The holiday season is already stressful. Customers are rushing to get things done, employees are juggling family schedules and expectations are sky high. The last thing a small business needs is to frustrate someone because of avoidable tech slip ups.
Think of this as your Holiday Tech Manners Guide because a few simple steps can protect your reputation and make your customers feel cared for.
1. Update Your Online Hours Before The First Angry Call
Picture this: a customer races across town on their lunch break because Google says you’re open. They find locked doors and dark windows. That one missed update just created a very unhappy customer.
Where to update:
- Google Business Profile
- Facebook, Instagram and Yelp
- Your website banner
- Apple Maps
A simple, friendly holiday message goes a long way:
“Happy Holidays! We will be closed Thursday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with family. We will be back Monday morning, fully caffeinated and ready to help.”
2. Set Out Of Office Replies That Feel Human
If your team is taking time off, don’t leave customers in email limbo. A warm auto reply reassures people that their message is received and they will hear back soon.
Sample message:
“Thanks for reaching out. Our office is closed for Thanksgiving from Nov. 28 to Dec. 1. We will reply as soon as we are back and caffeinated. If this is urgent, call our support line at (217) 617 4159. Wishing you a wonderful holiday.”
3. Keep Out Of Office Replies Simple
Customers don’t need your travel plans. Oversharing creates unnecessary security risks. Stick to dates, response times and alternate contacts. Save the personal stories for friends, not auto replies.
4. Test Your Phone Systems Before They Test Your Patience
Holiday callers are often rushed and stressed. Outdated voicemail greetings can send them in circles.
Pro tip: Call your own number. Make sure your greeting matches your actual hours.
Sample voicemail:
“You have reached Tigerhawk Technologies. We are currently closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message and we will return your call Monday morning. If this is urgent, press 1 to reach our on call team or call (217) 617-4159. Happy Holidays and thanks for your patience.”
5. Share Shipping Deadlines Early
If your business ships or delivers products, set clear expectations. Post order deadlines prominently online and send reminders in advance.
Delayed packages are annoying, but missed expectations can damage relationships. A simple message before the holiday rush can save a lot of frustration later.
The Bottom Line: Good Etiquette Means Happy Customers
Holiday tech etiquette is simple. A few quick updates prevent frustration, save time and keep your reputation strong.
When you set clear expectations, communicate like a real person and respect your customers’ time, you make the holidays easier for everyone including your team.
👉 Book a free discovery call or call us at (217) 617-4159 to make sure your systems stay polished and professional this holiday season.