QR CODES FOR BUSINESS ~ Have you used one lately?

Quick Response Codes – commonly known as QR Codes – were first invented in Japan over a decade ago, where they were used by automotive industries to help track inventory and production. They have become increasingly popular in the U.S. over the last couple of years, and it’s easy to see why. These little square icons offer a wealth of information to anyone using a smart phone, acting as a quick, convenient, and extremely cheap alternative or complement to full-page advertisements and more traditional marketing avenues. Codes can be placed on a variety of materials (from posters and print ads to business cards) and can link to virtually any URL address. When utilized correctly, these codes can bring in business, increase a brand’s visibility, and attract new (or repeat) clients.

So how do QR Codes work?

How does one little square accomplish so much? When someone using a smart phone scans the QR code (note: a free and quick download of a QR reading app for smart phones is required), they are taken to the online space chosen by the company. Once there, further information or incentives are provided. It is custom advertising at its simplest: instead of taking up a lot of physical space in the initial advertisement, a company can list basic information, include dialogue to draw in curious viewers, and then provide a bar code that brings visitors to a fuller, more engaging online space dedicated specifically to the topic at hand.

For example: say your company is about to sponsor a big event and wants to reach as many people as possible. You might create a brochure or other form of handout with some eye-catching material, and include a QR Code somewhere on the page. Viewers who scan this code are taken to a mobile site dedicated specifically to this event – the particular details can be included, a special discount can be offered, and links pertinent to the event and people involved can be accessed from one central location. Or maybe your company’s Facebook page is listed, and there is an opportunity to enter a special online drawing. You get the idea!

Here are some good places to add a QR code:
-Brochures
-Programs
-Newsletters
-Business cards
-Storefront windows
-White papers/tutorials
-Flyers
-T-Shirts

And here are a handful of possible uses:
-Advertisement for upcoming event
-Discounts
-Limited-time offers
-Thank-you (reward points) for loyal customers
-Foursquare (or other check-in services) code
-Link to follow your company on social media platforms

During the final days of 2012, since we are passionate about on-line repuations ~ MARKIT Group is offering a special bonus to selected fans: we will create a custom rating and review card for your business and include a QR code to take users to a popular review site of your choosing where they can rate your business  (for example: Yelp, Google Places or your custom rating and review site). The more positive reviews your business can generate, the better! 

Asking your customers to take a few minutes to contribute a good review is a valuable means of increasing brand visibility and getting customers and potential customers involved with your product.

Here’s a recent custom review card we created for an automotive client that can easily have a QR Code added ->

Are you using QR codes in your advertising? Are you having success or marketing challenges? Anyone who joins the conversation will be eligible for a free custom designed rating and review card with your Dealership logo and details - including your QR code. 

Get the QR conversation started on dealerELITE today!

Happy Marketing ~ AutoSTARR