Hopefully, you’re taking advantage of this day off and taking a few minutes to honor the memory of those men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. Some of your clients, while probably as patriotic as the next person, aren’t focused on why you’re out of the office today. They’re so distressed that the holiday has simply slipped their minds. All they know is that it’s Monday, they’ve called and no one has called them back. A busy practice can expect at least one upset client on Tuesday morning when you get back to work.

How can you help your clients cope with your holiday absences?

Here are some suggestions – maybe you’re already doing them. If not, Labor Day will be here before you know it.

First, have your main voicemail greeting announce that the office is closed. Many phone systems allow you to program the full year of holidays at the beginning of the year.

Second, have your personal voicemail announce your position on returning calls during the holiday. Let the caller know when to expect a return call.

Third, have your email auto-responder notify those sending you email that you’re out and letting them know when you will respond. Like the phone systems, some email programs will allow you to enter all holidays for the year (or even for many years) at one time so you don’t have to remember to do it at the last minute.

Fourth, for the next holiday, send an email a few days in advance, to all clients, announcing the office closure.

Finally, during the days before the holiday, remind all callers of the holiday when you’re speaking to them and have your staff do the same.

When clients know what to expect and receive fair warning they are far less likely to react with upset.

Now go enjoy the day off. What are you doing reading this site on a holiday anyway?