While the humble QR code may never have reached the dizzying heights its creators envisaged (at least in Australia and New Zealand), the plucky squares of data are far from dead.

In fact, LinkedIn reckons they can help you connect with your next potential contact.

Code Blue

Enter the LinkedIn QR Code. It's intended to replace the business card, sort of.

So the next time you're at a networking event and want to swap details, you can now open the LinkedIn app and scan your new pal's LinkedIn QR code. Voila – you're now connected without having to swap personal details.

You can view your contact's profile, see mutual acquaintances, and send a connection request.

Spread the word

If you like the idea of QR codes, LinkedIn has plenty of suggestions on how to use them. You could, for example, add them to websites, newsletters, lanyards, conference badges, even on your resume. You can also add a QR image to jazz things up.

To find your QR code, head to the My Code section of the LinkedIn app on iOS and Android.