If you're wondering if you should put a QR code on your business card, you've come to the right place.
Although the digital age has drastically changed the business landscape, approx27 million business cardsthey are still printed daily in the United States itself. That equates to a staggering $10 billion a year. They are cheap, portable and canincrease sales by 2.5%for every 2,000 cards distributed. Of course, it's not much, but remember that small hinges open big doors.
You might think that business cards are a thing of the past and a relic of the old days. This is definitely not the case, especially if you choose to add a modern touch – a QR code. In this way, you can transform a banal business card into a digital platform with great functionality.
In this article we will look at what a QR code is and howbusiness cardwith the QR code works, what it can lead to and whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of having it on your business card. Let's begin.
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What is a QR code?
A quick response code or QR code is a type of barcode, machine-readable optical label that contains information. These small square codes are capable of storing a lot of data and can be easily read using the device's digital camera. In short, they act as a bridge between the real and digital worlds.
In the most basic sense, there are two basic types of QR codes.
- Static QR code.The information is encoded directly into the QR code itself. The data is hard-coded and cannot be modified or scan activity tracked.
- Dynamic QR code.Unlike a static QR code, a short redirect URL is encoded in them. The information can be changed without entering a new code. Scanning activity can be tracked.
Information can be accessed immediately, hence the name. Today, most phones have a built-in QR code reader. If yours doesn't, there are plenty of options in the app stores that are easy to find, use, and download.
How to use QR codes?
From the user's point of view, nothing is easier. Simply open the app and calmly point the camera for 2-3 seconds at the code. The data from the QR code - be it contact information, a Twitter account or a website - will immediately and automatically appear on the screen of your device. It's a fun way to share information about your business. You can do a lot of other awesome things with these cheats, but more on that later.
According toStatista 2021 survey59% of the 1,100 US respondents believed that QR codes would be part of their use of mobile devices in the future, with only 11% disagreeing. In addition, there were QR codesmost popular among people aged 18-29.
As you can see, while some may consider standard business cards a bit old fashioned, a small and discreet addition like a QR code can change the world and even attract younger generations to your business.
Are QR codes practical?
One of the main reasons why QR codes are gaining popularity is the convenience of use and multi-functionality. In addition to being a great marketing tool, they provide an easy way to add additional information to what you already have on your listing. This is a cost-effective and user-friendly feature that eliminates the need to search, visit a website or store a phone number, saving you time.
According to anotherStatista survey 2020, 32% of the 2,197 US and UK respondents said they had scanned a QR code in the past week.
As QR codes become an increasingly common sight in our daily lives, let's take a look at how their growing popularity can be used to grow your business.
What can the QR code on my business card lead to?
In addition to instant access to contact information (phone number, email or vCard) you want to share with your customers, a QR code can be encoded to do much more. With QR codes, you can make your listing more efficient and make it easier for potential customers to add information on their devices, learn more about your business, or access samples of your work.
But before we get into what QR code business cards can do, you need to understand what works best for your business. To do this, you need to know your audience. Are they business cards from your customers, partners or suppliers? Determining who, where and why should receive QR code business cards is the best way to ensure that they will be effective.
Without further ado, here's what you can pair a QR code with.
- Your company's contact information.Create a QR code containing your contact information. Sure, it sounds simple enough, but it helps you avoid the hassle of entering all the information manually. Makes it easy to work online - just scan and save.
- Various social media platforms. An easy way to grow your social media accounts and build brand awareness. This way you can get more followers and inform your future customers about the latest offers, promotions and other news.
- Offers, discounts or gifts.Your business card will be more valuable if it offers something to its owner. Attract new customers by giving them a chance to do a little more. Everyone loves freebies and discounts, especially if they are a scan away.
- Invitation to events, workshops or conferences.It's the best way to invite guests to your event without having to do the tedious work of entering data yourself. After scanning the QR code, a message will appear asking you to add and save the event to your calendar. It's that simple.
- Preset location.If you want to invite potential customers to your location, QR codes are the way to go. Thanks to scanning, your customer can easily find your location.
- your wallet.Your work speaks volumes. There is no better way for potential clients to get to know you than through your work. The business card can contain a link to a cloud storage, a web address or an online gallery.
- Message or email template. To encourage customers to request a quote, ask a specific question, or submit feedback, create a template that appears after scanning the QR code.
