If you had asked us about QR codes for small business 5 to 10 years ago, we would have told you not to bother.
Really.
They were confusing for most (still are for some), required a special app, and weren’t widely used. In fact, you’ll still find old articles online debating their value and unpopularity.
Then the pandemic happened.
Suddenly, restaurants around the world were using QR codes for their menus. Also, more smartphone brands added QR code readers to built-in cameras, making the tech more accessible.
Now, you’ll see QR codes on business cards, in stores, on product packaging, direct mail, city bus ads and even billboards.
What was once dying out is now part of modern marketing in a big way. And why not? They’re easier to use and make connecting with your audience easier too.
4 Best QR Code Uses for Small Business
Your prospects can call, click or buy from a QR code. And since we want to make it easier to get leads and grow sales, we’re all for it.
Let’s go over our recommendation for the 4 best QR code uses for your small business.
1. Quote Quick-Step
Are you in the service industry? Then you know customers want information fast, especially when they’re looking for quotes or estimates. Use QR codes to streamline the process.
The code can link directly to your quote request form. When prospects scan it, they’ll be just one click away from getting your quote.
And yes, saving extra clicks can make a difference. No one has the patience to click around now. This is why big ecommerce brands create a shopping process of 3 clicks or less and Amazon has 1-click shopping.
It’s all about speed and convenience. Plus, you can capture their contact details in the process, allowing you to follow up and close the deal. It’s a win-win for efficiency and customer satisfaction.
2. Promo Powerhouse
We all love a good discount or special offer, don’t we? QR codes let you deliver your offer quickly and conveniently in various places.
Wherever your target audience can be found is a good place to deliver your code. Create QR code-based promotions that lead to your seasonal deals, discounts or special offers.
Power this up with exclusivity or special/early access to make your prospects or customers feel like part of an exclusive club.
The best part is you can track your results for these promotions, so you’ll know exactly what’s working and what needs to be tweaked. QR codes could even boost the delivery of specials or promotions you’re already running every year.
3. Review Requester
Online reviews are vital for the “know, like and trust” factor for small businesses. We’ve written before about how reviews boost sales and SEO for local businesses. Part of getting these reviews is asking for them.
You have happy customers, right?
Turn their satisfaction into online praise. Create a QR code that takes them directly to your review page on platforms like Google, Angi or TripAdvisor.
Post the code in your office or store, your business card, mail pieces and elsewhere. (Regular links are better for email though, since readers are likely to be on their phones.)
Make it as easy and convenient as possible and you’ll start seeing more reviews. This method’s all about building trust and credibility and the QR code is a good tool for this.
4. Convenient Connections
Today, QR codes facilitate quick and convenient connections. You can use them to share your contact information, send people to your website or form, and even share your LinkedIn or social profiles.
No more fumbling for business cards or jotting down details. With tools like Blinq digital business cards, you get a personal QR code. And with a quick scan, your prospect has all they need to reach out. It’s a modern, efficient, and eco-friendly way to network.
Use them for connecting at:
- Trade shows, especially if you have a booth
- Events with your code on a business card, a postcard, a sign or a slide presentation
- Meetings with brochures or pitch decks
QR codes are no longer a relic of the past. They’re a bridge to the future of marketing and lead generation. And we have a feeling they’re going to stick around for quite a while.
Want more tips to boost your marketing? See our guide to Online Marketing for Small Business Success.
Have any questions? Let us know below or send an email.
Good info provided. Additional resources for Small Businesses