The holidays are stressful enough without technology tripping you up. Customers are squeezing in last-minute errands, employees are juggling family schedules, and expectations are sky-high. The last thing you want is to frustrate people with avoidable tech slip-ups. Think of this as your Vancouver-focused “Holiday Tech Manners Guide” because nobody wants to be that business that ruins someone’s day.

1. Update Your Online Hours (Before Your First Angry Phone Call)

Picture this: A customer rushes across town during their lunch break because Google says you’re open, only to find your door locked. Congratulations, you’ve just created someone’s villain origin story.

What to update:

  • Your Google Business Profile (the big one!)
  • Facebook, Instagram, Yelp, anywhere customers might find you
  • Your website banner with a friendly holiday schedule
  • Apple Maps (yes, people actually use it)

2. Set Friendly Out-Of-Office Replies (That Don’t Sound Robotic)

If you’re taking time off, don’t leave customers in e-mail purgatory. A good auto-reply is professional but human.

Sample out-of-office message: “Thanks for reaching out! Our office is closed for the holidays. We’ll respond as soon as we’re back and caffeinated. If it’s urgent, call our support line at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday!”

3. Don’t Overshare In Your “Out Of Office”

Keep it simple. Customers don’t need your travel itinerary. Oversharing creates security risks. Stick to dates, response times and alternate contacts.

4. Test Your Phone Systems (Before They Test Your Patience)

Holiday callers are often in a rush. Make sure your voicemail greeting matches your hours.

Pro tip: Call your own number. Outdated greetings frustrate customers.

Sample voicemail: “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. If this is urgent, press 1 to reach our on-call team. Happy Holidays!”

5. Communicate Shipping Deadlines (Before The Panic Sets In)

If your business involves shipping or deliveries, communicate deadlines clearly and early. Post your “order by” dates prominently online and send reminder e-mails.

The Bottom Line: Good Etiquette = Happy Customers = Good Business

Holiday tech etiquette isn’t rocket science. It’s about setting clear expectations, communicating like a human being and respecting your customers’ time. A few quick updates can prevent frustration and keep your business reputation merry and bright.

Want help making sure your systems stay polished and professional this holiday season? Let’s talk about simple ways to keep everything running smoothly while you enjoy some well-deserved time off.

Book your free discovery call here: Schedule a call