QR codes can be configured to do extraordinary things and these are just a few ideas, but really the sky is the limit. If you're going to an event or conference looking for more customers, having a legible QR code business card in your pocket will definitely set you apart from the competition and is a great way to expand your social network, attract more customers and offer your services .
Business card with QR code – is it a bad idea?
There is no simple answer - it all depends on the industry you operate in. Some like it, but for others who are not tech-savvy, the QR code can seem like a rather useless thing that takes up a lot of space and makes other details difficult to read. But people are picking up digital skills faster than ever, and they might just be trying to see where the fun code leads.
What's more, thanks to the dynamic QR codes, you can easily track the results and see the number of scans, the time they were taken and the operating system of the device you are using. There are QR code generators that allow you to see the data in real time so you can track the results and make changes if something isn't working.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of QR codes on business cards?
There is no doubt that business cards are a quick and cheap way to exchange information. A masterfully designed business card is a personal, expressive and effective marketing tool. However, like everything else, they have their own limits and limitations, but this is where QR codes come in.
Now that we've learned what QR codes are and what they can do for your business, let's look at some of their pros and cons so you can decide if they're right for you.
Advantages of QR codes.
- It saves time and stimulates action. A quick way to share information and encourage engagement. You can add a call to action such as "Contact me", "Buy now" or "Request more information".
- If a dynamic QR code is used, it can be changed and tracked at any time. A great way to measure engagement.
- An economical and efficient way to accelerate marketing activities and gain a technological advantage over competitors.
- User-friendly mobile apps. QR code scanners are easy to use and give your customers instant access to a large amount of information.
- Easy to set up and customize. A way to say more with less.
The disadvantages of QR codes.
- If your potential buyers are not tech savvy, they may get confused. Remember that there are people who prefer to do things the old way.
- It takes up valuable space on a standard business card.
- Not suitable for every business. It depends on the services you offer.
- The reason for the QR code must be well thought out. This can take time and effort.
- Some people believe that QR codes are a poor aesthetic choice. Make sure it matches the overall design of the business card.
If done right, these codes can make your business card more effective, making communication faster, easier and more convenient. However, it really depends on the industry you are in, your goal and the audience you have. It's worth weighing these pros and cons and see if these small but powerful codes will work well for your business.
How to make a business card with a QR code?
A simple Google search will result in many free onesQR code generators. Just designing and adding a QR code to your business card is a fairly simple process.
You can find a QR code generator designed specifically for business cards. E.g,Adobe Sparkoffers various business card templates and also allows you to add a QR code. If you're looking for static QR codes, this is itQRTigerit is a good choice. Sure, you can also create dynamic QR codes, but only if you subscribe to their service. Or, if you're an entrepreneur with little marketing capital, the free versionQR tingis one of the best. With it you can create as many static QR codes as you want.
As you can see, there are many tools available. However, their functionality, price and features vary, so before choosing your favorite QR code generator, make sure what your requirements are and whether it fits your budget.
Each tool includes instructions so its users know what steps to take. No artistic skills or knowledge required. You can easily create a QR code for your business card with just a few clicks.
Usually, most of these generators require a few simple steps.
- Choose what the QR code leads to.This can be a website, a LinkedIn account or a vCard.
- Enter details. This may include your contact details, internet address and other details required by the generator to function properly.
- Choose color and logo. Make an impression and make it colorful. Some tools allow you to add a logo to match your brand and change the color of the code itself.
- Download and test. Once you're happy with the design, download and save your copy. If you want to print on business cards, choose any vector format, such as SVG. This way you can easily scale it to fit your business card design without losing quality or resolution.
Frequently asked questions
What are the two basic types of QR codes and what are they for?
There are static QR codes and dynamic QR codes. In static QR codes, the information is hard-coded and cannot be changed or scanning activity tracked. Dynamic QR codes allow for much more functionality. Scanning activity can be tracked and information can be changed. However, they require an active subscription.
Is it hard to create QR codes?
Not at all. Just find an online QR code generator and follow its instructions.
Is it worth putting a QR code on a business card?
Like everything else in business, it all depends on the area you operate in. If your customers are tech-savvy and you have a good idea of where the code will lead, go for it. Definitely worth it.
Is it expensive to create a QR code for a business card?
