November 24, 2025
Holiday seasons can be challenging enough without technology adding to the chaos. Your customers are rushing to complete last-minute errands, your team is balancing family commitments, and everyone's expectations are higher than ever. The last thing you want is to frustrate anyone due to preventable tech errors.
Consider this your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide—because no business wants to be remembered as the one that spoiled someone's day.
1. Update Your Business Hours Online Before the First Complaints Roll In
Imagine a customer dashing across town on a lunch break only to find your doors locked despite what Google says. That's a surefire way to create a disappointed customer.
Make sure to update:
- Your Google Business Profile — it's critically important!
- Your Facebook, Instagram, Yelp profiles and any platforms your customers use
- Your website's holiday schedule banner with clear hours
- Apple Maps listings, since many rely on it too
Sample update: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with loved ones. We'll reopen Monday morning—probably a bit sleepy but eager to assist!"
2. Craft Warm and Personable Out-of-Office Replies
When you're away, don't leave customers guessing if you're ever coming back. An auto-reply should feel like a courteous host—professional yet approachable.
Example message: "Thanks for your message! Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll respond as soon as we're back and refreshed. If urgent, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Warm holiday wishes to you!"
3. Keep Your Out-Of-Office Messages Concise and Secure
Avoid oversharing your personal holiday plans. Customers don't need details about Aunt Carol in Denver or Bob's potluck journey. Over-disclosure not only feels excessive but can also pose security risks.
Focus on key info: dates, when you'll respond, and alternative contacts. Save the travel stories for your social channels.
4. Verify Your Phone System Is Ready to Handle Holiday Traffic
During the busy holiday rush, callers expect quick answers. Ensure your voicemail greeting matches your current hours and guides callers efficiently.
Tip: Call your business number yourself. You might be surprised to find greetings stuck in the past.
Sample voicemail: "Hello, you've reached [Business Name]. We're 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 understanding!"
5. Clearly Communicate Shipping Deadlines to Avoid Last-Minute Panic
If your operations include deliveries, proactively share cutoff dates online and through timely customer reminders. Late orders can sour experiences and damage relationships. Nobody wants to explain a late gift.
Your Holiday Success Formula: Clear Communication + Consideration = Loyal Customers
Honoring holiday tech etiquette is straightforward. It's about setting clear expectations, engaging genuinely, and valuing your customers' time. Just a few thoughtful updates can make the season smoother and keep your reputation shining bright.
Remember, the aim isn't simply avoiding mishaps—it's ensuring your customers feel valued, even when you're offline.
Need a hand perfecting your systems and customer experience this holiday season? Reach out at 907-865-3100 or click here to schedule your free Discovery Call. Let's explore easy ways to keep your operations running smoothly while you enjoy well-earned downtime.
