Running a small business is a rewarding endeavor. Being successful in your small business is especially satisfying if you’re able to discover a few helpful shortcuts along the way.
Now and then you’ll find yourself unable to keep up with your work emails, either because you’re taking a much deserved break, attending a conference or dealing with personal matters that need your attention instead of your day-to-day business tasks.
That means it’s time to put up an out of office message.
As a small business owner myself, when I’m working overtime trying to tie up loose ends before going away for a couple days, every second counts. That’s why I’ve templatized my out-of-office messages.
Each one comes in handy and serves a different purpose for my absence and ensures smooth communication with my clients, partners and colleagues.
I’m sharing them with you below and hope the collection of out-of-office templates that I use can be a helpful shortcut for you. Feel free to copy/paste and fill in the blanks as needed or adapt them and make them your own.
Basic Out-of-Office Message Template
![](https://b1887246.smushcdn.com/1887246/wp-content/gallery/blog-post-out-of-office-message-template-make-your-small-business-stand-out/out-of-office-messages-1.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1?i=134492068)
Hello,
Thank you for reaching out! I’m currently out of the office and will not be available until [Date of Return]. During this time, I may have limited access to email.
If your matter is urgent, please contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number]. Otherwise, I’ll get back to you as soon as possible upon my return.
Respectfully,
[Your Name]
Vacation Out-of-Office Message
Hi,
I’m currently taking some time off to recharge and relax. I will not be available until [Date of Return]. During this period, I won’t have regular access to email.
If your matter is urgent, please contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number]. I’ll prioritize catching up with you when I’m back to work.
Have a nice day,
[Your Name]
Conference Attendance
![](https://b1887246.smushcdn.com/1887246/wp-content/gallery/blog-post-out-of-office-message-template-make-your-small-business-stand-out/out-of-office-messages-2.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1?i=676508635)
Hi,
I’m currently away from my office in order to attend an industry conference from [Conference Start Date] to [Conference End Date].
I’ll be checking my email periodically during this time but may not be able to respond to your message immediately. If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number].
Thank you,
[Your Name]
Extended Leave for Personal Reasons
Hello,
I’m currently on an extended leave for personal reasons. While I may not be checking my email as frequently, I’ll do my best to stay updated on urgent matters.
If you need immediate assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number]. Your patience and support during this time are greatly appreciated.
Take care,
[Your Name]
Project-Specific Out-of-Office Message
![](https://b1887246.smushcdn.com/1887246/wp-content/gallery/blog-post-out-of-office-message-template-make-your-small-business-stand-out/out-of-office-messages-4.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1?i=513599387)
Hi,
Thanks for getting in touch. I’m currently on deadline for an important project and will be dedicating my full attention to it until [Project Completion Date]. Before then, my availability may be limited.
For any immediate needs, please contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number]. Your understanding as I work to deliver exceptional results is appreciated.
Talk to you soon,
[Your Name]
Generic Holiday Out-of-Office Message
Dear [Client/Colleague’s Name],
Happy [Name of Holiday]. I’m currently spending quality time away from the office and will be away from [Start Date] to [End Date].
If your matter requires immediate attention, please contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone Number]. Wishing you a joyful holiday and looking forward to reconnecting with you following the break.
Warmest wishes,
[Your Name]
Strengthen Your Company, Even While You’re Away
Crafting effective out-of-office messages is a cornerstone of successful communication for small business owners. Pick a tailored out-of-office message template that fits your scenario and then step away with the confidence that everything will be OK when you come back.
With these out-of-office messages, you’ll ensure your business maintains its reputation for reliability and dedication.
![](https://b1887246.smushcdn.com/1887246/wp-content/gallery/blog-post-out-of-office-message-template-make-your-small-business-stand-out/out-of-office-messages-3.jpeg?lossy=1&strip=1&webp=1?i=757836109)
Reach Out for Brand Photography
Another great way to enhance your small business’s brand image is by using personal brand photography. My team and I at Taylored Photo can boost your brand with one of our personal brand photography sessions. Get in touch with us today to power up your small business.
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