Not really, but it all depends on what kind of QR code you want and what functionality you're looking for. There is a cost to subscribing to dynamic QR codes, but if it helps your business in the long run, the cost is negligible.
What can QR codes lead to?
They can lead to many things – your contact information, social media platforms, locations, your portfolio, etc. The only limit is your imagination.
Key taken
Convenience counts in the 21st century. A well-designed business card with a QR code that adds value and saves time is a useful marketing tool. If you place the code on your business card and people know what to expect when they scan it, your business will definitely benefit.
We hope this overview helped you decide whether to put a QR code on your business card.Here are the most important things to keep in mind.
- Weigh the pros and cons and understand if it will be beneficial for you.
- Make it something. Only add code when it adds value to your customers.
- Always be aware of what it is doing and where it is going.
- Make sure it doesn't take up too much space and leaves enough space for other details.
- If your customers are not tech savvy, skip this and save them the trouble.
Whether you're a small business, an artist looking for a job, or a restaurant owner, a QR code can benefit you in a variety of ways. It can make your listing stand out, show you're tech savvy, encourage engagement, increase your followers and increase your sales.
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Leon Walker
Leon is a professional copywriter, translator and interpreter. She enjoys reading, writing and helping people understand each other better.
FAQs
Business card with QR code | Everything you need to know? ›
Are QR codes on a business card good or bad? If I had to pick just one option, it's clear: these are an excellent addition to any business card. They're easy to add and a breeze to maintain, thanks to tools like Blinq. Remember: the QR code is the bridge to your digital business card.
Is a QR code on a business card a good idea? ›Are QR codes on a business card good or bad? If I had to pick just one option, it's clear: these are an excellent addition to any business card. They're easy to add and a breeze to maintain, thanks to tools like Blinq. Remember: the QR code is the bridge to your digital business card.
What is a business card with QR code for? ›The Benefits of Using QR Codes on Business Cards
Using the vCard Plus QR Code on your business card means potential clients or employers can add your contact information to their mobile devices without the hassle of manually typing it in. All they need to do is scan and save.
Now it's time to incorporate your QR card into your business card's design. It's best to put it off to the side so that it doesn't block the printed text, but it should still catch the eye. Make sure that the trim around the QR code is straight and even, as you don't want your code too close to the edge.
Are QR codes better than business cards? ›Unlike traditional business cards that gets usually thrown away in the dust bin, the evolution of vCard QR codes allow your recipient to save your information right away to their smartphone device once scanned. They don't have to manually type your contact details.
What are the risks of QR code? ›- Malware Attacks. Scammers can easily create a QR code, add the logo for the Google or Apple app stores, and paste them wherever. ...
- Phishing Attacks. Also known as “QRishing,” there are several ways scanning a QR code can expose you to phishing. ...
- Your Location Might be Compromised.
| Quantity | Price per Business Card | Pack Price |
|---|---|---|
| 100 | $0.42 | $42.00 |
| 200 | $0.36 | $73.00 $84.00 |
| 400 | $0.32 | $128.00 $168.00 |
| For more quantities and pricing visit our Shipping and Cost Calculator |
Paper Digital QR Code Visiting card, Size: 88.9 mm X 50.8 mm at Rs 499/piece in Mumbai.
Can a QR code replace a business card? ›A great way to make QR Codes for business cards is by using a vCard Plus QR Code, which is a digital version of a business card. The benefit though is that it holds even more information than a traditional business card because you don't have a space limitation.
Do people scan QR codes on business cards? ›A business card with a QR Code is easily the most convenient way to share your personal or company's contact information. All users have to do is scan the QR Code, view contact details, and save them on their smartphones within a few minutes.
How do I promote my business with QR codes? ›
- Include a QR Code at the end of the email signature.
- Use QR Codes to educate your customers by encouraging them to scan it and watch know-how videos or engaging them in fun games.
- Embed QR Codes on your physical and online advertising material.
The ideal QR code size for business cards is roughly 0.8 x 0.8”. This assumes a standard-sized business card of 9 x 5 cm or 3.5 x 2”.
What can a small business do with a QR code? ›- QR codes are great for analytics. Dynamic QR codes offer excellent tracking capabilities. ...
- QR codes make data collection easy. ...
- QR codes enable customer self-service. ...
- Connect online and offline media with QR codes.
