How QR Codes Can Help Small Businesses Grow with the Flow During National Small Business Week

In today’s competitive market, it can be tough to start a small business and stand out from your peers. As a small business owner, it’s important to be mindful of your overhead costs, while also catering to your consumer. Since convenience is king in today’s consumer landscape, there’s no question that QR codes are a super affordable and seamless tool for your customer. 

Adding QR codes to your suite of products and marketing materials will not only enhance the customer experience, but it will also make your product more valuable in the process. QR (quick response) technology is an easy and scalable solution for any small business looking to connect with their consumer across multiple touchpoints. And here at Flowcode, the DTC Company, we believe in supporting small businesses by creating QR technology that’s customizable, easy to use, and affordable. 

As small business week kicks off, now is a great opportunity to capitalize on your FlowMode and harness Flowcode’s QR technology to bolster and build your brand.

In this post, we will walk you through some easy, actionable ways to incorporate Flowcode QR codes into your business model that will make you stand out from the crowd without breaking the bank. Whether it’s placing branded QR codes on flyers and mailers, or business cards and posters, here are some prime ways to leverage QR codes for your small business:

Market more easily: capture potential customers by serving relevant, personalized, and actionable marketing messaging to them with Flowcode QR tech 

1. Through direct mail and flyers. Incorporating Flowcode QR codes into direct mail and flyers is a seamless way to take your customers from the offline to the online world. Whether you’re a real estate agent or a small jewelry company, Flowcode QR codes adds another level of convenience for your consumer. The QR code could direct your customer to your website to purchase a product directly, or take them directly to an online appointment scheduler. 

2. Through posters and billboards to boost app downloads. If you’re in the early stages of your business, applying a QR code to billboards or posters on shop windows is a great way to spread the word about your new app or business. Flowcode makes it easy to create QR codes that redirect your audience to the app store for both iOS and Android.

3. Through business cards. According to a recent study, 88% of business cards get tossed in less than a week. Embedding a Flowcode QR code into your business card, or your Flowcard, can easily help you get more leads and ensure your future customer will hold onto your contact information. 

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Streamline the customer journey: convince customers to purchase your product through education and seamless consumer experiences 

1. Through receipts and labels for review requests. According to a recent study, nearly 9 out of 10 consumers worldwide consult reviews before engaging with a local business. To make leaving reviews a seamless experience for your customer, consider adding Flowcode QR codes to receipts, product labels, or even applying it to the back of your phone. Linking QR codes to feedback forms provides invaluable insights into your customer, and will continue to generate your online presence.

2. Through digital instructions and video tutorials. Got a question about a product or puzzled how to assemble a piece of furniture? Ditch the instruction manual and consider applying a QR code to your product instead. This code will link directly to an online tutorial or how-to video, giving your customer more information readily available at their fingertips.

3. Through online payment. QR Codes are undoubtedly a more cost-effective way for business owners to accept touchless payments. With QR codes, there’s no need to invest in pricey software, hardware, or commit to expensive monthly fees. Small businesses can take advantage of Google Pay, Venmo, and Apple Pay and link it directly with their smartphone. Easy.

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Build retention: bolster brand loyalty and create a community with your customers by providing additional touchpoints 

1. Through customer feedback. Similarly, linking a QR code to a product, receipt or product label is a great way to engage your consumer. You can simply encourage them to leave ratings on your website, share purchase reviews on Facebook or Google reviews, or complete a survey after a service or experience. Also, with the help of our communication tool Flowleads, anyone can instantly connect via call or FaceTime with someone from Flowcode.

2. Through swag and other giveaways to drive loyalty. Whether it’s a free notepad, water bottle, t-shirt or hat, incorporating a branded Flowcode QR code into freebies is a great way to promote customer retention. The QR code is a great way to keep the conversation going, and bring customers back to your website or phone number should they require your service in the future. This is the perfect way to build a loyal customer base.

3. Through product packaging. Adding a QR code directly to your product inventory is a great way to continue the conversation. You can use it to drive your customer to your webpage to purchase additional products, enter a fun giveaway, or link your social media accounts to generate more likes and followers. 

4. Through email marketing lists. Use a QR code to collect email addresses by placing one directly on freebies or swag, product packaging, or even on your website or social media profile. Since mobile is the most common channel for email, it makes sense to be mindful of smartphone users when compiling your email list. You can also have this list in a CRM with email integration, so that you're always on top of follow-ups.

In 2023, QR codes are pretty much ubiquitous—and for good reason. They’re incredibly easy to create and even easier to use. And when it comes to small businesses, it’s no different. Leveraging Flowcode QR code technology is an easy and affordable way to get in front of your consumer and stay with them along the way. It’s a win-win.

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Want to leverage Flowcode to help you grow your business during Small Business Week and beyond?