An Ultimate Guide: Revamp Your Business Cards with QR Code Trend using Canva

Even with the advancement in technology making communication faster and more convenient, the old style of networking, aka business cards, remains relevant today.

Nonetheless, businesses have also kept up with the times by combining the classic way with a contemporary touch by making use of QR codes.

In fact, QR codes become more widespread when the COVID-19 pandemic hit, especially among the healthcare and business sectors.

Short for Quick Response, a QR code is a two-dimensional scannable square barcode that can store various types of information. But the most common use of QR codes among businesses is to redirect customers to websites, social media profiles, landing pages for their product catalog, and discount coupons, among many other digital contents.

What makes QR codes a great feature to business cards?

Business cards are handy for introducing yourself and your business to customers or clients and potential ones. You can also use it to guide them on how to reach you online by indicating your website or social media handles. However, that would entail them to manually type the link or search for you on Facebook or Instagram.

Using QR codes can add value and functionality to your customized business card, because, one, it enhances convenience on your customers’ end. It eliminates the need for manual data entry. Since most smartphones these days have a built-in scanner in the camera, they can simply scan the code, and they will be redirected to the linked web or social media page in just a few taps in a matter of seconds.

Additionally, they are trackable and measurable, so you can gain insights into how often the code was scanned. You can determine if the technique was effective in order to leverage its benefits to increase your sales and online engagement.

Another great feature of QR codes is that they are highly durable. The patterns and alignments are unique for every code. Once generated and printed, the data embedded in them are permanently stored.

QR codes do not expire as well, so your calling card remains valuable for a long time. When you use high-quality business card materials, they will be protected from scratches and scuffs from frequent handling. It is important to note that when the printed code gets damaged severely, it can become unscannable.

How to create a scannable business card with Canva

If you're not a professional designer, Canva is an excellent tool for creating your business cards. You can use any device that works for you, whether a laptop, computer, phone, or tablet, by visiting the website or downloading the app to get started.

Canva gives you the option to design from scratch using a blank canvas or a business card template that you can customize to add information and design elements relevant to your branding.

What is more, Canva has made it easy for users to integrate a QR code into any project with a generator you can use for free.

In this blog, we will guide you on how to design a scannable business card using templates, both with and without a QR code placeholder. Follow along.

Pro-tip: Choose a template that suits your brand identity

Let us use this Beige Green Orange Color Blocks Fashion QR Code Business Card to create a design for a fake brand called Any Eco Apparel.

The template has a mockup QR code which we can change into our own to embed a link directed to the brand’s fake website. Here is how to do that:

On the editor side panel, click Apps. Scroll down and click on the QR Code button when you see it.

Enter the URL of the page that you want your QR code to open.

Click on Generate code. The QR code will be added to your design. Simply move it where you see fit.

This time, let us use this White Retro Business Card template to create a business card for a fake jewelry brand called Crafty Chic.

Unlike the previous template, this one has no QR code placeholder ready. To add the code, we simply need to take the same steps in the first design.

But first, we need to tweak the design a little bit.

Change the text to add relevant information, such as the brand name, a short description of the business, contact number, and address.

Be sure to leave enough space for the QR code. In this case, we will place it at the bottom right portion of the design.

Now that all the information and other elements are laid, it’s time to generate the QR code.

1.Click on Apps on the side panel and look for the QR code button.

2. Enter the URL of what you want to link. Tap on Generate code.

This time, let us use this White Retro Business Card template to create a business card for a fake jewelry brand called Crafty Chic.

Unlike the previous template, this one has no QR code placeholder ready. To add the code, we simply need to take the same steps in the first design.

But first, we need to tweak the design a little bit.

Change the text to add relevant information, such as the brand name, a short description of the business, contact number, and address.

Be sure to leave enough space for the QR code. In this case, we will place it at the bottom right portion of the design.

Now that all the information and other elements are laid, it’s time to generate the QR code.

1. Click on Apps on the side panel and look for the QR code button.
2. Enter the URL of what you want to link. Tap on Generate code.

Once the code appears, fix the size and placement. You can even update the color to match your design.

Finally, save and download the design. 

And there we go, a simple yet elegant scannable business card ready for printing!

Once the code appears, fix the size and placement. You can even update the color to match your design.

Finally, save and download the design.

And there we go, a simple yet elegant scannable business card ready for printing!

How to generate a QR code for mobile users.

1. On the bottom corner of the editor, tap the plus button.

2. From the options below, tap Apps. Under popular, tap on QR code.

3. Enter the URL of the page you want the code to open. Tap on Generate code.

4. Modify the color and size to your liking. Tap on Update code.

Additional tips to effectively implement QR codes on your business card:

Determine your purpose

A QR code can store any type and amount of information, but it can only hold one specific data. Before incorporating one into your design, decide, first and foremost, your purpose, so you can determine what key information you will embed in the code.

Is it to drive traffic to your website, showcase your products, services or portfolio, provide contact details, or book a consultation? With clear motivation, you can ensure the QR code’s function aligns with your purpose. In return, you will get your desired results.

Add a call-to-action phrase

CTAs, for short, are actionable phrases that will help entice customers to scan the code. Your CTA must complement the information on the code. Adding this is also important for your customers so they know what to expect when they scan it.

Common CTAs you can use include the following:

• Scan to shop/Shop online - link to your website

• Check out my portfolio - link to your website

• Discover our latest collection - link to your product landing page

• Find us online - link to your social media page

• Book an appointment - link to appointment form or contact page

Consider placement and size

In adding the QR code to your design, there are two ideal placements to make it noticeable without overpowering the other information.

You can compile the logo, business name, and contact details on the front side. On the back side, you can display the QR code at the center in a larger size along with the CTA to ensure it stands out and is easy to scan.

Another option is by making use of one of the corners of the card for the code to blend seamlessly with the design. You can scale the QR code to as small as 0.8 x 0.8” to keep it from dominating the other information. However, the bigger, the better for easy scanning.

Customize the colors to fit the card’s overall look

One great aspect of QR codes is that you can change their color to fit your card’s aesthetic and brand identity. It would still perfectly function even if it’s not in its default black-and-white appearance.

Other advanced QR code generator allows you to add your logo to the code itself. Your code will look more reliable, boosting customers’ confidence to scan it.

Choose between Static and Dynamic QR Codes

There are two main types of QR codes: Static and Dynamic.

Static QR codes are ideal for one-time use or embedding information that does not need changing, such as your website link or social media page. For this type, you cannot edit or update the information stored. You will need to generate a different code for a different URL.

Dynamic QR codes are a more flexible option because you can change the information without generating a new code. This type is perfect for promotional or discount codes, for example. But you will need more advanced tools, which are not free, to achieve this functionality for your code.

Final Thoughts

Business cards are important even in this day of digitalization. Incorporating QR codes into your business cards adds a modern touch that enhances functionality. Embrace this powerful tool to not only make a lasting impression but also drive meaningful interactions with your audience. With added convenience to the designs, you can unlock the potential for seamless connections with customers.

Get creative. Experiment and embrace the possibilities QR codes offer. And as you design, ensure you remain consistent with your brand identity, cater to your target market's interest, and prioritize a visually appealing yet informative design.