While there are many different business card material types, generally, 14 Pt cardstock is the go-to industry standard for most businesses when asked what the best paper for business cards is. It is essentially a thicker and more durable form of printer paper.
What not to do with QR codes? ›QR Codes should never be placed in locations that make them difficult or dangerous to scan. Use easy-to-read QR codes: Larger QR codes ensure the pattern is clear and easily readable by the scanning device. QR codes that are too small or obscure make it more difficult for the scanner to read.
Can a QR code be a security risk? ›Another problem with QR codes is that hackers can easily replace a legitimate QR code with a malicious one. For example, if a restaurant provides QR codes that link to its menus, an attacker could simply create stickers containing malicious QR codes and then place those stickers on top of the legitimate QR codes.
What information can a QR code collect? ›The data stored in a QR code can include website URLs, phone numbers, or up to 4,000 characters of text. QR codes can also be used to: Link directly to download an app on the Apple App Store or Google Play. Authenticate online accounts and verify login details.
Do QR codes collect my personal information and data? ›That's right, QR codes are more than a convenient way to pull up a URL, they actually are able to transmit personal data like a phone number or email address, along with how often the user might be scanning the code in question.
What is the FBI warning about QR codes? ›The FBI recently issued a QR code warning that says criminals are putting stickers of fake QR codes over real ones. Investigators say this fraud is happening at restaurants, banks, through emails, and even parking meters across the country.
Can a QR code steal information? ›Scammers can tamper with QR codes in order to steal your personal or financial information. In some cases they paste a fake QR code over the real ones, or they may send you a QR code directly, via text or email, and say it's linked to a free gift or coupon.
Do QR codes expire? ›
Technically, a QR code doesn't “expire.” Like static QR codes, they're just a matrix of squares that contain information. But because dynamic QR codes can be made to redirect to any new information at chosen times, they can effectively expire.
How long do Vistaprint QR codes last? ›Do QR codes expire? No. QR Codes do not have a lifespan. A QR Code can be scanned any number of times and they do not expire.
Do business cards have QR code in front or back? ›The QR code is usually placed on the back of the business card. If there is enough space and the graphic design allows it, it can of course also be placed on the front (text side). As minimum size of the QR Code we recommend 18 x 18 mm. The more information the code should contain, the larger the image should be.
How much does 1 business card cost? ›For the standard 3.5” x 2” business card size, when ordering 500 custom business cards, the average cost per business card is around $0.06-$0.24.
Do people hand out business cards anymore? ›While you may think business cards are of the past, they're still used for networking and marketing. Business cards help make a lasting impression with a business prospect and help build your future.
Are business cards still relevant in 2023? ›A quick and brief answer is yes. And here are several reasons for this: They are still the best and most natural approach to network and promote oneself.
Are people still using business cards? ›Put simply: yes, digital business cards are here to stay. The humble paper business card is so limited and causes numerous headaches. From title changes and typos to printing delays and waste, they are simply not an effective way of networking.
Do Millennials like QR codes? ›Research from the June edition of PYMNTS' Digital Divide study, “The Digital Divide: Technology, Customer Service and Innovation in the Restaurant Industry,” found that millennials were the only age group for which more than half agreed that viewing a menu with a QR code contributed positively to the experience.
How do QR codes increase sales? ›As QR codes need to be scanned by your customers using their smartphones, you make them more involved with your brand. It triggers your customers to take action and anticipate what information they will see once they scan the QR code.
What are the benefits of a QR code? ›QR codes offer multiple benefits to businesses, such as increased exposure, inexpensive advertising, data collection, convenience to customers and enhanced brand recognition. QR codes can also save time and money for consumers by providing quick and easy access to information.
What are the best practices for QR code size? ›
In theory, QR Codes can be as big/small as you'd like them to be. There is no maximum or minimum possible QR Code size. But, again, if you want your QR Codes to be as small as possible, we recommend a 1 cm x 1 cm size. This ensures that they occupy the least possible space while also being scannable for users.
Does a QR code need a white background? ›To make sure that your QR Code is scannable, stick with a light colored background and dark foreground.
How many characters can a QR code hold? ›QR Code is capable of handling all types of data, such as numeric and alphabetic characters, Kanji, Kana, Hiragana, symbols, binary, and control codes. Up to 7,089 characters can be encoded in one symbol.
