The holidays are here, and it’s time to step away from the desk. As a small business owner, taking a vacation can feel daunting, but with a little planning, you can enjoy your well-earned break without disrupting your workflow. Did you know 81% of business owners work nights, and 89% work weekends? You’ve earned this! Here’s how to prepare:
1. Give Advance Notice
Communication is key. Let your clients, team, and vendors know about your vacation schedule two to four weeks in advance. Send an email or make calls to explain your availability and share details about who they can contact in your absence. Consider setting deadlines for any critical projects or tasks before you leave. This gives everyone time to adjust and ensures you don’t return to a mountain of urgent requests.
2. Preschedule Content
Your digital presence doesn’t need a vacation just because you do. Use scheduling tools like Hootsuite, Buffer, or your social media platform's native scheduling features to queue up posts. Write blog articles or newsletters in advance and schedule them for release while you're away. If you use email platforms like Gmail or Outlook, you can also schedule responses or updates to be sent at specific times. Staying visible while you’re offline helps maintain your brand’s momentum.
3. Turn Your Out-of-Office Message into an Opportunity
Out-of-office (OOO) messages aren’t just about stating you’re unavailable—they’re an opportunity to connect meaningfully. Share a personal insight about why you're taking a break or highlight something valuable for your clients.
For example:
"Hi! I’m currently out of the office enjoying the holidays and recharging for an exciting new year. I’ll be back on [return date] and will respond to your email as soon as possible. In the meantime, here’s a great article on block scheduling to help you maximize your productivity. Have a wonderful holiday season!"
This approach shows your human side while providing value to the recipient, leaving a positive impression.
4. Hire Help for the Heavy Lifting
Even with careful planning, there are always last-minute tasks or ongoing responsibilities that need attention. Hiring a virtual assistant (VA) can be a game-changer. A VA can handle client inquiries, reschedule appointments, post content, or manage administrative tasks while you’re away. Think of them as your behind-the-scenes support, ensuring your business keeps running smoothly. At Creative PlanHer, we specialize in creating tailored out-of-office plans and ensuring your social media stays active—even when you’re offline.
5. Set Boundaries and Stick to Them
This step isn’t logistical; it’s mental. Resist the urge to check emails or “quickly” handle tasks while on vacation. Communicate your boundaries clearly to clients and team members, and stick to them. A real break is essential for your mental health, creativity, and productivity. Trust the systems and supports you’ve put in place to keep things moving.
With these tips, you can enjoy a stress-free vacation and return to work feeling refreshed and ready to tackle the new year!