November 24, 2025
Holidays can be hectic enough without technology causing unexpected hurdles. With customers squeezing in last-minute errands and staff balancing family commitments, everyone's stress levels are at an all-time high. The last thing you want is to annoy your customers and employees with preventable tech hiccups.
Think of this as your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide - because no business wants to be remembered as the one that spoiled someone's week.
1. Update Your Online Business Hours (Before Frustrated Calls Start Rolling In)
Imagine this: A customer hurries across town on their lunch break because Google says you're open, only to find your doors locked and lights off. Congrats - you've unintentionally become their holiday villain.
Be sure to refresh the following promptly:
- Your Google Business Profile (critical for local search!)
- Your social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp where customers seek info
- Your website header/banner showing holiday hours clearly
- Apple Maps - it's still widely used!
Try a friendly notice like: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to celebrate with family. We'll reopen Monday morning, maybe a bit slow from turkey but eager to assist!"
2. Craft Warm Out-Of-Office Replies (With a Human Touch)
Taking time off? Avoid leaving customers stranded in e-mail limbo wondering if you're gone forever. An effective auto-reply serves as a courteous, personable gatekeeper - professional yet approachable.
Example message: "Thanks for reaching out! Our office will be closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28-Dec. 1. We'll get back to you as soon as we return and are fully caffeinated. For urgent matters, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyous holiday!"
3. Keep "Out of Office" Messages Concise (Skip the Travel Diaries)
Stick to essentials. Customers don't need to hear about Aunt Carol's Denver visit, your manager's beach trip, or Bob's holiday potluck plans.
Over-sharing not only feels excessive but can also pose security risks. Focus on dates, response timelines, and alternate contacts. Save the fun travel tales for your social channels.
4. Verify Your Phone System (So It Doesn't Test Your Patience)
Holiday callers are often pressed for time and quite anxious. Ensure your voicemail greeting accurately reflects your current hours and routes callers efficiently.
Pro tip: Dial your own number to hear the greeting firsthand—you might be surprised how many are outdated.
Sample voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message; we'll return your call Monday morning. For urgent issues, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!"
5. Publish Shipping Deadlines Early (Prevent Last-Minute Panic)
If shipping or delivery is part of your business, communicate cutoff dates clearly and well ahead of time. Display "order by" deadlines prominently and send reminder emails to customers.
Delayed packages cause frustration, but unmet expectations can damage your relationship with clients. Nobody wants to explain a belated anniversary gift arriving months late.
The Bottom Line: Proper Tech Etiquette Creates Happy Customers and Thriving Businesses
Holiday technology etiquette isn't complicated. It's about setting transparent expectations, communicating warmly and humanly, and respecting your customers' time. A few timely updates can save you from unnecessary headaches and keep your reputation shining bright.
Remember: Your goal goes beyond avoiding issues—it's about making your customers feel valued and cared for, even when you're away.
Need assistance to ensure your systems and customer experience stay flawless this holiday season? Call us at 929-523-2921 or click here to book your complimentary Call With Our CEO. Let's explore simple strategies to keep everything running smoothly while you enjoy well-earned rest.
