QR Codes bridge the gap between your physical presence and your text messaging platform. When someone scans your QR code, it opens their phone's messaging app with your keyword pre-filled — all they have to do is hit send. This makes opt-ins effortless at events, storefronts, printed materials, business cards, and anywhere you interact with people in person.
Key Features
Instant Opt-In Flow
A scanned QR code opens the contact's native messaging app with your number and keyword already populated. The contact taps send, the keyword triggers your text-to-join campaign, and they are immediately added to your contact list and group. No apps to download, no forms to fill out.
Linked to Keywords
Each QR code is connected to a keyword in your account. When a customer scans the code and sends the keyword, your text-to-join campaign responds automatically. This means you can have different QR codes for different groups, events, or purposes.
Print-Ready Output
QR codes are generated in a format suitable for printing on flyers, posters, business cards, table tents, banners, and signage. Download the QR code image and place it anywhere your audience will see it.
How QR Codes Work
The flow from scan to opt-in works like this:
- You create a keyword — for example, JOIN — and attach it to a text-to-join campaign.
- You generate a QR code linked to that keyword.
- A person scans the QR code with their phone camera.
- Their messaging app opens with your number in the "To" field and the keyword in the message body.
- They tap send, and your campaign response is delivered automatically.
- The customer is added to your All customers group and any group associated with the campaign.
How to Create a QR Code
Step 1: Set Up Your Keyword
Before creating a QR code, make sure you have a keyword created and attached to a text-to-join campaign. The keyword is what the QR code will trigger. See Keywords for setup instructions.
Step 2: Generate the QR Code
Navigate to the QR Codes section from the left-hand navigation. Select the keyword you want to link and click Generate QR Code. The system will create a downloadable QR code image.
Step 3: Download and Place
Download the QR code image and add it to your print materials, website, email signature, social media, or anywhere your audience can scan it.
Real-World Use Cases
Event Registration
Place a QR code at your event registration table. Attendees scan it, text the keyword, and are instantly added to your event customer group. You can follow up with event updates, surveys, or post-event communications.
Storefront or Office Signage
Print a QR code on a sign in your lobby, window, or checkout area. Walk-in visitors can opt in to receive updates, promotions, or appointment reminders.
Business Cards and Flyers
Add a QR code to your business card so new customers can join your text program with a single scan. Include a brief call to action like "Scan to stay connected!"
Networking and Referrals
Create a personal QR code linked to a keyword like CONNECT. When you meet someone at a conference or networking event, have them scan it. They receive an automatic response, and you now have their customer information for follow-up.
Example automatic response: "Thanks for saying hello! Here is a link to learn more about how I can help: [link]. I will follow up with you in a few days!"
Lead Capture at Trade Shows
Use a QR code at your trade show booth to capture leads. Follow up with an automated message that includes a link to your calendar for scheduling a call.
Tips & Best Practices
- Print QR codes large enough to scan easily. A minimum of 1 inch by 1 inch is recommended, but larger is better for signs and banners viewed from a distance.
- Include a clear call to action next to your QR code. Do not assume people know what to do — add text like "Scan to join our text updates" or "Scan & text JOIN to get started."
- Test every QR code by scanning it yourself before printing. Make sure it opens the correct number and keyword.
- Use different keywords for different QR code placements so you can track where your opt-ins are coming from. For example, use EVENT for event signage and STORE for storefront displays.
- Combine with data capture to collect names and email addresses after the initial opt-in. Your text-to-join campaign can include a follow-up asking for additional details.
Common Questions
What happens if someone scans the QR code but does not send the message?
Nothing happens until they send the keyword. The QR code simply pre-fills the message — the customer must tap send to trigger the opt-in flow.
Can I update the campaign response without changing the QR code?
Yes. The QR code is linked to the keyword, and the keyword is linked to the campaign. If you update the campaign response message, the QR code continues to work — customers just receive the updated message.