Quick Answer
Putting a LinkedIn QR code on your resume can be beneficial in some cases, but it also comes with some risks. On the plus side, it provides an easy way for recruiters to view your LinkedIn profile and full work history. However, it also gives recruiters access to more personal information than a traditional resume would, which some candidates may not be comfortable with. Consider your target industry, the types of roles you are applying to, and whether you want recruiters to have unfettered access to your LinkedIn. Ultimately, the decision comes down to personal preference and what fits best with your personal branding strategy.
What is a LinkedIn QR code?
A LinkedIn QR code is a small, scannable square barcode that can be generated through your LinkedIn account settings. When scanned with a smartphone camera, it will directly open and take someone to your LinkedIn profile page.
The QR code serves as a quick way for people to view your LinkedIn profile without having to manually search for your name or ask you for the link. It eliminates the need to exchange business cards as well.
Pros of putting a LinkedIn QR code on your resume
Here are some potential benefits of including a LinkedIn QR code on your resume:
Provides instant access to your full work history
While a resume usually includes a brief summary of your work experiences, skills, and education, your LinkedIn profile contains much more comprehensive information on your background.
Adding the QR code lets recruiters immediately dive into the details on your LinkedIn profile as soon as they scan the code, rather than having to search for you manually or ask for the link later. This gives them a more holistic view of your fit for the role.
Demonstrates your tech-savviness
A LinkedIn QR code indicates that you are tech-savvy and embracing modern recruiting practices. For certain roles, particularly in tech-focused industries, this can make you appear aligned with the company’s culture and values.
Recruiters may perceive the QR code as a signal that you are adaptable to using the latest technology tools and systems required for the job.
Adds a visual focal point
The QR code graphic stands out on the page and adds a visual element to break up large blocks of text. When formatted and positioned well, it can guide the reader’s eyes through your resume document.
Saves recruiters time
Rather than having to type your name into LinkedIn’s search bar, or even ask you for your profile link later, recruiters can simply scan the code immediately and have your full profile at their fingertips. This small time savings adds convenience on their end.
Pros | Summary |
---|---|
Provides instant access to full work history | Lets recruiters immediately see your LinkedIn profile details when they scan the code |
Demonstrates tech-savviness | Shows you are embracing modern recruiting practices and tools |
Adds visual focal point | QR code graphic stands out and guides reader’s eyes through the resume |
Saves recruiters time | Gives recruiters instant access rather than having them search for your profile manually |
Cons of putting a LinkedIn QR code on your resume
While there are benefits, there are also some potential drawbacks to consider:
Exposes more personal information
Your LinkedIn profile likely contains more personal and social information than a traditional resume would. This could include photos, hobbies, groups you’ve joined, birthdate, articles you’ve written, and more.
Some candidates may not feel comfortable providing this level of access and insight into their personal lives and interests. The QR code removes the initial filtering that a resume provides.
Risk of outdated information
Unlike a resume, you don’t provide the LinkedIn profile to the company directly. This means recruiters will be viewing whatever information currently exists on your profile when they scan the code.
If you haven’t kept your LinkedIn perfectly updated, it could conflict with or contradict information on your polished resume document. Recruiters may see outdated role descriptions, skills, volunteer work, etc.
Space taken away from resume
The QR code does take up some precious real estate on the page. For resumes that are already cramped for space, it may not be worth sacrificing those lines for the code.
Older recruiters may not use it
While mobile QR code scanning has become more mainstream, there are still some people who may not think to scan the code or understand what it’s for. This could lead them to ignore a key component of your resume.
Cons | Summary |
---|---|
Exposes more personal information | LinkedIn provides more personal info than a resume would |
Risk of outdated information | If LinkedIn profile isn’t perfectly updated, it may conflict with resume |
Space taken away from resume | QR code takes up prime real estate on the page |
Older recruiters may not use it | Some people may not know to scan the QR code |
Should you put your LinkedIn QR code on your executive resume?
For executive-level roles, including a LinkedIn QR code can be particularly beneficial. As leadership roles require more extensive vetting and reference checks, recruiters will want to do a deeper dive on your full background and professional network.
Providing instant access to this information through the QR code can give your candidacy a boost for executive positions. It shows you have nothing to hide and are willing to provide that transparency.
Executive hires are also expensive investments for companies, so showing you are adaptable to new technologies is key.
However, the risks around personal information and space constraints are heightened for executives. Be selective about what personal details are visible on your profile, and only include the QR code if you have room on a cleanly formatted resume.
Should you put a LinkedIn QR code on your resume for creative positions?
For creative roles like design, writing, programming, and more, aesthetics are key. The QR code provides a stylistic design element you can leverage in your resume layout to stand out.
Creative applicants also frequently include portfolios showcasing examples of their work. The QR code offers an instant link to your online portfolio for anyone scanning it.
However, creative roles tend to value customized, visually polished resume designs. The QR code can disrupt that polished aesthetic if not formatted well. Additionally, creative roles may be less focused on LinkedIn profiles, where hard skills are more important than networking.
Only include a QR code on creative resumes if it complements your personal brand and formatting.
Tips for effectively using a LinkedIn QR code on your resume
If you decide to add a LinkedIn QR code to your resume, here are some tips:
– Only include the QR code if you have room on the page without sacrificing core resume content. Never displace key skills or experience details.
– Place the QR code in an easily scannable spot, like next to or under your LinkedIn URL. Avoid jamming it awkwardly into a corner.
– Double check that your LinkedIn profile is fully up-to-date and professional before adding the code. Update any sections as needed.
– Test out the QR code before adding it. Scan it yourself from a printed copy to confirm it works properly and links to the correct profile.
– Use a high-quality QR code generator to create a crisp, easy-to-scan graphic. Free generators can create pixelated images.
– Remove or change private information you do not want recruiters accessing, like your birthdate, contact info, and personal interests.
– If you have concerns over privacy, wait until later in the hiring process to provide your LinkedIn URL or QR code directly when asked.
– For executive resumes, customize your LinkedIn URL with your name to make your personal brand clear. Ex: linkedin.com/in/johnsmith
Key takeaways
– Including a LinkedIn QR code on your resume provides quick access to your full profile but also exposes more personal information.
– For executive and creative roles, it can highlight technology skills but may disrupt aesthetics if not formatted well.
– Only add a QR code if space permits and your profile is fully updated. Place it in an easily scannable spot.
– Remove private information you do not want recruiters accessing through the instant LinkedIn access.
– Weigh the pros and cons based on your industry, target role, and personal preferences on what access you want to provide.
Conclusion
Whether or not to put your LinkedIn QR code on your resume is ultimately a personal choice that depends on your goals, target industry, and specific role. There are benefits around showcasing technology skills and providing quick access to work history, as well as downsides around privacy and outdated information. Consider the hiring manager perspective in your field and what will make the strongest impression. With careful formatting, updating your LinkedIn profile, and limiting personal details, a resume QR code can offer a modern avenue to showcase your professional brand and background.