Vacation season has arrived! Even if you haven’t personally taken time away from work yet, you must’ve noticed the uptick in social media posts with families sharing their obligatory beach photo sesh in matching outfits. Hopefully, it’ll be your turn soon enough!
When the time comes for you to switch on your out-of-office notification, consider something clever for your automated email response. At least you can offer some interesting reading for those who’ve been left behind to manage the daily grind! It also can demonstrate that you value work-life balance and can encourage others to share that mindset.
Here are some creative OOO messages to punch things up:
“Hi there,
You got this email immediately (classic autoresponder behavior), which means I’m out of office on vacation.
While I hypothetically could reach my email, have my phone in my hand, and of course have access to WiFi, I’d rather enjoy time with my family. My kids are growing up at the speed of a supersonic jet, and if I blink one more time, they’ll be 35. And I’ll be 73. And I don’t want that.
If you still need to reach me, you can email interruptingfamilytime@example.com. Or you can email my assistant at assistant@example.com. They can point you in the right direction.
Looking forward to reconnecting once I’m back.”
……………………………
“Hello,
I’m currently out of the office, enjoying some peanuts and Cracker Jacks with my family. Can you guess where I am? That’s okay, you’re busy.
If your message is urgent, fear not — we’ll get it addressed. Try doing one of two things:
- Send me an email at TheresNoCryingInBaseball@example.com.
Just kidding. That’s not a real email address.
- Reach out to my manager at manager@example.com in my absence.
I’ll be back in the office on [return date] and will happily respond then.
Have a great weekend!”
…………………………….
“I'm physically out of the office, but mentally, I'm still here...just kidding! I'm fully embracing vacation mode and will respond to your email when I return.”
…………………………….
“Out of Office.
Vacation mode: activated.
Productivity mode: deactivated.
I'll be back in the office on [return date], but for now, I'm focusing on recharging my batteries.”
…………………………….
“I'm taking a much-needed staycation to catch up on sleep, Netflix, and doing absolutely nothing. I'll be back in the office on [return date], refreshed and ready to tackle my inbox.”
…………………………….
If your email client allows images, you can insert a picture to tell the story.
There is even an Out of Office Email Generator by HubSpot where you can enter select details and it will produce glorious results! Check it out https://ooogenerator.com/
Whatever approach you take, always remember to find a balance between funny and professional. You don’t want to alienate colleagues who are filling in for you, and you don’t want to seem careless to clients and customers.
While this is a great way to share your personality and connect with your network, your OOO message does serve an actual purpose. Be sure to include your return date and an alternate contact so people can get support in your absence.
Happy Summer!