Common Mistakes with QR Codes for Business Cards
In today’s digital age, QR codes have become a popular way to share information and connect with others. When it comes to business cards, QR codes can be a valuable addition, allowing recipients to quickly and easily access your contact information, website, or social media profiles. However, there are several common mistakes that businesses make when using QR codes on their business cards.
1. Poor Placement
One of the most common mistakes is placing the QR code in a location that is difficult to scan. This can include placing it too close to the edge of the card, in a corner, or on a busy background that makes it hard to read. To avoid this mistake, place the QR code in a prominent location, such as the center of the card or on the back, where it can be easily scanned.
2. Incorrect Size
The size of the QR code is also important. If the QR code is too small, it may be difficult to scan, while a QR code that is too large may take up too much space on the card. A good rule of thumb is to make the QR code at least 1×1 inch in size, to ensure that it can be easily scanned.
3. Insufficient Error Correction
QR codes have built-in error correction, which allows them to be scanned even if they are damaged or distorted. However, if the error correction level is set too low, the QR code may not be scannable if it is damaged or worn. To avoid this mistake, make sure to set the error correction level to a high enough level, such as H or Q, to ensure that the QR code can be scanned even if it is damaged.
4. Lack of Testing
Another common mistake is not testing the QR code before printing the business cards. This can result in a QR code that does not scan properly, or that links to the wrong website or information. To avoid this mistake, test the QR code on multiple devices and platforms before printing the business cards.
5. Not Providing Instructions
Some people may not be familiar with QR codes or may not know how to scan them. To avoid this mistake, consider providing instructions on how to scan the QR code, such as "Scan with your smartphone to visit our website" or "Use a QR code reader app to connect with us on social media".
6. Linking to the Wrong Information
The QR code should link to the most relevant and up-to-date information about your business. This can include your website, social media profiles, or contact information. To avoid this mistake, make sure to link the QR code to the correct information, and update it regularly to ensure that it remains current.
7. Not Tracking Analytics
Finally, many businesses fail to track the analytics of their QR codes, which can provide valuable insights into how many people are scanning the code and what devices they are using. To avoid this mistake, use a QR code generator that provides analytics, such as the number of scans, device type, and location.
Best Practices
To get the most out of your QR code business cards, follow these best practices:
- Use a high-quality QR code generator that provides error correction and analytics.
- Test the QR code on multiple devices and platforms before printing the business cards.
- Place the QR code in a prominent location, such as the center of the card or on the back.
- Provide instructions on how to scan the QR code.
- Link the QR code to the most relevant and up-to-date information about your business.
- Track the analytics of your QR code to gain insights into how it is being used.
By following these best practices and avoiding common mistakes, you can create effective QR code business cards that help you connect with customers and grow your business.