The holidays are stressful enough without technology adding to the chaos. Customers are rushing through last-minute errands, employees are juggling family schedules, and expectations are high. The last thing your business needs is frustrated clients because of small, avoidable tech slip-ups.
Think of this as your “Holiday Tech Manners Guide” — because no one wants to be that business that accidentally ruins someone’s Tuesday.
1. Update Your Online Hours (Before You Get the Angry Call)
Picture this: A customer rushes across town because Google says you’re open, only to find your doors locked. Not a great look.
Take five minutes to update:
- Your Google Business Profile (this one’s critical)
- Social media profiles like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- A quick banner update on your website with your holiday hours
- Don’t forget Apple Maps — yes, people still use it
Sample message:
“Happy Holidays! We’ll be closed Thursday, Nov. 27 to Sunday, Nov. 30 to spend time with family. We’ll reopen Monday, rested and ready to help!”
2. Set Friendly Out-of-Office Replies (That Sound Human)
If you’re taking time off, don’t leave clients hanging. A friendly auto-reply shows you care — and that you’ll get back to them soon.
Sample message:
“Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed from Nov. 27 to Nov. 30 for the holidays. We’ll respond as soon as we’re back and caffeinated. If it’s urgent, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a wonderful holiday!”
3. Keep “Out of Office” Messages Secure
Avoid oversharing where you’re going or who’s gone — it’s unnecessary and can even pose a security risk. Scammers love details they can use for impersonation or phishing.
Stick to dates, response times, and backup contacts. Save the travel stories for social media upon your return.
4. Test Your Phone Systems (Before They Test Your Customers)
Holiday callers are often stressed and short on time. Make sure your phone systems and voicemails reflect your current hours.
✅ Call your own number.
✅ Update greetings to match your schedule.
✅ Provide an option for urgent calls if applicable.
Sample 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. Have a safe and happy holiday!”
5. Post Shipping Deadlines Early
If you ship products, communicate your cutoff dates clearly and early. Missed expectations — not just delayed packages — can hurt trust.
Post deadlines on your website, confirm them in customer emails, and send friendly reminders as the holidays approach.
The Bottom Line: Good Tech Etiquette = Happy Clients = Stronger Brand
Holiday tech etiquette isn’t complicated — it’s about setting clear expectations and communicating with care. These small actions protect your reputation and keep your customers coming back.
And remember, small tech slip-ups often reveal bigger system gaps. From outdated contact info to missed alerts, these are the same weak spots that create cyber risk exposure year-round.
Want to make sure your systems and customer experience stay polished and secure this season?
👉 Click here to Book your 10-Minute Cyber Risk Discovery Session
Because nothing says “holiday peace of mind” like a business that’s prepared — online and off.
