As the number of people with web access via their mobile phones has passed the tipping point, more and more people are using mobile phones as their primary communication tool to connect with Face Book and other social media. Now people are connecting from anywhere, including being “online” while shopping, dining or at entertainment venues.

By scanning a QR code with an application that is built into their phone or easily downloaded one time, consumers now have the ability to quickly access online content to learn more or further enhance their experience in real time.  For example, QR codes can be used to link to daily specials or promotions at restaurants by connecting a QR code placed in the restaurant lobby or on table tents to visually show with great appetite appeal items like appetizers and desserts which will build the average guest check and profits.  Once online with a properly constructed mobile web site, it can be made very easy for the viewer to forward on pictures and comments to friends and family through their social networks.  The instant pass along effect is a huge marketing advantage and very economical way to promote. Since the communication is instant and does not require anyone to remember a long URL and does not require any typing, the ease of use makes it very appealing and can enhance the overall dining experience by giving the customer something to do so their wait appears to be shorter. By inserting “opt-in pages” on the mobile site and getting customers to “opt-in” or “like” your Face Book page in exchange for special offers or promotions, a data base can be built up which can be used very efficiently for future promotions.

QR codes can be used in hundreds of other applications, including virtual tours of the inside of real estate from a code posted on outdoor signage, car facts that can be viewed from a code posted on the window sticker of a car viewed by someone when the dealer ship is closed, or “how to” or recipe instructions on packages. Since the content being viewed is all digital and the viewer is connected online, it can be made very easy for them to click social media share buttons to show the great dessert, spread the word of a good deal or visually show a purchase they are considering, getting instant feedback from their network.

To make sharing easy it is recommended that videos on sites viewed be short and concise, usually no longer than ninety seconds. Links to other more detailed traditional sites can be added so the viewer can view those later if they are interested in major research.  Adding humor, new information and valuable offers all add to the pass along effect. Since the average Face Book user has over 120 contacts, the ability to greatly and efficiently accelerate “word of mouth” is tremendous.