QR Codes on Your Résumé
A QR Code is a 2-dimensional “quick response” bar code that contains a set of data (text, numbers, or a hyperlink). This data can be decoded by QR Readers, which are widely available as Smartphone apps. Take a picture of the QR Code with the phone’s camera, and the embedded information instantly appears.
If you are pumping out awesome, niche-related content, your #1 goal should be directing hiring managers to your blog. Will they type in a URL included within your paper resume? Maybe, maybe not. Try capturing their attention by including a QR Code in the header of your resume. Maybe they won’t scan your QR Code either. But I guarantee they will take note of this unique aspect of your resume, which in itself is a major victory.
In all instances recommended here, be sure to include both your URL and the QR Code, so those without Smartphones can still reach your web destination. Also, consider optimizing your blog for mobile browsing.
Chances are strong that the back of your business card is a blank slate, just waiting to be thrust into action. Why not include a QR Code? Link to your “Contact Me” page, and encourage folks to actually contact you. After all, isn’t that why you handed out the card in the first place? See below for a quick example of what this might look like.
LinkedIn page – direct the reader to your personal LinkedIn page to provide more detail and depth to
your professional background. It would be best if you have a robust LinkedIn page, complete with blog links, social media feeds and recommendations.
YouTube video – link to a YouTube video page where they can view you describing your professional strengths and detailing the value you can bring to their organization.
Blog page – if you have a professional blog, direct the reader to your page so they can read your posts and get a sense of how you think about industry issues and gauge how well you communicate.
Portfolio page – Showcase your work and direct the reader to an online portfolio of your best work. This is especially powerful for those candidates in design and marketing who can display visual examples of previous design efforts or marketing campaigns.