QR codes have become a staple for small businesses as a convenient and efficient way to share information. These scannable codes can be read by any smartphone to quickly access websites, contact details, or your latest promotion.
One of the best ways to use them is for building your list. By placing a QR code at your physical location, you can effortlessly invite customers to join your audience with just a simple scan.
Why should I use QR codes?
QR codes are "zero-friction" for your customers. Instead of typing a long URL or writing on a paper list, they just point their camera and they're in.
Gindo’s Spice of Life, a small business that makes handcrafted sauces, uses QR codes at in-person events: “The scan is so much easier. It’s just a super easy way to get people on board. Being able to grow those followers has just been huge,” said owner Mary Ginder.
Tamika Catchings, owner of Tea’s Me Cafe, also uses them to check attendees into events. “The QR code has been great,” she says. It turns a manual check-in process into a list-building opportunity.
How do I set up a QR code in 2026?
You no longer need to rely on third-party websites to generate your codes. Constant Contact now has native QR code generation built directly into your marketing tools.
1. Using an AI-Powered Lead Magnet
If you want to offer an incentive (like a coupon or a guide), use the Lead Magnet tool:
Find it: Click Audience > Lead magnet from the left-hand menu.
Create: Use the AI prompt to describe your business, and it will generate a mobile-friendly survey for you.
The Code: A unique QR code is automatically generated for every lead magnet. You can download it instantly from your Lead Magnet dashboard.
2. Using Sign-Up Landing Pages
For a standard newsletter sign-up, use a Landing Page:
Find it: Click Channels > Landing pages in the left-hand sidebar.
Share: Next to your active landing page, click the three dots and select Share.
Download: Select Share with QR code. You can download the image to your device or Save to Library to use it later in your emails or social posts.
đź’ˇ 2026 Pro Tip: If you are registered for SMS marketing, your QR code landing page can collect both email addresses and mobile numbers at the same time!
Advanced Design Options
If you want a highly customized code (with your logo in the center or brand colors), you can still use the "Share URL" from your landing page and paste it into external tools like:
Canva (Now with a direct integration inside Constant Contact!)
QR Code Monkey or Delvir
Once you have your perfect code, print it on your business cards, table tents, or even your paper sign-up forms as a digital alternative.
Give it a try and let us know in the comments—where are you placing your QR codes to get the most scans?
