November 24, 2025
Holidays can be hectic, and the last thing you want is technology adding to the stress. Customers are squeezing in last-minute errands, employees juggle family obligations, and expectations are running high. Avoid unnecessary tech glitches that could frustrate your audience during these busy times.
This is your definitive Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide—because no business wants to be remembered as the one that ruined someone's day.
1. Update Your Business Hours Across All Platforms (Prevent Angry Calls Before They Happen)
Imagine a customer racing to your location during lunch, only to find your doors locked because your online hours are outdated. That's a quick way to turn goodwill into frustration.
Ensure these are current:
- Your Google Business Profile (crucial visibility!)
- Social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Your website banner displaying holiday hours clearly
- Apple Maps updates to guide users accurately
Example update: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov 28 to Sunday, Dec 1 to celebrate with our families. We'll resume normal hours on Monday, likely a bit sleepy but ready to serve you!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-of-Office Messages (Avoid Robo-Replies)
If you're stepping away, don't leave customers guessing in an automated void. An effective auto-reply should feel welcoming and professional, like a courteous host.
Sample friendly auto-reply: "Thanks for your message! We're closed for Thanksgiving from Nov 27 to Dec 1 but will respond once we're back and refreshed. For urgent issues, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday season!"
3. Keep Out-of-Office Messages Professional and Concise (Skip The Extra Details)
Stick to the essentials. Your customers don't need your detailed travel plans or who's attending which family event. Over-sharing can seem unprofessional and even pose security concerns.
Focus on key dates, expected response times, and alternative contacts. Save the personal stories for social media.
4. Double-Check Your Phone System (So Customers Aren't Left Hanging)
Holiday callers often have limited time and patience. Verify that your voicemail greeting matches your current hours and provides clear instructions.
Pro tip: Call your own business number to test the message—you might find it's outdated from years ago.
Example voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. We are currently closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we'll get back to you Monday morning. For urgent matters, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Communicate Shipping Deadlines (Avoid Last-Minute Shipping Surprises)
If shipping is part of your business, prominently share cut-off dates on your website and send reminders via email well in advance.
Delayed deliveries cause disappointment, and missed deadlines can harm trust—no one wants to explain why a special gift arrives late.
Remember: Polished Tech Etiquette = Happier Customers = Thriving Business
Holiday tech manners aren't complicated. The key is clear communication, a personal touch, and respecting customers' time. A few thoughtful updates can smooth operations and keep your brand shining this season.
Your goal is more than avoiding issues—it's about making your customers feel valued and cared for, even when you're away.
Need expert help to keep your systems and customer experience top-notch this holiday season? Ring us at 419-678-2083 or click here to book your free 10-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore easy ways to keep your business seamless while you enjoy some well-earned downtime.
