How to Write The Best Out Of Office Message
This year I’ve made an effort to completely disconnect from the office while I’m on vacation. No conference calls, emails, or work of any kind. Being AWOL for extended periods of time, I needed to post a few out of office messages. I didn’t want just any lame out office message; you know the one that comes to mind.
I wanted to use my absence as an opportunity to share some recent press that my company, Opternative received. I got some great feedback!
Here’s My Latest Out of Office Message
Here’s My Formula
Before we start, forget everything you know about what an out of office message should be. The original, boring, vanilla away message will be passed over.
1. Subject Line
It’s pretty simple, DO NOT USE THE PHRASE ‘OUT OF OFFICE’. I know exactly what your message is the moment I read that subject line, no one’s home. Your goal is to get your automated response opened. Let’s get creative. Remember, this person emailed you, any rules you have about subject line’s for cold emails is worth ZERO. A few examples I like that you can play with:
“I’m out, but there’s still hope”
“If this is an emergency, don’t dial 911!”
“Do you seriously need me right this second???”
“Purple Monkey Dishwasher” (Just kidding, but honestly, this is a better subject line than “Out of Office 8/31”)
2. Your Availability
Of course, let your readers know what dates you will be out. Open with this. Here’s the fun twist, don’t simply tell them the dates that you’re out, tell them what you’re up to. Swimming with stingray? Seeing the Rolling Stones farewell show? Share!
3. Specific Contact Emails
Make sure whoever is trying to reach you is taken care of. Direct them to the right person on your team. Don’t be afraid to list more than one contact. I usually list a contact for marketing matters and another contact for press inquiries.
4. Shameless Plug
Now’s your big chance! This is where you will get can get value out of your out of office message. What do you want your reader to click on? Your recent press? A webinar that you’re hosting? Share it!
Get Lazy, Use My Template
Hey You!
I’m out of the office [what you’re doing] [how long/dates] with no cell reception or internet. I’m like a broken cyborg!
If this is an emergency, please email my champion, [The poor soul that has to deal with your emergencies while you’re gone] and they will take care of you faster than you can say “Yo! MTV Raps.”
In the meantime, have you seen [your plug or link]? I’ve been working on it all month, let me know what you think.
Have an above average week!
