As the festive season approaches, many businesses take a well-earned break.

If you’re closing or adjusting your opening hours over Christmas and New Year, it’s essential to communicate these changes clearly to your customers. After all, no one wants to arrive at a closed door or send an unanswered query!

Here are three quick and effective ways to keep your customers informed:

1. Update Your Google Business Profile: Your Google Business Profile is often the first place customers look for your opening hours. Make sure it reflects your festive schedule to avoid confusion. Updating your profile takes just a few minutes and ensures your business details are accurate across Google Search and Maps.
2. Add Holiday Hours to Your Website:  Include a clear notice on your homepage or contact page outlining your festive closures. A simple banner or pop-up can help ensure visitors see this important information straight away.
3. Send a Festive E-shot:  Why not combine your Christmas well-wishes with practical details? A friendly email can let customers know your holiday hours, any final order deadlines, and when you’ll be back in action. It’s also a great opportunity to thank them for their support throughout the year.

Why This Matters

Clear communication builds trust and avoids frustration. By keeping your customers in the loop, you ensure they know when they can reach you and how to plan ahead—helping you start the new year on the right foot.

So, before you switch on your out-of-office and reach for the mince pies, take a moment to update your details. Your customers will thank you for it!

Please note: Marketing Doris will be closed from Friday 20th December and will reopen on Thursday 2nd January. We wish all our clients a joyful and restful festive season—see you in 2025!