Understand the contact file

The vCard standard provides a structured way to exchange contact information such as names, organisations, phone numbers and email addresses. A downloadable file is only useful if those fields are populated sensibly. Use a recognisable display name and distinguish work details from personal details. Do not assume that a polished profile automatically produces an equally clear address-book entry; inspect the exported contact directly.

Test the receiving experience

Try saving the contact on the devices your audience commonly uses. Check whether the name, organisation and primary number appear as intended. Consider how the contact will be found weeks later, when the recipient remembers your company but not your surname. Avoid placing promotional copy into fields intended for names or phone numbers. Keep the contact concise, and leave detailed service information on the linked profile where it can be updated.

Imagine this

Hypothetical example

A hypothetical founder discovers that their contact download saves only a first name and a mobile number. Adding the company and a clear professional email makes the entry easier to recognise after an event. The team tests the corrected file on more than one phone before distributing it.

Make it practical.

Use this checklist as you read. Checks are not stored.

References & further reading

IETF: vCard Format Specification ↗

Published by Tap Tap Go. Product availability and eligibility vary by programme and market. About our stories.