Small Business Holiday Tech Tips (Or: How To Stop Accidental Frustration Before It Happens)
The holidays are busy enough without technology causing unnecessary headaches. Customers are rushing to finish last-minute tasks, employees are balancing family plans, and expectations are higher than ever. The last thing your business needs is to frustrate people with preventable tech mistakes.
Consider this your “Holiday Tech Manners Guide” – because no one wants to be that business that ruins someone’s day.
- Update Your Business Hours Online (Before The First Frustrated Call)
Imagine this: A customer hurries across town during their lunch break because Google says you’re open, only to find the lights off and doors locked. Congrats, you’ve just become the star of someone’s holiday frustration story.
What to Update:
- Your Google Business Profile (the main one!)
- Social media accounts like Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp – anywhere customers might be looking
- Apple Maps (yes, people really do check it)
- Your website banner with a clear, friendly holiday schedule
Sample message: “Happy Holidays! Our office will be closed from Thursday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Dec. 1 so we can enjoy time with family. We will return to regular hours Monday morning, probably a little full from holiday feasts but ready to assist!”
- Create Warm Out-Of-Office Messages (That Feel Human, Not Automated)
If you’re stepping away for a break, don’t leave customers stuck in email limbo, unsure whether you vanished into the holiday chaos. A solid auto-reply works like a welcoming concierge: polite, clear, and still very human.
Sample out-of-office message: “Thanks for your message! Our team is out for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We’ll get back to you as soon as we return and have our first cup of coffee. For urgent matters, please reach our support team at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Hope you enjoy a warm and restful holiday!”
- Avoid Adding Personal Details To Your "Out Of Office" (No One Needs a Play-By-Play Of Your Plans)
Keep your message straightforward. Customers don’t need to hear that you’re spending the week with family in Denver, that your office manager is off to sunny Cancún, or that Bob in accounting is making the rounds at a series of Friendsgiving potlucks.
Too much personal info isn’t just unnecessary. It can also lead to security concerns. Focus on the essentials like when you’ll be back, how quickly you’ll reply and who they can contact in the meantime. Save the vacation updates for your social feeds.
- Check Your Phone Systems Ahead Of Time (So They Don’t End Up Testing Your Patience)
During the holidays, callers are often rushed and stressed. Double-check that your voicemail greeting reflects your actual hours so no one ends up chasing outdated information.
Pro tip: Give your own number a ring. Seriously. You might be shocked how many businesses are still using greetings from years ago.
Sample voicemail: “Hello, you’ve reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message, and we’ll get back to you Monday morning. For urgent matters, press 1 to contact our on-call team. Wishing you a happy holiday and thank you for your patience!”
- Clearly Communicate Shipping Deadlines (Before Stress And Confusion Set In)
If your business handles shipments or deliveries, make sure customers know the deadlines well in advance. Display “order by” dates clearly on your website and follow up with reminder emails.
Late deliveries are frustrating, but missing expectations can hurt relationships. After all, nobody wants to explain to their spouse why an anniversary gift shows up in January.
Key Point: Polished Etiquette = Satisfied Customers = Strong Business
Holiday tech etiquette doesn’t have to be complicated. It’s all about setting clear expectations, communicating naturally, and respecting your customers’ time. A few small adjustments can prevent frustration and keep your business reputation shining bright.
Keep in mind: the goal isn’t just to avoid issues – it’s to ensure your customers feel valued, even when you’re away.
Looking for guidance to keep your systems (and customer experience) running smoothly this holiday season? Let’s explore simple strategies to maintain professionalism while you take a well-earned break.
Schedule your free discovery call here