How to jazz up your CV with QR codes

Chandu Gopalakrishnan plays Geek god and decodes QR code for the technologically challenged and explains why QR code is the way to the future. 

Hey, I'm stuck. This job application ad tells me to scan this box with my smartphone. I've never done such a thing. What's it all about?

That box is actually a QR code. 

A what?

A Quick Response code. QR code in short. You have seen barcodes, right? Let's just say this is an advanced version that can store a lot more information. 

OK, but why is it there in the placement ad?

That will link you to the website of the recruiter. 

So it's just a job application tool, right?

No. That is just one use of QR codes. As I told you, it contains a lot of information, from simple sentences to website addresses. Let me explain. Toyota introduced QR codes as a way to tag their cars and parts, so that they can get the details just by scanning it. As smartphones became commonplace, apps to scan QR codes were introduced. Marketers realized the potential and used it, from virtual retailing to connecting people to fan pages in social networking sites. 

But then how do I use it?

Just click on the QR code reader app in your phone and take a picture. Almost all smartphones have the app. If you have activated internet in your phone, it will directly link to the website address in the code. QR codes have been part of marketing campaigns for some time now. 

So now recruiters are also using it, right?

Yes. Placing a QR code in the application form and placement ads is becoming an established practice now. Recruitment specialists have teamed up with creative minds to take the next step. An innovative recruitment ad for artists required the applicant to fill a QR code using the answers of a quiz and then scan it to file an online application. The result: a small pool of highly talented applicants. 

If they can use it, can I put it in my CV as well?

Why not? QR codes in ads are basically marketing tools, like a curriculum vitae or a resume being your personal marketing tool. We all know that recruiters do not prefer a long CV. A QR code in the CV/resume can provide links to relevant but supplementary information without enlarging it. A well-placed resume with an accurate link can make your resume creative, effective and brief. 

Won't my CV look odd?

On the contrary, it will make your CV stand out. Just remember to add a line saying what the code would show once scanned, like "Scan to see my online portfolio," below the QR code image. 

You have a website and LinkedIn page. Why not put a QR code linking that in your CV?

I'd rather use it in my visiting card. 

QRs can be used on visiting cards too?

Yes. A QR code on the business card makes it stand out and gives extra information about the person. While entrepreneurs give the link of their company website, executives use their professional network profile. By placing them on a business card, you can digitally pass on contact details, direct people to a website, or connect them with your personal/professional social networking page. 

But your visiting card already has the contact details, right?

Yes, but I don't think many will actually bother to hold the card and type out the website address into a smartphone.