November 24, 2025
The holiday season brings enough challenges without tech issues adding to the chaos. Customers are rushing to fit in last-minute plans, staff are balancing family commitments, and stress levels are sky-high. The last thing your business needs is to disappoint with preventable technology mishaps.
Consider this your Holiday Tech Etiquette Manual—ensuring you're never the company that spoils someone's day.
1. Update Your Online Business Hours Before Customer Frustration Hits
Imagine a customer speeding over during their break because Google says you're open, only to find the doors locked. You just turned them into an unhappy customer.
Where to update your hours:
- Your Google Business Profile—the most critical platform
- Social channels like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Your website's banner or homepage message announcing holiday hours
- Apple Maps—yes, this still matters!
Try this friendly announcement: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to celebrate with family. We'll reopen Monday morning, ready to assist—maybe slightly turkey-affected but fully committed!"
2. Create Warm and Professional Out-of-Office Replies
Taking a break? Don't leave your contacts wondering if you've vanished. Craft an auto-reply that's courteous, clear, and human—not robotic.
Example out-of-office message: "Thank you for reaching out! Our office will be closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll respond promptly once we're back and fueled by coffee. For urgent matters, please call (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday!"
3. Keep Your 'Out of Office' Message Brief and Relevant
Don't overwhelm customers with personal holiday plans—they don't need every detail about where you're headed or what others on your team are doing.
Besides being oversharing, it can pose security concerns. Stick to essential info like dates, expected reply times, and alternative contacts. Save the travel tales for your social media instead.
4. Test Your Phone System in Advance to Avoid Surprises
Customers calling during the holidays are often hurried and stressed. Ensure your voicemail greeting is accurate, up-to-date, and doesn't lead callers astray.
Pro tip: Call your own number—literally. You might discover your message is still stuck in 2019.
Sample voicemail script: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message; we'll get back to you Monday morning. For urgent issues, press 1 to contact our on-call team. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Communicate Shipping Cutoffs to Calm Customer Anxiety
If you handle shipping or deliveries, make your cutoff dates obvious. Display next-order deadlines prominently online and send reminder emails to avoid last-minute panic.
Late gifts cause frustration; broken expectations can damage relationships. Help customers avoid those awkward moments of explaining why the anniversary present arrives late.
Final Thoughts: Excellent Tech Etiquette Builds Loyal Customers
Holiday tech etiquette is straightforward: set clear expectations, communicate with genuine care, and respect your customers' time. Minor updates now can save major headaches and keep your reputation shining through the season.
Remember, it's not just about avoiding hiccups—it's about making your customers feel valued even when you're offline.
Need help ensuring your systems and customer experience stay seamless this holiday season? Call us at 702-896-7207 or click here to book your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's discuss effortless ways to keep operations smooth while you enjoy your well-earned time off.
