November 24, 2025
The holiday season can be hectic enough without technology causing extra headaches. Customers are rushing to finish their last-minute shopping, employees are managing family commitments, and everyone's stress levels are sky-high. The last thing you want is to add to their frustration with preventable tech errors.
Think of this as your essential Holiday Tech Etiquette Guide—because no business wants to be the one that ruins someone's day.
1. Proactively Update Your Online Business Hours to Avoid Customer Disappointment
Imagine a hurried customer making a special trip during lunch because your Google listing says you're open—only to find the doors locked and lights off. That's a quick way to create frustrated customers.
Key places to update:
- Your Google Business Profile—the most critical platform
- Social media channels like Facebook, Instagram, Yelp where your customers look for info
- Your website's banner or homepage showcasing your holiday schedule
- Apple Maps—still widely used and influential
Example message: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 through Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend quality time with family. We'll resume regular hours Monday morning, likely with a turkey hangover but ready to assist!"
2. Craft Warm, Human Out-Of-Office Replies That Don't Feel Robotic
If you're stepping away, don't leave customers guessing. A well-crafted auto-reply acts as a friendly welcome, offering clarity and professionalism while sounding personal.
Example auto-reply: "Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We'll respond as soon as we're back and energized. For urgent matters, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Warm holiday wishes to you and yours!"
3. Keep Your Out-Of-Office Messages Simple—Skip The Personal Itinerary
Stick to the essentials. Customers don't need to hear about your Aunt Carol's visit, your office manager's Cancun trip, or Bob's "Friendsgiving" potluck adventures.
Beyond oversharing, revealing too many details can pose security risks. Focus on dates, expected response times, and alternative contacts. Save travel tales for social media updates.
4. Verify Your Phone System and Voicemail to Avoid Customer Frustration
Holiday callers are often hurried and stressed—ensure your voicemail message aligns with your current hours and provides clear directions.
Pro tip: Call your own business number to hear what customers experience—you might be surprised how outdated some greetings are.
Example voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is currently closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we'll return your call Monday morning. For urgent assistance, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!"
5. Clearly Communicate Shipping Deadlines to Prevent Last-Minute Panic
If shipping or delivery is part of your business, make sure to prominently display your order cut-off dates online and send timely email reminders. Clear communication avoids missed expectations and disappointed customers.
Late gifts can cause unnecessary stress—no one wants to explain why the anniversary present isn't arriving on time.
Final Thought: Great Tech Etiquette Builds Happy Customers and Thriving Businesses
Holiday tech manners are straightforward: set clear expectations, communicate genuinely, and respect your customers' time. Simple updates can save you headaches and keep your reputation shining bright.
Ultimately, it's not just about avoiding issues—it's about making customers feel valued, even when you're taking a break.
Need a hand fine-tuning your systems and customer experience this holiday season? Call us at 714-369-8197 or click here to book your free 15-Minute Discovery Call. Let's explore simple ways to keep your business running smoothly while you enjoy some well-deserved rest.
