November 23, 2025
Managing the holiday rush is challenging enough without technology hiccups making things worse. Your customers are squeezing in last-minute errands, your team is balancing family commitments, and emotions are high. Don't let avoidable tech issues add to the stress and frustrate your audience.
Consider this your essential Holiday Digital Etiquette Guide—because no business wants to be remembered as that one that spoils someone's day.
1. Update Your Online Business Hours Before Confusing Customers
Imagine a customer rushing across town during their lunch break based on your Google hours, only to find your business closed. Congratulations—you've unintentionally become the villain in someone's story.
Make sure to update:
- Your Google Business Profile—the most visible and critical source
- Social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp where customers search for you
- Your website banner to clearly communicate holiday hours
- Apple Maps, as many rely on it for navigation
Example update: "Happy Holidays! Our office will be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to enjoy time with family. We'll reopen Monday, ready and eager (despite the turkey hangover) to assist you!"
2. Craft Warm Out-of-Office Messages That Sound Genuine
Taking a break? Don't leave customers wondering if you've vanished into thin air. A thoughtfully worded auto-reply acts like a courteous host who's away but attentive and approachable.
Suggested auto-reply: "Thanks for contacting us! We're closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1 and will respond as soon as we're back and caffeinated. For urgent issues, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a joyful holiday season!"
3. Keep Out-of-Office Replies Concise—Skip the Personal Travel Details
Stick to the essentials. Customers don't need the play-by-play of your Aunt Carol visit, the office manager's Cancun trip, or Bob from accounting's Friendsgiving adventures.
Sharing too much can lead to privacy concerns and security risks. Focus on your absence dates, when you'll reply, and alternative contact options. Save the stories for your social media updates.
4. Verify Your Phone Systems Are Up to Date Before They Test Patience
Holiday callers are often pressed for time and stressed. Ensure your voicemail matches your current hours and doesn't leave callers confused or frustrated.
Pro Tip: Call your own business line regularly. You'd be surprised how often greetings are outdated and misleading.
Sample voicemail script: "Hello, you've reached [Business Name]. We're closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message and we'll return your call Monday morning. For urgent matters, press 1 to reach our on-call support. Happy Holidays and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Alert Customers to Shipping Deadlines to Avoid Last-Minute Stress
If your business ships products, proactively share order deadlines. Display "order by" dates prominently on your website and send reminders via email.
Delayed deliveries can ruin plans; missed deadlines damage customer trust. Ensure your customers know exactly when to order to get gifts on time—no one wants to explain why an anniversary present arrives in January.
In Summary: Clear Communication + Thoughtful Tech = Delighted Customers
Good holiday tech etiquette isn't complicated. It boils down to setting clear expectations, speaking with warmth and clarity, and respecting your customers' time. A few smart updates can preserve your reputation and keep your business thriving through the busy season.
Remember: The aim isn't just to avoid issues—it's to make your customers feel genuinely cared for, even when you're offline.
Need expert assistance to keep your systems glitch-free and your customer experience polished this holiday season? Reach out at 1300 765 014 or click here to book your complimentary 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore easy ways to keep your business running smoothly while you enjoy some well-earned relaxation.
