QR codes turn moments into action.
Instead of hoping someone remembers your ad or looks you up later, give them a way to act right now. It only takes one scan to have a direct path to connection.
QR codes are fast, convenient, and, when used correctly, a smart tool in modern marketing strategies. Our marketing team saw this firsthand at the Midwest Digital Marketing Conference in St. Louis this week. Every booth and brand seemed to have one, yet it didn’t seem overwhelming.
It worked because marketers extended what happened in person into a complete digital experience. A scan led to a free gift and download. Another scan led to a LinkedIn profile. One pointed to a reservation system for a private event. People were encouraging digital follow-up without losing the personal touch.
Let’s discuss when QR codes make sense, when they don’t, and how to use them to encourage your audience to take action.
Best Uses for QR Codes in Marketing
QR codes should make life easier. When they don’t, they’re not doing their job. Every QR code you use should create a clear path from curiosity to action.
Here are some smart and effective ways to use them:
1. Events and Conferences
Events move fast. You rarely have time to share everything before the next conversation starts. However, you know you’ve already got someone’s attention, so give them an easy way to act.
QR codes on event signage, booths, slide shows, or printed materials can link to follow-up resources, free downloads, speaker decks, or even a simple contact form. By doing this, you remove friction and make it simple for people to connect long after the presentation. People can scan the code in the moment or take a photo of the code to connect with you on their own time.
2. Print Ads and Mailers
QR codes take a static experience and make it interactive. Link to a custom landing page, sign-up form, appointment booking, product information, or a limited-time offer. Print materials do the introduction, and the code keeps the conversation going.
3. Retail and Office Spaces
You have an opportunity to continue the conversation even after someone walks out your door. Use a well-placed QR code to encourage sign-ups for your email list, share exclusive offers, or collect quick feedback. People appreciate being able to take action without remembering a website later.
4. Product Packaging
Product packaging has the potential to add value without needing more shelf space. A QR code placed on a product label, inside the box, or on an insert card guides your customer to that extra value.
Link to care instructions, setup tutorials, or a thank-you message from your team. Invite customers to sign up for a rewards program or explore add-ons that go with their purchase. Post-purchase touchpoints follow up with customers and show you’re still invested in the experience. When you show up with value and support, you increase retention and build long-term brand trust.
5. Welcome Packets and Handouts
Give your audience an easy way to take the next step. Use a QR code in your post-tour welcome packet or printed handout to link directly to an enrollment form, intro video, FAQ page, or customer portal. Guide people to a clean, focused resource that keeps the momentum going. Make it easy for your audience to access the next step the moment they’re ready.
6. Job Applications and Hiring Materials
Speed up your hiring process by using QR codes on job flyers, signage, or business cards. Link directly to an online application, position description, or interview scheduling form. Encourage potential candidates to apply on the spot without having to search.
7. Customer Reviews and Feedback
Motivate customers to leave a review while the experience is still fresh. Use a QR code from platforms like Google to send them straight to your review page. Place it on receipts, signage near exits, or thank-you cards. A quick scan can turn a good experience into a visible testimonial that builds trust with future customers.
When Not to Use QR Codes
Not every place is the right place. Here are examples of when QR codes lose their effectiveness.
1. Websites, Emails, or Social Media Posts
People are already online. A clickable link is faster and more effective than asking them to scan a code from their screen.
2. Fast-Moving or Low-Attention Areas
People can do a lot with their phones, but safely scanning a QR code while driving isn’t one of them. Billboards on busy roads or posters in fast-paced environments rarely offer enough time to scan. Stick to places where your audience can actually pause, pull out their phone, and scan without turning it into a high-stakes game of reflexes.
3. Redundant Touchpoints
If you have already provided a clear call to action, adding another one may confuse the message. Keep things clean and focused.
Use QR codes when they streamline the experience. Avoid them when they complicate it.
4. No Clear Context
Never place a QR code without explaining where it leads or why someone should scan it. People hesitate when approached with unclear messaging (as they should, scammers are everywhere).
5. Generic or Frequently Updated Pages
Don’t link to a homepage or any page you update often. Your QR Code should work like a call-to-action, and a homepage will likely distract people from the specific action you want them to take. Build a dedicated page or landing page with one clear pathway or form. Keep the experience simple to avoid confusion.
6. When Your audience is Not likely to Use it
Know who you are targeting. If your target audience is less familiar with smartphones or does not frequently use their camera to interact with printed material, they’ll likely ignore the code. Use a method that matches their habits and provides a more accessible alternative that fits their comfort level.
7. When the content is all you need
Don’t use a code if the information fits clearly on the page or folder and does not require a follow-up. Use a simple written explanation or direct contact details if the space allows. A QR code shouldn’t replace information that is already easy to see and understand.
Scan QR Codes from Trusted Sources Only
Never scan a risky QR code.
Unfortunately, scammers know people are more comfortable with QR codes than they used to be. They’ve started using fake ones to trick users into visiting phishing sites or downloading dangerous files. Only scan QR codes from businesses or people you trust.
If your company uses QR codes, be intentional about where, how, and why they appear. Include your logo or business name near the code. Let people know what they’re scanning and why it’s safe. Don’t give anyone a reason to second-guess it.
As a general rule, never scan a code from an unmarked flyer, random sticker, or anything that feels out of place.
Making Marketing Interactive
QR codes work best when used for a specific purpose. A strong strategy turns attention into action and makes your message easier to act on. At the conference, we watched marketers turn a conversation or presentation into a digital connection that lasted after we left the room.
At Vervocity, we help businesses turn small interactions into meaningful results. We build strategies that match your goals and meet your audience where they are. If you’re ready to simplify your message and drive more engagement, we’re ready to help.
Let’s make your message easier to reach and harder to ignore. Contact us today to schedule a time to talk.
