November 24, 2025
Holidays bring enough challenges without technology adding to the chaos. Customers are squeezing in last-minute tasks, employees balance family commitments, and everyone's expectations are soaring. The last thing you want is to cause frustration with preventable tech issues.
Consider this your Holiday Tech Etiquette Handbook—because no business wants to be remembered as the one that ruined someone's day.
1. Update Your Online Business Hours Before Any Frustrated Calls Roll In
Imagine a customer rushing during their lunch break, trusting Google's hours, only to find your store closed. That's a recipe for disappointment and a bad review.
Be sure to update:
- Your Google Business Profile—the must-have for every business
- Social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp where customers search
- Your website's holiday notice banner with friendly, clear hours
- Apple Maps, because yes, many users rely on it
Example message: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to enjoy time with our families. Regular hours resume Monday morning — likely with some leftover turkey, but ready to serve you!"
2. Craft Warm, Genuine Out-Of-Office Replies That Feel Human
If you're away, don't leave customers guessing if you've vanished. A thoughtful auto-reply acts like a welcoming greeter—professional and personable.
Sample auto-reply: "Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll get back to you as soon as we return and recharge. For urgent matters, call (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Warm holiday wishes to you and yours!"
3. Keep Your Out-Of-Office Messages Simple; Skip Excess Details
There's no need for customers to know every holiday plan—from Aunt Carol's visit to Bob's potluck route. Sharing too much can overshare and raise security concerns.
Stick to the essentials: dates you're away, when you'll reply, and alternate contacts. Save the fun stories for your social channels.
4. Double-Check Your Phone System Before It Tests Your Customers' Patience
People calling during holidays are often hurried and stressed. Ensure your voicemail greeting clearly reflects your holiday hours and guides callers appropriately.
Pro tip: Dial your own number to test it. You'd be shocked how many greetings are outdated by years.
Example voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we'll return your call Monday morning. For urgent assistance, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Share Shipping Deadlines to Beat Last-Minute Stress
If you ship products, be upfront about order deadlines. Highlight your cut-off dates prominently and remind customers via email.
Late packages cause frustration; missed expectations damage trust. Nobody wants to explain why an anniversary gift arrives months late.
In Summary: Respectful Tech Habits Build Happy Customers and Strong Businesses
Mastering holiday tech etiquette is simple: set clear expectations, communicate warmly, and value your customers' time. Small changes now prevent big headaches later and keep your reputation shining bright.
Remember: Good tech manners aren't just about avoiding problems—they're about making customers feel cared for, even when you're away.
Need support to polish your systems and customer experience this holiday season? Call us at 859-245-0582 or click here to book your free Discovery Call. Let's explore simple strategies to keep your operations smooth so you can truly enjoy your time off.
