November 24, 2025
The holiday season can be overwhelming, and the last thing you want is technology issues adding to the stress. With customers rushing to finish last-minute shopping, employees balancing family commitments, and everyone's expectations higher than ever, smooth tech operations are essential to maintaining goodwill.
Consider this your Holiday Tech Etiquette Handbook—because no one wants their favorite business to be the source of holiday headaches.
1. Keep Your Online Business Hours Up-to-Date (Before Disappointed Customers Call)
Imagine a customer dashing across town on their lunch break because your Google listing says you're open—only to find the doors locked and lights off. That's a surefire way to create frustration.
Where to update your hours:
- Your Google Business Profile (the most visible and important!)
- Your Facebook, Instagram, Yelp pages, or any platform customers visit
- Your website, with a prominent and friendly holiday hours banner
- Apple Maps, since many users rely on it
Example message: "Happy Holidays! Our office will be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to celebrate with family. We'll resume regular hours on Monday, likely a bit sluggish from turkey but ready to assist!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-Of-Office Messages
If you're stepping away for the holidays, don't leave your customers hanging with cold, robotic auto-replies. A thoughtfully written message serves as a courteous and professional touchpoint.
Suggested auto-reply: "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 fueled by caffeine. 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 Focused (Skip the Personal Details)
Simple is best. Customers don't need to hear about your Aunt Carol's visit to Denver or Bob's "Friendsgiving potluck." Sharing too much can also risk privacy and security.
Stick to the essentials: dates of closure, expected response times, and alternative contact info. Save the stories for your social media followers.
4. Verify Your Phone System Before It Tests Your Customers' Patience
People calling during the holidays are often stressed and in a hurry. Make sure your voicemail messages accurately reflect your current hours and provide clear instructions to avoid confusion.
Pro tip: Give your own business number a test call—you might be surprised to find outdated messages lingering since 2019.
Example voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we will return your call on Monday morning. If urgent, press 1 to connect with our on-call team. Happy Holidays and thank you for your patience!"
5. Communicate Shipping Cutoffs Early to Prevent Last-Minute Panic
If your business ships products, clearly communicate order deadlines well in advance. Prominently display "order by" dates on your website and send reminders to customers to avoid disappointment.
Delayed deliveries can sour customer relationships, so setting and managing expectations is key. No one wants to explain why their special gift won't arrive on time.
The Takeaway: Respectful Tech Practices Lead to Thrilled Customers and Thriving Business
Holiday tech etiquette boils down to clear communication, authenticity, and respect for your customers' time. Taking just a few proactive steps can prevent frustration and keep your reputation shining bright throughout the season.
Ultimately, your goal is not just to avoid issues, but to make customers feel genuinely valued, even while you're enjoying a well-earned break.
Need assistance ensuring your systems and customer experience remain seamless this holiday season? Call us at 817-589-0808 or click here to book your free 30-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore simple ways to keep your operations running effortlessly while you relax and recharge.
