Mobile Marketing as a means of communication has been on the rise since SMS (short message service) became popular in the early 2000s. When used correctly, wireless media can provide customers with personalized information on the spot that promotes a good or service for virtually no cost at all. In fact, according to a recent research survey conducted by the Mobile Marketing Association, 25% of consumers are more likely to respond to advertising if they are able to do so via a mobile response such as an SMS shortcode. With over 97% of Americans using mobile devices, entrepreneurs are finding creative ways to capitalize on this demographic. We will focus this article on the use of QR codes as a marketing tool, as most smartphones can scan them nowadays. Even QR codes can benefit from pairing them with social media marketing. To boost social media marketing efforts, you should use websites like JayNike.
QR Codes
QR codes, or quick response codes, are two-dimensional barcodes that have the ability to hold thousands of alphanumeric characters of information. They are an inexpensive way to provide on-the-spot access to resources through the means of text, URL links, phone numbers, or SMS. QR codes allow customers to learn more about a company instantly through the use of their mobile devices.
The process is simple. With the proper app installed, a customer can simply scan or take a picture of your customized QR code with their smartphone, and the code will provide the relevant linked information via mobile web.
One of the many benefits of QR codes is that they can be printed on virtually anything. Codes on business cards can provide information about a company, link to a company’s website, or provide details regarding the company’s location. Codes on the point of sale receipts can link to special promotional offers, exclusive discounts, or coupons for future purchases. Codes on marketing materials can link users to social media IDs such as a Twitter account or Facebook page in order to generate traffic and provide further information. The possibilities are endless.
Here are a few other creative ways to incorporate QR codes into your business:
Scavenger Hunts: Scavenger hunts are an engaging way to direct customers to places they normally wouldn’t traffic. Just place QR codes with different clues linked to them around your office, building, or city and offer a prize for the winner. Not only will this introduce people to your company, but it will also be a fun way to connect with potential customers.
T-shirts: Print a batch of t-shirts with your personalized QR code on them and send people wearing them to an event (sports game, street fair, etc…). This is a great way to interact with people as well as spread awareness about your company or product.
Window Displays: Place a QR code in the storefront of your business to link potential customers to online shopping. Your store hours will no longer hinder people from wanting to shop at all hours of the night! Or, place them in the window of your restaurant to allow people to make reservations for a later date!
Customer Surveys: Place a QR code on a receipt that brings customers to a survey about their recent purchase or experience. This is a quick and easy way to see your patrons’ desires and satisfaction in the transaction and help you make future sales based on their reports.
Advertisements: Put a QR code on an advertisement linking pedestrians and website traffic to music downloads, a place to buy concert tickets, directions to a specific location, or videos.
How To Create and Scan QR Codes
There are many QR code generators available on the internet. A simple Google search will provide a multitude of options to use. Matt Gallizzi, CEO of NotixTech, and QR code expert suggests using Bit.ly for small businesses because it is free and includes informational statistics about the code. Here are some simple instructions from his website for creating your own code:
- Go to bit.ly
- Type in your URL and click “Shorten”
- Click “Info Page+”
- Right-click on the QR code on the right-hand side and click, “Save Image As…” and save it to your computer.
- Open in your image program of choice.
- Revisit the Info Page+ for analytics
The most important aspect of using QR codes for your small business is to be creative! Your options are limitless! QR codes are both empowering and engaging, so provide your customers with an unforgettable experience that sets you apart from other companies!