Set and Forget the Perfect Holiday Auto Reply

If you’re a tradie or service business owner, the holiday period means you're either flat out squeezing in last minute jobs before the holidays or you're counting the days until you can switch off and enjoy a much needed holiday. 

Either way, your customers will still be getting in touch - booking jobs, asking questions, chasing quotes or an emergency callout. And while we definitely advocate for you getting some time to relax, you want to let your customers know what to expect over the holiday period. 

That's where a good auto-reply comes in.

Why every service business needs a holiday auto-reply

A simple auto reply can save a lot of confusion and time, for both you and your customers. Here's how it can help: 

• Manage expectations: Customers will instantly know when you'll be back, how to reach you (if needed), what your hours are or that you've received their message. 
• No need for notifications: You can confidently switch of your notifications and switch on holiday mode, knowing your customers are getting the right information.
• Reduce customer friction: An auto reply lets your customers know what's happening and stops them from blowing up your phone. 

What to include in your auto reply

The ideal auto reply is short, friendly and to the point.

You want to include:

• A quick thank-you

• Any updates to hours

• When customers can expect to hear back from you

• An alternative option (booking form, quote request, or emergency contact if you offer one)

• A warm sign-off

Auto-reply examples for trades & service businesses

Feel free to use any of the below examples for your business, adapt as needed depending on your industry, business voice and needs. 

Example 1 - Light and friendly 

Subject: Thanks for your message — we’re on break!

Message:
Hey there,
Thanks for getting in touch! We’re off the tools from [dates] for a bit of a breather. We’ll be back on deck and replying to all messages from [dates].

If you want to lock in a job for the new year, you can send a booking request here: [link]

Cheers,
The Team at [Business Name]

Example 2 - Available for emergencies

Subject: We’re on break — but emergency help is still available

Message:
Hi,
Thanks for your message. Most of our team is taking a break from [dates], but we’re still available for urgent callouts only.

For emergencies, please phone: [phone number]
For all non-urgent jobs, we’ll respond once we’re back on [dates].

Happy holidays,
[Business Name]

Example 3 - Sole Trader/One person band

Subject: I’ll get back to you soon

Message:
Hi there,
Thanks for reaching out! I’m taking a short break from [dates]. I’ll reply to any messages once I’m back on my return.

If you’d like to book a job for the new year, you can do that anytime here: [link]
Thanks for your patience — chat soon!

— [Your Name]

Tip: Add a link to an automated appointment scheduler to let your customers get their jobs lined up for the new year.