November 24, 2025
Holidays can be chaotic enough without your technology letting you down. Customers rush to complete last-minute errands, employees juggle family commitments, and everyone's stress levels are sky-high. The last thing you want is to frustrate anyone with avoidable tech mishaps.
Consider this your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Handbook — because no business wants to be known as the one that wrecked someone's day.
1. Update Your Online Hours Before Frustrations Rise
Imagine a customer dashing across town on their lunch break, trusting your Google listing that you're open, only to find your doors locked and lights off. Congrats, you've just created a disappointed customer.
Don't forget to update:
- Your Google Business Profile — the key hotspot for customers.
- Social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Yelp — wherever your customers look.
- Your website banner highlighting your holiday schedule.
- Apple Maps — yes, it matters more than you think.
Try this message: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with family. We'll reopen Monday, likely nursing a turkey hangover but ready to assist you!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-Of-Office Replies
Taking time off? Don't leave your customers in the dark with cold auto-replies. A thoughtful, personable message shows you care, even when you're away.
Example: "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're back and caffeinated. For urgent matters, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday!"
3. Keep Out-Of-Office Messages Professional and Concise
Less is more. Your customers don't need to hear about Aunt Carol in Denver or Bob's potluck schedule. Stick to essential info: dates, response times, and alternative contacts. Save the travel stories for your social media.
4. Test Your Phone Systems Before They Test Your Customers
Holiday calls are often urgent and rushed. Ensure your voicemail greeting is up-to-date and aligns with your current hours—no one likes chasing outdated info.
Pro tip: Call your own business number and listen carefully. You might discover greetings stuck in the past.
Sample voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message; 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 Communicate Shipping Deadlines to Avoid Last-Minute Stress
If you ship products, be proactive—highlight order deadlines prominently and send timely reminders. Late packages frustrate customers, but nothing damages trust like missed expectations.
Remember, no one wants to explain why an anniversary gift shows up weeks late.
The Bottom Line: Polished Tech = Happier Customers = Thriving Business
Holiday tech etiquette means setting clear expectations, communicating with warmth, and respecting everyone's time. Just a few quick tweaks can save headaches and keep your reputation shining bright.
Don't just avoid issues — show your customers you truly care, even when you're offline.
Need assistance perfecting your systems and elevating customer experience this holiday season? Call us at 320-310-4321 or click here to book your complimentary 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore simple solutions to keep your operations smooth while you enjoy your well-earned break.
