QR Codes are an excellent tool for making it easy for clients and customers to quickly navigate to your website, sales page, or other online destinations. If you’re not familiar with QR Codes, they’re those little squares with a pixelated matrix of black and white blocks. With just a quick scan using a smartphone, users can be instantly directed to your chosen URL.
In this post, I’ll not only show you how to create a QR Code using Canva but also explain why they’re so effective and where you should be using them in your business. If you’re just here for the step-by-step guide, feel free to jump straight to the “How-To” section below.
Why You Should Use QR Codes in Your Business
QR Codes are all about reducing friction. Instead of asking potential customers to manually type in a URL—risking errors and frustration—QR Codes let them reach you with a simple scan. In today’s fast-paced world, ease and speed can make all the difference.
Benefits of QR Codes
- Versatile Use: Ideal for both print and digital applications.
- Instant Access: Quickly connect your audience to online content.
- Improved Engagement: Simplify the customer journey, increasing the likelihood of interaction.
Where You Can Use QR Codes
QR Codes are particularly effective in real-world situations and work best on print materials. Here are some creative ways to incorporate QR Codes into your marketing strategy:
- Videos: Use a QR Code as a call-to-action, encouraging viewers to take the next step.
- Business Cards: Add a QR Code to make it easy for potential clients to find you online.
- Presentation Slide Decks: Include a QR Code on your final slide, directing the audience to a special offer or additional resources.
- Flyers and Brochures: Enhance your print materials by adding a QR Code that leads to more detailed information or a special promotion.
- Ebooks and Worksheets: Embed QR Codes to direct readers to complementary content or related offers.
Where should you direct a QR Code?
You can direct a QR Code to any URL. Consider what’s most relevant to your target audience and the specific campaign you’re running. Here are some ideas:
- Email Subscribe Page
- Opt-In Freebie Page
- Specific Blog Post, Video, or Podcast Episode
- Event, Workshop, or Course Sign-Up Page
- Survey or Feedback Form
- Contest Entry Form
- Business Location Map
- Special Offer or Discount Page
- Social Media Profiles
- Booking Page
???? Pro Tip: Use a consistent short URL for your QR Codes. If you’re using a tool like Bit.ly, you can update the destination URL while keeping the same QR Code. This is also possible with a redirect management tool like RankMath’s redirections feature.
How To Create A QR Code In Canva
Canva makes generating QR Codes quick and easy. Follow these steps to create your own:
- Log into Canva: If you don’t have an account, you can create a free one at canva.com.
- Create or Open a Design: Start with a new design or open an existing one.
- Find the QR Code App: On the left-hand sidebar, locate the “Apps” section. Search for “QR Code” or scroll down to find it.
- Enter Your Destination URL: Paste the URL where you want to direct your audience into the field provided.
- Customize Your QR Code: While you can change the colors, it’s important to maintain high contrast so the QR Code is easily recognizable.
- Generate and Place the Code: Click “Generate Code” to add it to your design. You can then resize and position it as needed.
- Download Your Design: When you’re finished, go to “Share” → “Download” and choose your preferred file format.
How to Create a Stand-Alone QR Code in Canva
If you want to use a QR Code outside of Canva—for example, in a PowerPoint slide or Adobe Illustrator document—here’s what you need to do:
- Start with a Square Design: Choose the “Instagram Post” template to get a square canvas.
- Add Your QR Code: Follow the same steps as above to generate your QR Code, and adjust it to fill the space.
- Download the QR Code: Save it as a PNG or SVG by selecting “Share” → “Download” and choosing your format.
- What if you just want the QR Code as a file?
Final Thoughts
QR Codes are a simple yet powerful tool for bridging the gap between offline and online marketing. By incorporating them into your business strategy, you can make it easier for your audience to connect with you, no matter where they encounter your brand.