As the long weekend rolls around, we are sure that many of you are taking a well deserved break (maybe even longer than just the Monday off), so we thought as tribute to the Canada Day long weekend, we would show you some of our favourite out-of-office messages.
We all know that real estate is a very unique industry. As agents, you’re typically never staying in one place for long due to showings, conferences, meetings and more! It is sometimes hard to keep on top of everything, especially meeting all client needs.
Clients like to be aware of what’s going on at all times, especially when they are putting a lot of trust in their agent or sales representative. This is why we feel it is so critical to inform clients or anyone else trying to contact you when you won’t be available, or when you will be out-of-office for an extended period of time.
A witty message will likely make people crack a smile… or at the very least ensure that they feel informed rather than frustrated if you can’t get back to them right away.
Here are some of our favourites:
“I am on annual leave until [DD/MM/YYYY]. I will allow each sender one email and if you send me multiple emails, I will randomly delete your emails until there is only one remaining. Choose wisely. Please note that you already sent me one email.” Source
“Thank you for your email. Your credit card has been charged $5.99 for the first ten words and $1.99 for each additional word in your message.” Source
“Hi. I’m thinking about what you’ve just sent me. Please wait by your PC for my response.” Source
“You are receiving this automatic notification because I am out of the office. If I was in, chances are you wouldn’t have received anything at all.” Source
“I am away from the office right now. Unfortunately, I will be back tomorrow.” Source
“On vacation. Hoping to win the lottery and never return.” Source
As funny as these out-of-office messages are, there is nothing wrong with going back to basics with a simple: I am out of the office from DD/MM/YYYY to DD/MM/YYYY and if you would like assistance right now please contact (Co-workers name) or reach me at ______.
This message varies on the job and the types of people that email you on a daily basis. If your emails are typically new clients or people inquiring about your services, remember that your out of office message would be their first impression of you, and some people may not yet appreciate your comedic remarks.
Barbara Pachter, the author of “The Essentials of Business Etiquette” says that giving away too much personal information may annoy some recipients, and if you do choose to go the creative route, always remember that the perfect out-of-office message will be:
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Clear and concise
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Provide actionable information (ex. alternative person to contact)
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Have no mistakes (ex. incorrect number)
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Be removed right when you get back
