People are now using their smartphones more than ever, thanks to the introduction of stronger and faster technologies.
QR codes have been around for years, and marketers have discussed whether they are the next big thing or are at the risk of collapsing.
But we’re, seeing the return of the basic QR code once more.
As companies look to make their everyday activities as safe and contactless as possible.
It’s all about having instant access to everything.
Delivering information from one person to another or from a company to a customer.
The QR code is one of the most popular marketing channels worldwide. Mobile devices can scan and understand QR (Quick Response) Codes.
Marketers use QR codes on billboards, publications, websites, pamphlets, and other promotion tools.
QR codes can instantly provide extra information about a product or service, and the information is sent to the user’s device.
QR codes, in fact, increase mobile phone communication and involvement.
This type of marketing strategy allows organizations to communicate with their customers.
Users have had it with anything that is slow and time-consuming these days. In the world of marketing, it’s all about being instant and quick.
WHAT IS A QR CODE?
QR codes are just squares with black and white symbols on them.
HOW TO CREATE A QR CODE?
A number of QR code generators are available.
Let’s imagine you want to use the QR code to send someone to a specific product page.
You’d choose “URL” as the content type and paste your link into the following form.
The generator will also allow you to choose between static and dynamic code.
Dynamic codes, unlike static codes, allow you to change the information after you’ve produced the QR code.
When you need to change the details after the generator has written your code and you’ve shared it, dynamic codes come in handy.
For example, if the start time for an event changes, you can simply update the information in the QR code. You won’t have to start over and worry about it.
USES OF QR CODES IN SMALL BUSINESSES:
Following are some points where you can maximize the marketing strategies and increase the performance of your brand overall.
- Customers are directed to a landing page/website.
- Call your company’s phone number.
- Send an email
- Installing apps
- View the location of the company
- Direct customers to social media pages.
- E-commerce and shopping
How to use QR codes for small business
Customers expect businesses to provide contactless transactions as a result of COVID-19.
Companies all throughout the country are looking for ways to restrict client touch in their daily operations.
QR codes have evolved into a technique to answer client complaints.
While QR codes are useful for marketing, they also indicate that you care about your consumers’ safety and are actively looking for methods to incorporate contact-less methods.
During COVID-19, here are some examples of small businesses that employed QR codes to improve the customer experience.
Restaurant menus and ordering are available without the use of a phone.
To display your entire menu, create an online form (like this pizza order form) and a QR code.
Then, outside the restaurant and in related marketing assets, put a sign inviting potential customers to scan the QR code and view the menu on their phones.
The potential diner can make conclusions and judgments about the restaurant before even entering it.
They may look at the menu before deciding whether or not they want to eat there, and they can be comfortable that the restaurant is taking safety procedures.
PayPal’s touchless payment system
Mobile wallets were already gaining acceptance before the outbreak. Apple, Google, and Samsung all released their own versions.
By tokenizing transactions, mobile wallets provide an added layer of security for shoppers.
In this case, if a business gets hacked, the credit card number will not be revealed.
PayPal just implemented QR codes for touch-free payments, taking mobile wallets one step further.
Small business owners may now create a PayPal-generated QR code that consumers can scan to transfer payment.
According to PayPal, the QR codes will be placed on product packaging, store windows, and point-of-sale areas.
Enhancing the customer experience
QR codes can be used for more than just ordering food or making contactless payments. They can also be used as a source of amusement.
The Soho, for example, uses QR codes to create an experience.
Diners who buy takeout can watch a live performance at the restaurant by scanning the QR code on the back of the menu.
Another QR code on the menu allows people to view repeated footage from the pub as well as an hour-long music session.
The complete package is a wonderful method for one small business to provide its customers with a restaurant experience from the comfort of their own homes.
Unfortunately, contactless purchasing will not be phased out anytime soon.
When employing contactless technology like QR codes, organizations must learn to be adaptable and inventive.
Consider how you may go beyond simply providing a link to your website and create a unique experience that will keep your clients coming back for more.
