November 24, 2025
Holidays can be hectic enough without technology causing extra headaches. Customers are squeezing in last-minute shopping, employees are balancing family commitments, and stress levels are sky-high. The last thing your business needs is to disappoint anyone due to preventable tech errors.
Consider this your Essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide — because no one wants to be remembered as the business that ruined someone's day.
1. Proactively Update Your Online Business Hours to Avoid Angry Customers
Imagine a customer dashing across town on their lunch break, relying on Google for your hours, only to discover your shop is closed. That's an easy way to create frustration and lose trust.
Make sure to update:
- Your Google Business Profile, the primary source for customers
- Your social pages: Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, and any other platforms customers check
- The website banner with clear holiday hours
- Apple Maps listings, since many still use it
Example update: "Happy Holidays! We will be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with family. We'll reopen Monday morning, likely a bit turkey-hungover but ready and eager to assist you!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-of-Office Auto-Responses
When you're away for the holidays, don't leave clients waiting in silence. An inviting auto-reply acts like a courteous host—professional yet approachable.
Sample auto-reply: "Thank you for contacting us! Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll reply promptly once we're back and caffeinated. For urgent matters, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Warm holiday wishes to you and yours!"
3. Keep Out-of-Office Messages Simple and Secure
Avoid oversharing holiday plans in your auto-response. No need to detail Aunt Carol's visit to Denver or Bob's potluck schedule.
Too much information might invite security risks. Stick to relevant details like closure dates, expected reply times, and alternative contacts. Save personal updates for your social media channels.
4. Double-Check Phone Systems So They Don't Test Your Customers' Patience
During busy holidays, callers are often in a hurry and stressed. Make sure your voicemail greeting matches your current hours and clearly guides them.
Pro tip: Call your own business number to verify the message. You'd be amazed how many greetings haven't been updated since 2019.
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 issues, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Communicate Shipping Cutoffs Before Panic Ensues
If you offer shipping or delivery, be sure customers know exactly when to place orders for holiday arrival. Highlight cutoff dates on your website and send timely email reminders.
Late deliveries cause disappointment, but mismanaged expectations can damage customer relationships. Avoid holiday gift mishaps with upfront communication.
The Bottom Line: Polished Tech Etiquette Leads to Happier Customers and Better Business
Holiday technology etiquette is straightforward: set clear expectations, communicate authentically, and respect your customers' time. A few thoughtful updates can prevent headaches and keep your reputation shining bright.
Remember, success isn't just about avoiding problems; it's about making customers feel valued, even when you're away.
Need help keeping your systems and customer experience flawless this holiday season? Give us a call at (858) 538-4729 or click here to schedule your free Consultation, and let's talk about simple ways to keep everything running smoothly while you enjoy some well-deserved time off.
