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Everyone loves a deal, and promos offered via QR codes are an easy way to incentivize consumers to try a new product or service they might not have considered. According to Forbes, while QR codes have been around since the 1990s, they surged in usage during the beginning of COVID-19 as businesses used them for tasks like sharing menus, checking customers in and promoting products and signups. If you plan to do influencer marketing or brand advocacy in 2024 and want to supply your creators with QR codes, there are some things you’ll want to consider.

Apply these best practices as you design your influencer marketing and UGC campaigns to give prospects a nudge, track your sales efforts, and determine which products and services appeal to new and returning customers. 

Communicate clearly

Clearly communicate what the QR code is for. Is it for a discount, to access more information, or to download an app? Make sure the purpose is clear to avoid any confusion.

Include simple instructions on how to scan the QR code, especially if your target audience may not be familiar with them.

Assign each creator their own QR code link

Once you find the right influencer to work with, give each content creator their own unique tracking link associated with the QR code so you can track your return on investment. Because you’ll know who to attribute the sale to, you can measure each campaign’s progress and success.  

Test the QR code and/or promo code

Always test the QR code before distributing it. Make sure it works properly and leads to the correct destination.

Consider placement, resolution and size

The QR codes you create should be easy to see and contain your brand logo to allow customers to save or recall them if they cannot make a purchase immediately. Make sure the codes are mobile-friendly, load quickly and are easy to use.

Create a sense of urgency for promotions

To encourage visitors to make a purchase sooner rather than later, consider setting a short expiration date. While flash sales — short-term discounts offered only for 24 to 72 hours — can certainly fit the bill, it’s important to consider that not everyone will see the influencer’s post immediately. In addition, not everyone will have the money to purchase on the day of or immediately following the promo’s posting. Aim for a short window, like five to seven days. After that, the QR code can go to a product landing page. A QR code that leads to a broken link or outdated information can harm your brand’s reputation.

Encourage sharing

To increase each influencer’s reach exponentially, ask them to encourage their followers to share the post with the QR code. They’ll still earn the commission (if that’s the agreement), you’ll get more exposure, and you may find out who your newest brand advocates are. 

In addition, you can incentivize customers to share your promos, content and links by rewarding them with points that can be redeemed for things like gift cards.

Repost content

Market the campaign on your brand’s social media channels through a direct share of their post or through messaging that promotes visiting the creator’s post. For example, “Check out GoodNightGracie’s post before the end of the month to get access to her unique QR code for 40% off our new line of wire-free bras in 12 colors!” 

Track your QR code purchases

Aren’t sure how to tabulate ROI? You have options, for influencer posts, you can use Tracking Links in IZEA Flex, our comprehensive influencer marketing platform, which allows you to attribute sales and other conversions to specific creators. 

In a brand advocate hub via Zuberance, you can connect sales and content to specific advocates as well.

Comply with FTC and privacy guidelines

If the QR code is used to collect personal data, ensure you comply with all relevant privacy laws and regulations. When creators are sharing the QR codes, they should always disclose brand partnerships.

Use these best practices before, during, and after your influencer and brand advocate marketing campaign. You’ll protect your brand, yourself, the content creators, and your budget, and if all goes well, you’ll pave the way for additional successful campaigns.

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 IZEA MANAGED SERVICES 

Strategy and execution from the company that launched the industry.

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influencer marketing software Managed Services

 IZEA MANAGED SERVICES 

Strategy and execution from the company that launched the industry.

Request a proposal

 IZEA MANAGED SERVICES 

Strategy and execution from the company that launched the industry.

Request a proposal