Can anyone take money from QR code? ›Notably, QR code is only scanned to send money and not to receive money. So, when people scan someone's QR code under the pretext of receiving the money and enter OTP, the money gets deducted from their account instead of the sender.
Do QR codes cost money to make? ›Static QR Codes are free, whereas dynamic QR Codes cost as low as $5 a month.
Can I make money from a QR code? ›To start making money online, you need to be using the proper tools. QR Codes help you out with digital marketing. A QR Code can display all the content you need – images, videos, text, or a custom landing page. The neat thing is that you can even change the contents of the code later without printing it again.
What are the pros cons of QR code marketing? ›QR codes save the company money on printing materials and provide accurate analytics of the effectiveness of outdoor advertising and product locations. The major disadvantage of QR codes is that they are not accessible to everyone. Some people do not know how to use them or are simply not ready for this technology.
What is the most important part of a QR code? ›The most important parts of a QR code are: Data module. This is the standard unit of the QR code. It's typically a black square set against a white background.
Do I need a QR code for my small business? ›Small businesses can use dynamic QR Codes to track campaign metrics such as the number of scans, scan demographics, best/worst performing campaigns, and much more. This allows you to optimize your existing marketing campaigns and improve the ROI for your business.
Are digital business cards worth it? ›Are digital business cards worth it for your networking? Yes, digital business cards are absolutely worth it. These virtual networking tools can help you maximize your networking efforts in a contactless, cost-effective, and eco-friendly manner.
What makes an impressive business card? ›
Aside from your name and job title, add your business name, telephone number, website, email address, and social media handles. Make sure you include all of this information on your business card so customers can easily contact you the way they feel most comfortable.
What are the 2 types of business card? ›- Card stock. Cardstock is a common type of paper used for business cards, though it may be called cover stock by some printing companies. ...
- Matte stock. ...
- Glossy stock. ...
- Photo card stock. ...
- Textured.
QR codes have become very handy in different aspects of people's lives and even in the business and marketing sector. With the current pandemic, QR codes have been very useful in delivering timely information in a form of contactless way.
Should you trust QR codes? ›As a general rule, don't scan QR codes that are sent to you in emails. If you think an online purchase didn't go through, log into your account directly on the company's website instead of using a QR code. Warning signs of a QR code phishing email scam: Any QR code embedded in an unsolicited email can be a scam.
Are QR codes a good idea? ›Benefits of QR Code usage in 2022
A QR Code is capable of storing up to 4,296 characters, making them a viable tool for various industry verticals. A QR Code can be used for inventory management, mobile marketing, product packaging, contact tracing, and even for print advertising.
QR codes themselves don't pose an intrinsic data security risk, but the digital target they refer to does. Here are some ways scammers and hackers exploit QR codes: Social engineering or phishing attacks: Clicking on a malicious link is the same as scanning a malicious QR code leading to the same link.
Do QR codes ever expire? ›Technically, a QR code doesn't “expire.” Like static QR codes, they're just a matrix of squares that contain information. But because dynamic QR codes can be made to redirect to any new information at chosen times, they can effectively expire.
Can QR codes wipe out your bank account? ›The FBI is warning that cybercriminals have tampered with QR codes to steal consumers' login, financial information and money.
Can QR codes track you? ›Dynamic QR Codes are trackable, meaning that once they are completed, records of their usage will start being tracked. This includes information such as the location of the scan, the number of scans, what time the scans took place, as well as the operating system of the device used.
What is better than a QR code? ›standard software: NFC does not require the installation of a reader app; morecontents: an NFC Tag can contain more information than a QR code; they are better in cases that require more data to be stored, such as providing video content or product discounts.
What are three advantages of using QR code? ›
- They are safe. The pandemic has shifted the way businesses communicate with their customers. ...
- They are quick. ...
- They hold more data. ...
- They direct customers straight away. ...
- They increase engagement. ...
- Direct customers to landing pages. ...
- Streamline ordering. ...
- Share business information.
The information stored in a QR Code is usually URLs. Still, you can store anything, from contact data to calendar data, email addresses, phone numbers, SMS opening, plain text, and geolocation.
What happens when you take a picture of a QR code? ›Scan QR code on Android
Once your camera views the code, it will automatically read and complete the action.