your code is going to take them to a website, be sure it's designed to be easily viewed and navigated via a phone.
- Educate your current customers about QR codes. The QR code concept is still fairly new to the US. When you include a code on advertising or your website, include a short message that encourages them to utilize a QR code reader to get special information or discount from your company. If you have a newsletter, include a short blurb in your next issue that gets your customers excited about the fun, new communication technique.
- Point customers to QR code readers. Help people utilize your QR codes by letting them know that free code reader apps are available for them to download on their phones. Consumers love the word "free", so be sure to highlight that they can take advantage of this technology without having to use money.
- Utilize QR codes to create VIP access. Customers like feeling special. You can create an intimacy with your customers by using your QR codes to give them VIP access. Use the code to provide them discounts, websites or event information that can only be accessed through the QR campaign.
Daniela Baker is a social media advocate at the small business credit cards comparison site, CreditDonkey. Have you been using QR codes to promote your business? Leave a comment below with your experience.