QR Codes: A Competitive Edge?

Are you looking to make your resume more competitive? Recently I came across several articles on LinkedIn referencing the emergence of QR codes on resumes and business cards. One of these articles asserted that, “QR Codes are an incredible way to link your offline marketing material such as business cards, posters, flyers, brochures, placards and billboards with your online presence. It helps you convert more people into paying customers.”

The hiring manager would first scan your resume and then have immediate access to additional information regarding your skills, and professional/educational information. Imagine having an employer scan your resume at a job fair and instantly have access to your resume and/or social media outlets. This could also potentially impress the employer, demonstrating your versatility with social media and new technology tools.

There is also a way for a student to track interest in his/her resume by creating an alert system when a potential employer scans your QR code. This is a great feature if you are applying for a position online and want to know if your resume was reviewed by a potential hiring manager.

Students can access http://qrcode.kaywa.com/ to generate their own QR codes by imputing their website URL, LinkedIn URL, etc.

I am sure we will continue to see a great increase in the emergence of QR codes on resumes, business cards, and social media sites. However, it is important to note that you still need to have a well polished, effective, reviewed resume to begin with in order for this to be successful. You want to make sure you have a clear and concise format, accurate and well-written content, and experiences and skills that highlight all that you have to offer a potential company or organization.

Article can be accessed at: http://www.businessinsider.com/qr-codes-on-resumes-can-help-ones-candidacy-2012-7

-Lauren Behr, Assistant Director