Holiday Tech Etiquette for Small Practices
(Or: How to Keep Technology From Ruining Someone’s Day Off)
Let’s be honest—the holidays can feel like a juggling act with a few extra flaming swords thrown in. Between patients trying to squeeze in last-minute appointments, your team adjusting schedules, and everyone managing their own seasonal stress, even one small tech hiccup can send things sideways fast.
That’s why now’s the perfect time for a quick tech check-in. Think of this as your holiday manners guide—for the digital side of your practice.
Because no one wants to be that office that turns a peaceful holiday into someone’s worst Tuesday.
1. Update Your Online Hours (Before the Frustration Starts)
Imagine this: A patient skips their lunch break, battles traffic and shows up at your door—only to find it locked. Google said you were open. But you’re not. That patient may never come back.
Here’s where to update your hours:
- Google Business Profile (this one’s crucial)
- Facebook, Instagram, and Yelp
- Your website homepage or banner
- Apple Maps (yep, people still use it)
📣 Need a friendly sample message?
“We’re taking a short holiday break from Thursday, Nov. 28 to Sunday, Dec. 1 to spend time with family. Back Monday morning—refreshed, grateful, and ready to serve you!”
2. Set Auto-Replies That Sound Human (Not Like a Robot)
If you’re stepping away, don’t leave your inbox hanging. A kind out-of-office message lets people know you’re still thinking of them, even if you're not replying right away.
Here’s one that strikes the right tone:
“Thanks for reaching out! We’re closed for Thanksgiving (Nov. 28–Dec. 1). We’ll respond as soon as we’re back—with coffee in hand! For anything urgent, call us at (XXX) XXX-XXXX. Wishing you a peaceful holiday!”
3. Skip the TMI in Auto-Replies
(Your Aunt Carol Doesn’t Need a Cameo)
It’s tempting to share travel plans or team vacations in your auto-responder. But oversharing can create confusion—or even pose a security risk.
Stick to:
- When you’re out
- When you’ll be back
- Who to contact in the meantime
Save the personal updates for Instagram. 😊
4. Check Your Voicemail Greeting (Yes, Actually Call Yourself)
People calling your office during the holidays are usually in a rush or feeling anxious. The last thing they need is a confusing message—or one that still says “we’re open” when you’re not.
Pro tip: Call your own number and listen.
Make sure your greeting matches your holiday hours and offers a path for urgent issues.
🎧 Sample voicemail:
“Thanks for calling [Your Practice Name]. We’re closed for the holiday weekend but will return all messages on Monday. If this is urgent, press 1 to reach our on-call support. Happy Holidays, and thank you for your patience!”
5. Share Shipping and Deadline Info Early (And Often)
If your practice ships products (whitening kits, electric brushes, etc.) or sends holiday gifts to patients or partners, don’t wait to share your timelines.
Let people know:
- Final order dates
- Expected delivery timelines
- What happens if they miss the window
🎁 A delayed package is one thing—but not knowing why it’s delayed? That’s where trust can break down.
The Big Picture: Tech Etiquette = Happier People
At the end of the day, holiday tech etiquette isn’t about perfection. It’s about being thoughtful. It’s about making people feel like you care—even when your doors are closed and you’re off enjoying a slice of pie.
A few small updates now can prevent a mountain of stress later.
💬 Want to make sure your phone system, website, or out-of-office tools are in great shape before the holidays hit?
Let’s chat. I’ll help you tighten things up so you and your team can enjoy time off—without surprise tech headaches waiting when you get back.
📅 Book your free discovery call here.
Because peace of mind? That’s the best gift you can give yourself and your patients.
If you are interested in hiring us to manage your IT infrastructure, please reach out to us here.