November 24, 2025
Holidays can be overwhelming enough without technical glitches adding to the chaos. Customers are squeezing in last-minute errands, employees are balancing family demands, and expectations are sky-high. The last thing your business needs is to disappoint with preventable technology mishaps.
Consider this your "Holiday Tech Etiquette Playbook"—because no one wants to be that business that ruins someone's day.
1. Keep Your Online Hours Updated to Avoid Frustration
Imagine a customer rushing across town during their lunch break only to find your doors closed because your hours online weren't updated. Congratulations, you've unintentionally become the villain of their story.
Update these key places:
- Your Google Business Profile (the primary spot everyone checks)
- Social media platforms: Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, wherever your customers look
- Your website banner with clear holiday hours
- Apple Maps—yes, it still matters
Example update: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1, re-opening on Monday morning. Expect us to be a bit turkey-hungover but ready to assist you!"
2. Craft Warm Out-Of-Office Replies That Truly Connect
If you're stepping away for the holidays, don't leave customers in limbo. A thoughtful auto-response acts as a welcoming guide—professionally human, not robotic.
Sample message: "Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 for Thanksgiving. We'll reply as soon as we're back and caffeinated. For urgent matters, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!"
3. Keep "Out Of Office" Messages Simple—Skip the Itinerary
Stick to the essentials. Your customers don't need to know about Aunt Carol in Denver, the office manager's Cancun trip, or Bob's Friendsgiving plans.
Over-sharing invites security risks and clutter. Focus on dates, expected response times, and alternate contacts. Save the travel tales for your social feeds.
4. Test Phone Systems to Keep Calls Smooth and Stress-Free
Holiday callers are pressed for time and patience. Ensure your voicemail greeting is current and aligns with your holiday hours, avoiding confusion.
Pro tip: Call your own number to verify—many businesses still use greetings from years ago.
Sample voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. We're currently 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 support. Happy Holidays and thank you for your understanding!"
5. Communicate Shipping Deadlines Clearly and Early
If you ship products, prominently share order deadlines online and send timely reminders to customers.
Late deliveries are frustrating, but missed expectations can damage client relationships. No one wants to explain why their anniversary gift won't arrive until January.
The Essential Takeaway: Polite Tech = Happy Customers = Thriving Business
Holiday technology manners are straightforward—set clear expectations, communicate authentically, and respect your customers' time. Quick, thoughtful updates prevent hassle and keep your reputation bright.
Remember, the goal isn't just to avoid issues but to ensure your customers feel valued, even when you're away.
Need help keeping your systems and customer experience flawless this holiday season? Call us at 817-277-1001 or click here to book your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's discuss easy ways to keep your operations seamless while you enjoy your well-deserved break.
