QR codes…say what? Quick Response code. It works like the bar codes on items you buy at the store. A QR code reader scans the QR code and opens up the link to information.
If you could direct someone to one page on the internet to learn more about you…where would you send them?
- Your LinkedIn profile?
- Your website or blog?
- Your about.me page?
- Your Facebook profile or page?
- Your YouTube video or channel?
- Your vCard?
- A Google doc…
Chris Brogan has talks about having a “Home Base” which is sort of what I am talking about.
Where would I put this QR Code thing?
Your business card is the best place. It will make it super easy for people on the move to scan your QR code and take the info you want them to see without passing paper.
Could you put one on your resume? Sure, I guess for a Career Fair. But usually someone is reading your resume from their office and they already have access to the internet from their computer. QR codes are primarily for smart phone users and designed to be read while mobile.
Now, think about having a QR code.
Generating a QR code:
There are tons of QR code generators out there right now. Most are free and this link (fr0m QRMedia) lists generators with tracking capability so you can see how many people are using your QR code.
Reading a QR code:
So you are probably wondering, how does one scan this? What tool is required? Think mobile. Smart phones are on the rise and this trend in technology will continue to increase. Smart phones have cameras which allow the scanners to work. There are many free QR code readers or scanners. You can search the apps available for your phone. I have a droid and have been using Barcode Scanner and it works great, consistently!
So what are you waiting for? Think about what you want to showcase (and it isn’t your resume folks!) Using QR codes is hip, shows technical savvy and is a fun conversation starter!
Don’t trust me?! Here are some other great posts on QR codes from people in the know:
QR Codes for HR and Recruiting by Blogging4Jobs
Hannah Morgan speaks and writes about job search and career strategies. She founded CareerSherpa.net to educate professionals on how to maneuver through today’s job search process. Hannah was nominated as a LinkedIn Top Voice in Job Search and Careers and is a regular contributor to US News & World Report. She has been quoted by media outlets, including Forbes, USA Today, Money Magazine, Huffington Post, as well as many other publications. She is also author of The Infographic Resume and co-author of Social Networking for Business Success.
