November 24, 2025
The holiday season can already be overwhelming—dont let technology mishaps add to the chaos. As customers hustle to complete last-minute to-dos and employees balance family commitments, tensions run high. Avoid frustrating everyone with simple tech missteps that could easily be prevented.
Consider this your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide to ensure your business stays helpful and approachable—not the one people dread dealing with.
1. Proactively Update Your Online Business Hours to Avoid Annoyed Customers
Imagine a customer rushing over during their lunch break because Google said you were open—only to find your store closed and dark. Congratulations, youve unintentionally created a frustrating experience.
Make sure to update:
- Your Google Business Profile—the most visible place customers check
- Your social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Yelp to keep everyone informed
- Your website banner, clearly showing any holiday schedule changes
- Apple Maps, which many users rely on for directions
Try a message like: "Happy Holidays! Well be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with family. Well resume normal hours Monday morning—likely a bit tired but ready to serve you!"
2. Craft Warm, Personable Out-Of-Office Auto-Replies
When you step away, dont leave customers hanging with cold, robotic auto-responses. Your automatic replies should feel like a friendly voice welcoming them even during your absence.
Example auto-reply: "Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. Well get back to you as soon as were back and fueled by coffee. For urgent matters, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday season!"
3. Keep Your "Out Of Office" Messages Professional and Brief
Theres no need to share your holiday itinerary like youre broadcasting a travel vlog. Customers dont need to know that youre visiting family in Denver or that Bob from accounting is on a potluck spree.
Excessive details not only overwhelm but can also pose security concerns. Stick to clear dates, when youll respond, and alternative contacts if available. Save vacation stories for your social channels.
4. Test Your Phone Systems Early to Spare Everyone Frustration
Holiday callers are often pressed for time and patience. Make sure your voicemail greeting matches your current hours and guides callers smoothly, instead of confusing them.
Pro tip: Dial your own number to listen firsthand. You might be shocked to find greetings from years ago still playing.
Sample voicemail: "Youve reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message and well return your call Monday morning. For urgent help, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays and thanks for your patience!"
5. Share Shipping Deadlines Clearly and Well in Advance
If your business ships products, communicate order deadlines early and clearly. Prominently post "order by" dates on your website and remind customers with timely emails.
Late deliveries cause frustration; missed expectations damage trust. No one wants to explain why a special gift arrived months late.
In Summary: Polished Tech Etiquette Builds Happy Customers and Thriving Business
Holiday tech etiquette is simple: set clear expectations, communicate warmly and honor your customers time. These quick adjustments will stop frustration before it starts and keep your brand shining bright.
Remember, its not just about avoiding problems—its about making your customers feel valued, even in your absence.
Need expert guidance to keep your systems and customer experience seamless this holiday season? Call us at 919-741-5468 or click here to schedule your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Lets explore easy ways to maintain smooth operations while you enjoy well-earned time off.
