How & Why to Add a QR Code on Your Resume

While experience, education, and skills are key, the way you present this information can significantly influence how potential employers perceive you. Innovative approaches, such as adding a QR code to your resume, can give you an edge by making your application more memorable and accessible.

A well-placed QR code on your resume can instantly set you apart from other candidates. It’s a small, modern touch that signals you’re tech-savvy and forward-thinking—qualities that many employers value. By offering immediate access to additional content, such as a portfolio or LinkedIn profile, a QR code can deepen an employer’s understanding of your qualifications and make your application more engaging.

In this post, we’ll explain how to create QR code and the step-by-step process of adding one to your resume.

What is a QR code?

A QR code, short for “Quick Response” code, is a type of barcode that can be scanned using a smartphone or QR code reader. Unlike traditional barcodes, which store information horizontally, QR codes store data both horizontally and vertically, allowing them to hold much more information. When you scan a QR code, it can instantly direct you to a website, display a message, or provide contact details. On a resume, it can link directly to additional resources that showcase your work and achievements.

Why you should include a QR code on your resume

• Instant access to additional information: It lets employers access more details about you instantly. It can link to your portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or personal website, giving them a deeper look at your work—especially valuable in creative or technical fields where showcasing projects matters.
• Demonstrates tech-savviness: Adding one shows that you’re comfortable with modern technology and know how to use it effectively. This can be a strong point if you’re applying for roles in digital marketing, IT, or any field that values innovation.
• Enhances interactivity: It makes your resume more than just a document—it becomes an interactive experience. Employers can scan it to explore additional content, making your resume more memorable and dynamic.
• Differentiation from other candidates: With many resumes looking the same, a QR code helps yours stand out. It adds a modern touch, linking directly to extra information that sets you apart and keeps you in the minds of hiring managers.
• Conserves space: You can include more information without overcrowding your resume. You can keep the layout clean and professional while still providing access to in-depth details.
• Tracking engagement: Some QR code generators offer analytics to track how often your code is scanned. This can give you insights into employer interest, helping you refine your resume and job search strategy.

What to link with your QR code

• Portfolio or personal website: Linking to an online portfolio or personal website lets employers explore your work in more detail, whether it’s design projects, writing samples, or coding work. It showcases your achievements and creativity beyond what a traditional resume can offer, serving as a hub for employers to learn more about you and your career journey.
• LinkedIn profile: Linking to your LinkedIn profile provides employers with a comprehensive view of your work history, skills, endorsements, and recommendations. It also offers a professional platform for them to connect with you, allowing them to explore your full career trajectory and see how others in your field view your expertise.
• Video introduction: You can link to a short video introduction where you introduce yourself, outline your career goals, and highlight key strengths. This personal touch allows you to convey your personality and enthusiasm, making a lasting impression that can set you apart from other candidates.
• Published articles or blogs: Linking to articles, research papers, or blogs you’ve written can showcase your expertise and thought leadership. This is especially valuable for roles requiring strong writing or analytical skills, as it proves your ability to contribute valuable insights to your industry.
• Project demonstrations: For technical fields, linking to project demos, GitHub repositories, or case studies can be impactful. It allows employers to see your hands-on experience and problem-solving abilities in action, offering a more convincing demonstration of your skills than a simple resume listing.
• Certificates and awards: Linking to digital copies of certifications, diplomas, or awards validates your skills and achievements. This makes it easy for employers to verify your qualifications, adding credibility to your resume claims.

How to create a QR code for your resume

Adding a QR code to your resume is a straightforward process that can enhance its impact with just a few simple steps.

1. Choose a QR code generator

Start by selecting a QR code generator. There are many options available, both free and paid. Some popular choices include QR Code Generator and Scanova. Free generators often provide basic features like simple URL linking, while paid options may offer more advanced customization and analytics. Choose a generator that meets your needs, keeping in mind any additional features you might find useful, such as tracking or color customization.

2. Generate the QR code

Once you’ve chosen a generator, enter the URL or content you want to link to in the provided field. Many generators allow you to customize the appearance of your QR code by adjusting colors, adding a logo, or choosing different shapes. This customization can help your QR code blend seamlessly with your resume design. After customizing, click the button to generate the code.

3. Test the code

Before adding the QR code to your resume, it’s crucial to test it. Scan the code using your smartphone or a QR code reader app to ensure it works correctly and leads to the intended content. Test the code on different devices and with various scanning apps to ensure compatibility. This step is essential to avoid any potential issues that could frustrate potential employers.

4. Download and save

After testing, download the QR code in a high-resolution format, such as PNG or SVG. These formats ensure that the code remains clear and scannable when printed or viewed digitally. Save the file in a location where you can easily access it for future use, whether you need to reinsert it into a resume or use it for other professional materials.

5. Add the QR code to your resume

Now that you have your QR code, it’s time to add it to your resume. Open your resume document in your preferred editing tool, such as Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or design software like Adobe InDesign. Insert the QR code image in a strategic location on your resume, such as near your contact information, in the header, or footer. Make sure it doesn’t overpower the text but is still easily noticeable and scannable.

Conclusion

Now that you understand the benefits and steps involved, why not try adding a QR code to your resume? Experiment with linking to different types of content—whether it’s a portfolio, LinkedIn profile, or a project demo—and see how it enhances your job applications.

As the job market continues to evolve, staying ahead of the curve with innovations like QR codes can give you a competitive edge. By integrating this modern tool into your resume, you’re not just keeping up with trends; you’re setting yourself apart as a forward-thinking candidate ready to embrace new opportunities.

Sara Duerr

Sara has been in the career development field for over 10 years and has a wealth of knowledge to share. She covers topics such as resume writing, job search strategies, interview techniques, career planning, and more. You can connect with her on LinkedIn. She has curated our free downloadable resume templates for Word and resume templates for Google Docs.