The holidays are stressful enough—don’t let your technology make it worse. Customers are rushing to finish last-minute shopping, your staff is juggling family schedules, and expectations are higher than ever.
This season, a few simple tech mistakes can frustrate loyal customers or cost you business. Whether you’re running a retail shop in Knoxville or managing clients from your home office in Maryville, following a few holiday tech etiquette tips can keep everything running smoothly.
Here’s your guide to keeping communication—and goodwill—flowing this season.
1️⃣ Update Your Online Business Hours
Picture this: A customer drives across town during their lunch break because Google says you’re open… only to find your lights off and doors locked.
Avoid the bad reviews (and guilt) by updating your hours everywhere customers look:
- Google Business Profile (the big one)
- Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Your website banner or homepage
- Apple Maps
✅ Pro Tip: Post a cheerful note instead of just “Closed.”
“Happy Holidays! We’ll be closed Dec. 24–26 to spend time with family. We’ll reopen Monday morning—refueled by coffee and Christmas cookies!”
2️⃣ Set Friendly, Human Out-of-Office Replies
Your customers shouldn’t wonder if you’ve vanished into the holiday void.
A great auto-reply is friendly, short, and clear:
“Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed Dec. 24–26. We’ll reply as soon as we’re back (and caffeinated). If it’s urgent, please call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Happy Holidays!”
Avoid robotic language or oversharing—it’s not a family newsletter.
3️⃣ Keep Your Auto-Reply Professional (and Private)
Don’t tell the world you’re traveling or that “Bob from accounting” is skiing in Gatlinburg. Too much personal detail can be a security risk—especially if you mention your business is unattended.
Stick to:
✅ Dates
✅ Response time
✅ Alternate contact
Keep your personal life… well, personal.
4️⃣ Test Your Phone Systems (Before Customers Do)
Holiday callers are often in a hurry—don’t make them fight with your voicemail.
Call your own number and make sure your greeting matches your hours. Outdated messages are more common than you think (yes, even from 2019).
Example:
“You’ve reached [Business Name]. Our office is closed for the holiday weekend. Please leave a message and we’ll return your call Monday morning. Wishing you a happy holiday season!”
5️⃣ Communicate Shipping Deadlines Early
If your business ships products or sends deliveries, communicate cutoff dates clearly.
Post your “Order by” dates on your website and social media, and include them in email updates.
Missed packages and unclear shipping timelines are some of the fastest ways to lose repeat customers during the holidays.
🎄 The Bottom Line: Good Tech Manners Build Great Business
Holiday tech etiquette isn’t complicated—it’s about communication, clarity, and respect for your customers’ time.
With a few quick updates and a little planning, your business can avoid frustration, strengthen relationships, and keep your reputation merry and bright.
👉 Want to make sure your systems, phones, and emails run smoothly while you enjoy some time off? Let’s talk about holiday-ready IT support for East Tennessee businesses that keeps your customers happy—even when you’re away.
