The holidays can bring joy — and chaos. Between last-minute customers, busy staff, and shifting schedules, one small tech mistake can turn goodwill into frustration fast. Whether it’s outdated hours, robotic auto-replies, or confusing voicemails, a little tech misstep can ruin someone’s day (and your reputation).
Think of this as your Holiday Tech Manners Checklist — simple fixes that keep your business running smoothly and your customers smiling.
Make sure your systems are secure and stress-free this holiday season — book a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment today.
5 Small Business Holiday Tech Survival Guide
Do these 5 steps to survive tech surge in these coming holidays:
1. Update Your Online Business Hours Before the Complaints Start
Picture this: A customer drives across town on their lunch break because your Google listing says you’re open — only to find your doors locked. Not the holiday memory you want to leave behind. Inconsistent hours online are one of the quickest ways to frustrate loyal customers.
Update these platforms before the holiday rush hits:
- Google Business Profile (the most critical one)
- Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Apple Maps and your website’s homepage
Example message:
“Happy Holidays! Our team will be off from December 24–26 to spend time with family. We’ll reopen on December 27, ready to serve you!”
For more tips on keeping your digital systems in sync, check out Microsoft Edge Settings Made Simpler.
2. Make Your Out-of-Office Replies Sound Human
If you’re stepping away, don’t leave clients guessing whether you’ll ever reply. A warm, professional auto-response reassures customers that you care — even when you’re offline.
Example:
“Thanks for your message! Our office will be closed from December 24–26. We’ll respond as soon as we’re back. For urgent support, please call (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a safe and happy holiday!”
Pro tip: Avoid robotic language. Clients respond better to a genuine tone that feels human and thoughtful.
You can enhance your communication tone even further with The Superior Communication Tool Experts Are Keeping From You.
3. Keep Out-of-Office Messages Simple (No Travel Stories!)
Your clients don’t need to know your travel plans or who’s house-sitting your cat. Sharing personal details publicly can expose your business to unnecessary security risks. Stick to the basics — dates, expected response times, and alternate contacts. Save the family updates for your personal feed.
4. Check Your Phone Systems Before Customers Do
Holiday callers are often pressed for time. An outdated voicemail can make your business look sloppy or unreliable. Test your greetings before your customers do — it’s one of the simplest ways to maintain professionalism.
Example voicemail:
“You’ve reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holidays and will reopen Monday morning. Please leave a message or press 1 for urgent support. Thank you, and happy holidays!”
If your phone system still feels clunky, Microsoft Copilot can streamline call management — learn more in The 7 Reasons Why Everyone’s Turning to Microsoft Copilot.
5. Communicate Shipping and Service Deadlines Clearly
If your business handles shipping or deliveries, missing a cutoff date can be the difference between a happy client and a frustrated one. Transparency beats apology emails every time.
- Post “Order By” deadlines prominently on your website and social media.
- Send reminder emails well before the cutoff.
- Update customers on tracking info early to avoid panic.
Your customers will appreciate it — and your support inbox will stay quieter.
Good Tech Etiquette = Happier Clients and a Smoother Holiday Season
The best businesses don’t just avoid tech problems — they prevent them. A few thoughtful updates and clear communication can keep your team calm, your customers happy, and your brand reputation shining bright this holiday season.
Want expert help ensuring your systems and communication tools stay reliable while you take a well-earned break?
Book a FREE Cybersecurity Risk Assessment today. Because great customer experiences start with great tech habits.
