With 24 years of experience in the technology sector, Arkansas Unit 17 President Jana Rowland has seen firsthand how forward-thinking solutions can drive engagement and build partnerships. Rowland applied this same mindset to her unit’s recruitment efforts, recognizing that a mobile-friendly, scannable solution could simplify the process in recruiting potential members.
 
Rowland designed and printed ALA-branded business cards that include her contact information alongside a QR code. When scanned with a smartphone camera, it opens a link to The American Legion Family membership brochure without the user having to type in the web address. Rowland hands out the business cards, along with a membership application, to potential members to ensure interested individuals can reach out with questions. 
 
For the card design and QR code creation, Rowland used the online graphic design platform Canva and researched resources on the ALA national website to maintain consistent branding for the design. In addition to Canva, Rowland said there are many user-friendly design platforms available for QR code creation and design templates. Some paid options offer analytics to track how often the code is scanned.
 
“The cards have been a game-changer,” shared Rowland. “We’ve seen increased engagement and membership interest, especially from individuals who appreciate the ease of scanning a code rather than navigating a website manually.” 
 
The response has been overwhelmingly positive, Rowland said. Active and potential members appreciate the modern approach, and often it’s the first time they’ve seen recruitment done this way. Other members in her department have embraced the cards, carrying them in their wallets, purses, and event kits, ready to share whenever the opportunity arises.
 
One of the unit’s proudest successes has been helping reestablish members to form charters after inactivity and provide new memberships to establish new charters.  
 
Rowland noted that challenges have included educating some current members on how to use QR codes and ensuring the links remain current and functional. But overall, Rowland said the simplicity and accessibility of the cards have made them a powerful recruitment tool.
 
 
Tips for creating a recruitment business card for your ALA unit

• Use a clean, branded design. Use official ALA colors and logos for consistency.
• Include a QR code link. Rowland’s cards link to The American Legion Family application found at www.ALAforVeterans.org/brochures. Another helpful link is www.ALAforVeterans.org/joining. 
• Choose the right platform that works for you. Canva is great for design and QR code generation, but explore other user-friendly tools or editing tools you already have access to and may be comfortable with. 
• Print professionally. Work with a local print shop or an online service to ensure quality.
• Educate your member recruiting team. Make sure everyone knows how to use and explain the cards.
• Use QR code links on other materials. Add QR codes to flyers linking to Facebook events or your website to boost participation, donations, and followers.
• ALA-branded stationery templates can be downloaded at member.legion-aux.org/
  Member/Resources/Stationery-Templates.