A few simple tips can ensure your audience will scan your QR codes.
The momentum on QR codes continues, even with other mobile technologies moving in. Much to my surprise, a post I did a few months ago on QR codes was the most popular topic I wrote about all year.
Not wanting to be accused of being out of touch with my readers, here’s a follow up with a few great reminders from Target Marketing.
1. Provide Instructions Near the QR Code
While use of QR codes is much more mainstream than this time last year, some people still don’t know what they are. I was recently reminded of this when a person who is arguably a member of the CV marketing target audience sent me an e-mail asking if I knew about this “great new technology.” Yikes.
Anyway, I digress. Simple instructions, e.g., copy that says, “Scan the QR Code with your smartphone” can help. You might also think about adding a visual that shows a smartphone pointing to the QR Code.
2. Give People an Incentive
As with any marketing tool, make sure you have a good reason to use it besides the “cool” factor. Think about how the QR code can make life easier for your audience — accessing a map or directions, contacting you or making an appointment. Then make sure to include the benefit on your printed materials to let people know what they’ll gain from scanning the code.
3. Educate Your Audience Ahead of Time
Promote your QR codes in some of your other media channels. Think about a blog post or an online video that demonstrates how one uses a smartphone to scan QR Codes. Put one on your social media pages or in your email signature for a little while. Talk about them in your e-newsletter. Integrating information about your QR codes in these channels may increase usage on your printed pieces.
4. Shorten the Destination URL
This is similar to the importance of fast load times on your website. The more data that you have in a QR Code, the harder it may be to scan it quickly. Make sure to use a service that shortens your URLs before generating the QR Code.
If you have other tips that are working for you, share in the comments below.
