Holiday Tech Etiquette For Small Businesses (Or: How Not To Accidentally Ruin Someone’s Day)

The holiday season brings enough challenges without tech troubles making things harder. Customers rush to finish last-minute shopping, employees balance family commitments, and expectations are sky-high. Avoid causing frustration with preventable tech mishaps.

Consider this your Holiday Tech Etiquette Handbook—because no one wants to be that business that spoils someone's day.

1. Keep Your Online Hours Accurate (Save Yourself from Frustrated Calls)
Imagine a customer racing over during their lunch break because Google's hours say you're open—only to find your store closed and lights off. That's a quick way to earn a dissatisfied customer.

Where to update your hours:

Your Google Business Profile—the main hub
Social platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
The banner on your website displaying holiday hours
Apple Maps—don't forget about this one
Example message: "Happy Holidays! We'll be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Dec. 1 to celebrate with family. Regular hours resume Monday morning—probably with a bit of a turkey hangover, but ready to assist you!"

2. Set Warm and Personal Out-Of-Office Replies
If you're stepping away, don't leave customers wondering about your whereabouts. A personalized auto-reply acts like a courteous host—professional yet approachable.

Sample message: "Thanks for reaching out! 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, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Warm holiday wishes to you and yours!"

3. Keep Out-Of-Office Messages Simple and Relevant
Resist sharing your full holiday itinerary. Customers don't need to know you're visiting Aunt Carol or that Bob's on a "Friendsgiving" tour.

Beyond oversharing, too much info could lead to security concerns. Stick to essential details like dates, response expectations, and alternative contacts. Save the travel tales for social media.

4. Check Your Phone System Ahead of Time
Holiday callers are often pressed for time and patience. Ensure your voicemail matches your hours and guides callers efficiently.

Pro tip: Dial your own number to test. It might surprise you how many businesses have greetings last updated years ago.

Sample voicemail: "You've reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message; 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 Announce Shipping Deadlines in Advance
If you ship products, communicate cutoff dates early and clearly. Feature "order by" deadlines prominently online and send reminders via email.

Late deliveries frustrate customers, but unspoken expectations damage trust. No one wants to explain why their anniversary gift arrives late.

Final Thought: Proper Tech Etiquette Creates Delighted Customers and Thriving Business
Mastering holiday tech etiquette isn't complicated. It's about setting transparent expectations, communicating with genuine care, and respecting your customers' time. Minor adjustments can minimize headaches and keep your business reputation glowing.

Remember, the goal goes beyond avoiding issues—it's about making customers feel truly valued, even in your absence.

Braintek

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