You see them everywhere now—on coffee cups, flyers, business cards, even painted on murals. QR codes have blasted back into the mainstream like it’s their second coming. But just like anything that spreads like wildfire, people are doing it all wrong. And sometimes, hilariously so.
Someone once stuck a QR code on the back of a moving bus. Think about that. Who’s scanning a code while sprinting down the street or weaving through traffic? Madness.
So, if you’re thinking about using QR codes for your brand, event, or side hustle—good idea. But if you slap them on things without thinking, it can backfire big time. Let’s break down the big do’s and don’ts, shall we?
✅ QR Code Do’s
1. Do Make It Mobile-Friendly
This one should be obvious, but it’s shocking how often people mess it up. QR codes are scanned with smartphones. Which means: the landing page must be mobile-optimized. If someone scans it and ends up on a page that looks like a 2008 desktop site? You’ve lost them.
2. Do Include a Clear CTA
Why am I scanning your code? What’s in it for me? These are questions users ask themselves, maybe not consciously, but definitely instinctively. So add a short, sweet CTA. Something like:
- “Scan to get 20% off.”
- “Watch the video.”
- “Join the VIP list.”
And don’t bury it in fine print. Big, bold, clear.
3. Do Test Before Launching
Sounds simple, right? But it’s often skipped. Always test your QR code across different devices, under various lighting conditions, and—get this—even from awkward angles. Your audience won’t always have the perfect shot. If they struggle to scan it, it’s already game over.
4. Do Get a Dynamic QR Code
A dynamic QR lets you change the link later without needing to change the code. That’s a game changer if you’re running a campaign or making updates. Imagine printing thousands of flyers, realizing the link is broken, and not being able to fix it. Oof. Save yourself the heartache and go dynamic.
5. Do Track and Measure Performance
If a QR code converts in the forest and no one’s around to track it, did it even matter?
Use tools (plenty are free or freemium) that let you monitor number of scans, location, time of day, and device type. This isn’t just nerd stuff—it’s gold. Data can help you pivot your marketing more efficiently than guesswork ever will.
❌ QR Code Don’ts
1. Don’t Put Them Where People Can’t Scan
This includes:
- Billboards on highways (seriously—why?)
- TV commercials (you blink, it’s gone)
- Posters in dark hallways and bathrooms with weird lighting
Think about context. Is there enough time? Enough light? Enough space to stand still and scan?
2. Don’t Over-stylize It
Yes, you can add colors and logos and play Picasso with QR codes. But, moderation, folks. If you go overboard, QR readers might not even recognize it’s a code. Keep high contrast—ideally dark code on light background. And stay within safe zones when adding logos or decorative fluff.
3. Don’t Forget a Backup Plan
Not everyone is into QR codes. Grandma might still be using a flip phone, okay? Always include a short URL or some way to access the same content without scanning. Inclusivity isn’t just kind—it’s good conversion sense.
4. Don’t Link to Sketchy or Slow Pages
If the page doesn’t load within 3 seconds, forget it. People are brutal like that online. Also, please—link to secure, safe pages (https not http). No one wants malware with their coupon offer.
5. Don’t Use Them ‘Just Because’
QR codes should serve a purpose. Not everything needs a digital trail. Ask yourself: Is this delivering value, or am I just trying to look “techy”? If it doesn’t solve a problem or enhance the user experience, skip it. Not everything needs a scan tag.
The Smart Way to Use QR Codes
Now that we’ve dragged all the bad practices into the light, let’s talk about how to use QR codes strategically. Here are a few proven ideas that actually work:
- Product Packaging — Link to video tutorials, warranty registration, user guides.
- Event Tickets — Include QR codes for venue maps or exclusive setlists.
- Restaurant Menus — Offer seasonal dishes, instant order, or allergy info.
- Retail Signs — Scan to save the product to a shopping app or wishlist.
- Networking Cards — Add a code that imports your contact into their phone instantly.
There’s real creativity here—but the secret sauce? Balance. Convenience shouldn’t feel like effort. It should feel… well, seamless.
Final Thoughts (But Not in a Boring Way)
If you ask me, QR codes are finally getting their moment to shine—the right way. But with great power comes great user interface responsibility. When used smartly, they’re a bridge between offline and online worlds. When used lazily, they’re just weird little pixel squares nobody wants to touch.
So go on. Use them. Embrace them. But don’t forget the basics. QR codes aren’t magic—they’re only as good as the thought you put behind them.
Need a tool to help manage all your links, promote your content, and even embed QR codes that work across campaigns? Check out HeyLink—one link for everything. Game-changer.