As a jobseeker, you’ll agree, your most difficult challenge these days, is simply figuring out how to stand out and get noticed. Even with all those excellent credentials, you will need something extra that pops out from the stack of resumes on the recruiter’s desk or desktop.
Why not try something innovative? How about getting yourself a QR code — a recent trend that is gaining traction everywhere? A QR code is simply, a two-dimensional “Quick Response” bar code that when scanned using a smart phone, connects recruiters directly to your LinkedIn profile, online portfolio, blog or website, without making them type a URL into a browser.
Getting a QR code is free and instant. Simply log on to any of the myriad sites like QR-Code-Generator.com and enter the URL of your online profile. Or simply find a smart phone app by searching for QR codes or QR code makers.
Benefits to your job search
What are the benefits of using QR codes?
Keep in mind that it’s not the novelty of the QR code alone that will give you the edge in the job hunt, but more importantly the way that it’s put to use to strategically reinforce your skills and desirability as a job applicant. That’s why, you can consider comprehensive platforms like Qfuse.com that not only help you design great QR codes, but also generate landing pages that are mobile friendly. What’s more, by linking your QR codes to the mobile content, you can measure who viewed your QR code and get full online activity reports.
Three QR strategies
Here are three ways QR codes can spark in your job search:
1. Include a QR code in the header of your resuméto grab attention within the first four seconds. To be safe, include your LinkedIn/blog/website URL and the QR code, so those without smart phones can still reach your online profile. Just be sure not to send people directly to a simple online resumé. There’s no point in sending them to the same information they already have in front of them.
2. Print the QR code on the back of your business card so people can look you up and contact you later. After all, isn’t that why you handed out the card in the first place?
3. Allow it to be a communication bridge especially at networking events and one-on-one meetings. Most of the time, it can be difficult to carry around your whole portfolio, but you can always bring it up in a conversation with people and then hand your QR code printed-card to let them view your credentials in real time.
On trend
In summary, adding a QR code to your job search tools cleverly illustrates that you are up-to-date with the latest technological trends, and gains the admiration of hiring managers and employers alike.
Of course, it isn’t the QR code alone that will make the difference; ultimately the code helps to highlight your experience and brings your skills to the forefront, which means you need to have the experience and skills in the first place.
The good news — these days everyone is using a smart phone and that includes the people you are trying to reach. The great news — now you can win them over instantly with a QR code.