Imagine a customer driving across town during their lunch break because Google says you are open. They arrive to a locked door and no explanation. Now they are not just disappointed, they are irritated. And your business just got added to their never again list.
Update these immediately:
- Google Business Profile (top priority)
- Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Website header or announcement bar
- Apple Maps for iPhone users
Sample Update
Happy Holidays. We will be closed November 28 through December 1 to spend time with family. We will be back Monday morning and ready to help.
Set Friendly and Professional Out of Office Replies
If you are stepping away, do not leave people wondering whether their message disappeared into a holiday void. A warm, clear auto reply sets expectations and keeps communication smooth.
Sample Auto Reply
Thanks for your message. Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from November 28 through December 1. We will respond as soon as we return. For urgent matters, call (XXX) XXX XXXX. Have a great holiday.
Do Not Overshare Your Travel Plans
Your plans are personal. Clients do not need to know where you are going or who you are visiting. Keep your out of office simple. Include dates, expected response times, and backup contacts if needed. Too much detail is unnecessary and can create security concerns.
Call Your Own Phone Line
This step gets overlooked. Call your business number and verify that your voicemail:
- Matches your actual holiday hours
- Is current and professional
- Gives clear instructions for urgent needs
Sample Voicemail
You have reached [Business Name]. We are closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message and we will return your call Monday morning. For urgent needs, press 1 to reach our on call team. Thank you and happy holidays.
Communicate Shipping and Service Deadlines Clearly
If you ship products or provide time sensitive services, be clear about deadlines. Set realistic cut off dates and post them on your website, email, and social channels. Delays are understandable when expectations are set. Missed expectations are what damage customer trust.
Holiday Tech Etiquette Matters
You do not need advanced software to deliver a great holiday experience. Sometimes all it takes is updated hours, a kind voicemail, and clear communication. Even when you are offline, your tech is still representing your business.
Want to keep your systems polished while you take time off? We help Metro Atlanta small businesses avoid tech issues that frustrate customers and ruin goodwill.
Book Your Free Discovery Call.
Good tech manners lead to happy clients and a more peaceful holiday season for you.
