November 24, 2025
During the holidays, the last thing you want is for technology issues to add to the chaos. With customers squeezing in last-minute errands, employees balancing family commitments, and everyone's stress levels soaring, seamless communication is crucial. Avoid avoidable tech mistakes that could disappoint or frustrate your audience.
Consider this your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide — because no business wants to be the one remembered for spoiling someone's day.
1. Keep Your Online Business Hours Current — Before Someone's Frustrated
Imagine a customer dashing across town on their lunch break, trusting Google that you're open, only to find your doors locked and the lights off. That's a quick way to create disappointed customers.
Where to update your hours:
- Your Google Business Profile—the critical platform
- Your social media pages like Facebook, Instagram, Yelp
- Your website banner featuring clear holiday hours
- Apple Maps (yes, many users rely on it)
Example message: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to celebrate with our families. We'll resume normal hours Monday morning—probably a bit groggy from turkey but eager to assist you!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-of-Office Replies
When taking time off, don't leave customers hanging with cold, robotic auto-responses. A thoughtful reply provides reassurance and professionalism while sounding personable.
Example auto-reply: "Thank you for reaching out! Our team is away for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll get back to you as soon as we're back and recharged. For urgent matters, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday season!"
3. Keep Your Out-of-Office Messages Brief and Professional
Stick to essentials. Customers don't need the full rundown of holiday plans like Aunt Carol's visit or the accounting team's potluck schedule.
Beyond oversharing, detailed info can possibly jeopardize security. Focus on closure dates, response timelines, and alternate contact info. Save vacation stories for your social media channels.
4. Test Your Phone System Before It Tests Your Customers
Holiday callers are often pressed for time and patience. Ensure your voicemail messages align with your current hours and offer clear directions, avoiding confusion.
Pro tip: Dial your business number yourself to verify your voicemail greeting is accurate. You might be surprised how often outdated messages linger.
Sample voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. We are currently closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we'll return your call first thing Monday. For urgent needs, 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 Disasters
If your business includes shipping or delivery, prominently share cutoff dates online and via reminder emails. This helps customers plan and reduces panic.
Late deliveries can frustrate customers, but missed expectations can damage relationships. Nobody wants to explain a birthday or anniversary gift arriving late.
Summary: Thoughtful Tech Etiquette Creates Happy Customers and Thriving Business
Holiday tech etiquette is simple: set clear expectations, communicate warmly, and respect your customers' time. A few smart updates can prevent headaches and keep your reputation shining bright this season.
Remember, it's not just about avoiding issues—it's about making your customers feel genuinely cared for, even when you're taking a break.
Looking for expert support to ensure your systems and customer experience stay flawless this holiday season? Call us at 916-626-4000 or click here to book your complimentary 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore simple strategies to keep your business running smoothly while you enjoy well-earned rest.
