QR codes might be easy to use, but you still have to equip yourself with the best practices and guides, so you can create better QR codes.
However, to use this tool for customer engagement effectively, it is essential to understand the QR code best practices for creating and implementing them.
This comprehensive guide will discuss the best practices for small businesses using QR codes in their marketing efforts.
7 QR code best practices for small businesses
If you plan to incorporate QR codes for your marketing campaign, use a Free QR code Generator software for a seamless experience.
An here some of the best practices for QR codes as you make them:
Use a simple and clean design
Keep your QR code design simple and avoid cluttering it with too much information or graphics.
It will make it easier for customers to scan and understand the purpose of the code.
Use contrasting colors
Use a high-contrast color scheme, such as black on white, to make the code stand out, and users can quickly scan it.
If your QR code’s pattern and background lack contrast, it may lead to scanning errors; it may take longer for scanners to recognize the QR code.
Add a logo or an image
Incorporating your business or brand logo into your customize QR code can make it more visually appealing and help customers identify it as being from your company.
Improve your QR code’s readability
Ensure that the code is large enough to be easily scanned, and avoid placing it in areas with low lighting. When printing, go for high-quality paper and avoid glossy ones.
Test the code
Before implementing the QR code in your marketing efforts, test it to ensure it can be easily scanned and redirected to the correct information.
A call to action always helps
Ensure to provide a clear call-to-action, ensure the landing page is mobile-friendly, and that the QR code leads to a specific action you want the user to take.
Use QR code generator services
Many free and paid QR code generator services are available online, making it easy to create custom QR codes. They usually provide tracking, analytics, and customization options to make your QR code more effective.
Where can you place your QR codes?
When it comes to using QR codes for customer engagement, QR code placement is critical.
Where and how you place your QR codes can significantly impact their effectiveness and the level of engagement they generate.
The following are various placement suggestions for QR codes to help you get the most out of your customer engagement efforts:
Business cards
Include a business card vCard QR code on your cards that directs customers to your website, social media profiles, or online store.
Since business cards are not spacious in nature, there are lots of information about yourself that you can't include in them. But storing it in a QR code, you can add just as many details as you want.
Brochures and flyers
Place QR codes on brochures and flyers that provide more information about your products or services or offer special promotions.
On storefronts
Display a QR code on your storefront that directs customers to your online store, menu, or daily specials.
On product packaging
Include a QR code on product packaging that provides information on ingredients, usage instructions, or promotions.
On receipts
Print a QR code on receipts that directs customers to customer satisfaction surveys or allows them to leave a review on your website or social media.
In-store promotions
Place QR codes on in-store promotions or displays that provide more information about the products or services or offer special discounts.
In-store kiosks or tablet
A QR code on a kiosk or tablet in the store can provide information on products and promotions or allow customers to make online orders or reservations.
On vehicles
Suppose your business has a delivery or service vehicle. Consider placing a QR code on the side or back of the car that directs customers to your website, social media profiles, or online store.
Tracking and Analytics
Use a QR code tracking service
Use Google Analytics or QR Code Management Platform to track the number of scans and the location of the scans. These services can also provide detailed analytics such as demographics, device information, and time of scans.
Track conversions
Track the number of scans that result in conversions, such as a purchase or newsletter sign-up. It will help you measure the effectiveness of your campaigns and identify which codes are performing the best.
Monitor engagement
Use the tracking service to gauge the engagement rate of your QR codes and compare the results to other marketing campaigns to determine which methods are most effective.
Analyze the location of scans
Use the location data provided by the tracking service to determine where your QR codes are being scanned and adjust your marketing efforts accordingly.
Test and optimize
Regularly test and optimize your QR codes by trying different designs, placements, and calls to action to see what works best. Also, make sure your QR code’s contents are up-to-date.
Survey your customers
Ask your customers how they found out about your business if they have scanned the QR code and their experience with it.
It will give you a better understanding of how customers are interacting with your QR codes and how to improve your campaigns.
Monitor the data
Continuously monitor the data provided by the tracking service. It will help you identify patterns and understand how your QR code campaigns impact your business and customers.
How can small businesses use QR codes?
Retail businesses
A retail business could use QR codes to provide customers with detailed product information, such as size and color options, reviews, and pricing.
The QR code can give customers special promotions or discounts or allow them to purchase directly from their mobile devices.
Restaurants
Restaurants can use QR codes to allow customers to view their menus, make reservations, or place takeout orders directly from their mobile devices. They can also use QR codes to give customers daily specials or discount coupon codes.
Service businesses
Service-based businesses, such as hair salons or automotive repair shops, can use QR codes to allow customers to schedule appointments or view pricing information.
Real estate
Real estate companies can use QR codes to provide potential buyers detailed information about properties, such as floor plans, virtual tours, or neighborhood information.
Events
Event organizers can use QR codes to provide attendees with detailed information about the event, such as schedule, speaker bios, or directions to the venue.
Non-profit organizations
Non-profit organizations can use QR codes to give donors detailed information about their cause, such as statistics, success stories, or ways to get involved. They can also run QR code-powered donation drives so people can donate in one scan.
Educational institutions
Educational institutions can use QR codes to provide students and parents detailed information about their programs, such as course schedules, tuition, or financial aid information. QR codes can also take students to multiple educational sources and learning materials.
Healthcare
Hospitals and clinics can use QR codes to provide patients with detailed information about their health, such as test results, prescriptions, or upcoming appointments.
Create a QR code for your business today
Small businesses should experiment with QR codes and see how they can benefit their business.
QR codes are an easy, quick, and cost-effective way for small businesses to connect with their customers and enhance their marketing efforts.
With so many free and paid QR code generator services and tracking tools available, there’s no reason not to try them. But you should go for the best choice out there.
Go to the free QR code generator and create a powerful campaign for your business.
