QR Code - Why and How to include them on a resume?

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Shricareer Thu, 10/13/2022 - 11:53

One of the innovative trends in hiring and recruitment at the moment is creating a QR code for your CV. In this crowded employment market, if you want the position, you’re after you must find new ways to instantly stand out from the competition. if you have a long list of accomplishments to list, then consider including a QR code to exhibit your excellent credentials and skills on your resume. List all the additional details that provide a deeper insight into your past or personality and present you as the best candidate for the job. Make it straightforward for hiring managers to immediately scan this code to access more information about you by displaying it in a visible place. In this article, we’ll go over what a QR code is, why you should use one, the pros and cons of a QR code in your resume, and how to put a QR code on your resume effectively.

What is a QR code?

A square-shaped patterned image is called a Quick Response (QR) code. Scannable QR codes can be found everywhere, and many smartphones and tablets have built-in QR readers.

When the QR code is scanned, data is sent to your device which provides them a different set of information when they click the link. You may, for instance, incorporate the URL to your website or LinkedIn profile in a QR code, for networking purposes or for recruiters to view.

Importance of a QR code on Your Resume

  1. Stand out from the rest of the applicants.

A resume definitely becomes more valuable when it has a QR code put on it. Additionally, it adds more importance to that piece of paper and highlights your tech prowess, which makes you more desirable as a candidate for jobs in marketing and technology-related fields. So, make yourself a powerful impression that kills right away.

  1. Link additional information.

The resume page that includes your portfolio work and other essential information about you is easily accessible to employers thanks to the QR codes on your resume. They will learn much more about you if there is a direct link to your LinkedIn profile and other social media sites.

Additionally, it may include video presentations displaying your abilities and accomplishments, complete employment history, or any relevant job position you’re applying for to improve your chances of landing a job by putting them front center.

  1. Including a QR code in a resume simplifies the job process for an employer

The recruiting staff will spend less time and effort interviewing you about your qualifications and work history if you attach a QR code to your resume that takes them directly to a page listing your eligibility requirements. This will save time and effort for both sides.

  1. Know who's looking at your resume.

Most QR codes can connect you to administrative tools that alert you when someone scans your code or to professional scan-tracking software. In order to ensure that the hiring manager has seen your resume and is interested in speaking with you further, you might get a text or email that lets you know who opened the document and when.

Pros and Cons of using QR codes on resumes

Pros

Grabs attention.

Since hiring managers don’t frequently come across QR codes on resumes, it may potentially help you stand out from the competition. Additionally, it’s a clever method to highlight your skills,- if applicable to your industry.

Saves space.

Because you just have one-two page to showcase who you are and all of your accomplishments, creating a resume can be challenging. You can create a more extensive online presence using a QR code which will relieve some of the pressure to include all of the information on your resume.

It's insightful.

Depending on the tool you use to create your QR code, you can register to get alerts when someone scans it, giving you information on whether or not people are interacting with it and where they are located.

It's targeted.

If your name is widely used, it could be challenging for employers to conduct a quick google search and locate your website, LinkedIn page, or online portfolio. You can be sure you’re connecting them to the real you when you use a QR code.

Cons

No, QR codes aren’t the newest and greatest technology; they’re still a very new invention. However, not everyone is aware of them or how they operate.

It takes too much time. Even while scanning a QR code only takes a few seconds, it’s simply one more step a hiring manager must take to get to know you, which may seem unusual. According to studies, recruiters give resumes a six to ten-second check before moving on to the next.

It doesn’t really add much worth.

Depending on what you choose to link the QR code to consider whether it will benefit your CV and entire application for a job. What can a recruiter see on your LinkedIn page that they can’t find on your resume if you link to it? Additionally, you should ensure that whatever you’re connecting to is in excellent condition; avoid using a basic website with inaccurate information.

Step-by-step process on how to put a QR code on a resume.

1. Use a QR generator to create your code

Various tools are available on the internet that will let you create a QR code that quickly directs visitors to more details on a different movie, document, or website. Usually, these generators allow you to encrypt the textual data or links in the code. Enter your link or document in the space provided. These might instantly save to the visitor’s phone or send them there more rapidly.

2. Describe the code and destination

Most QR code generators let you add a description to your code so that users know where to go after scanning it. If the program you use doesn’t show this, you can usually right-click on the code and choose “Insert Caption” or a similar option. Add a succinct description that is directly underneath the code and describes where the recruiting manager might end up if they click on it. If this code directs potential employers to your web portfolio, for instance, you may write, “Please scan to visit my portfolio.”

3. Tailor the frame to a unique one.

The QR generator might let you further alter the code’s appearance before you add it to your resume. To make the code more aesthetically pleasing, you may have access to a variety of frames, colors, and form options. If the generator tool enables it, you might be able to add your logo by uploading it and editing it so that it looks acceptable on your QR code.

4. Put the QR code in your resume

Add the QR code to the resume by downloading it. Choose the “insert” option to add the file to your document by finding the “Insert” option and clicking it. In order to promote yourself and your experience to the hiring manager, place your QR code near the top of your resume, close to your contact details. Make the frame on your own by changing the colors and shape to match the colors and layout of your resume. This can entice the hiring managers to scan it and make the code on the document appear more natural.

5. Print it to test the code.

Print off your QR code after you’ve changed it and put it in the proper spot on your resume. You may check if the code is simple to view and scan on your phone or tablet using this method. if you print it and make sure the code scans properly, it will increase the likelihood that the resume will successfully send hiring managers to links or documents when they utilize it. Examine the link, file, or video it refers you to carefully after you scan the code to make sure it functions as intended.