How to Write an Out of Office Message (+ 60 examples)

Crafting the perfect out of office message can be a fun and rewarding task, whether you’re aiming for a professional tone or looking to inject a bit of humour into your communication.

With the right approach, you can leave a lasting impression that not only informs but entertains those who reach out to you while you’re away.

So, how do you strike the right balance between informative and engaging?

In this guide, we’ll dive into various styles—from serious and direct to quirky and playful—providing plenty of out of office message examples to inspire you.

The Basics of Out of Office Messages

Why They Matter

Out of office messages might seem like a small detail, but they play a crucial role in professional communication.

First and foremost, they manage expectations. When colleagues or clients reach out, they need to know why there might be a delay in response and when they can expect to hear back. This transparency helps maintain trust and clarity.

Additionally, a well-crafted message can reflect your personality or the culture of your organisation. Whether you choose a formal tone or a light-hearted approach, it sets the tone for your communication style.

Our of office messages are also a great opportunity to redirect inquiries. By providing alternative contact points or resources, you ensure that urgent matters are addressed even in your absence.

Key Components to Include

An effective out of office message should cover several key components to ensure clarity and utility.

By combining these elements, you create a comprehensive and user-friendly out of office message that serves its purpose effectively.

Professional Out of Office Messages

Crafting a professional out of office message requires a straightforward and courteous approach. Here are five examples that maintain professionalism while informing the recipient:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for your email. I’m currently out of the office from [start date] to [end date] and will not have access to my emails. Please contact [colleague’s name] at [email/phone number] for urgent matters.”
2. Example Two:
   “I am away from the office and will return on [return date]. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [alternative contact]. I appreciate your patience.”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello, and thank you for reaching out. I am out of the office until [return date]. Your message is important, and I will respond as soon as possible upon my return.”
4. Example Four:
   “I am currently on leave and unavailable until [return date]. For urgent inquiries, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
5. Example Five:
   “Thank you for your message. I am out of the office and will return on [return date]. During my absence, please contact [backup contact] for assistance.”

Personal Out of Office Messages

For a more personal touch, your out of office message can incorporate a bit of personality while still conveying essential information. Here are five examples that balance warmth and clarity:

1. Example One:
   “Hi there! I’m off on an adventure until [return date]. I’ll get back to you as soon as I can. For urgent matters, please reach out to [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “Hello! I’m currently away from the desk, soaking up some sunshine. I’ll be back on [return date]. Meanwhile, [backup contact] can help you with anything pressing.”
3. Example Three:
   “Thanks for your message! I’m taking a break to recharge and will return on [return date]. If you need immediate assistance, [alternative contact] is ready to help.”
4. Example Four:
   “Greetings! I’m out of the office, likely enjoying some downtime. I’ll respond after [return date]. For urgent matters, please connect with [colleague’s name].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m away on vacation until [return date]. I’ll reply when I’m back. In the meantime, [contact person] is available for urgent concerns.”

Funny Out of Office Messages

Injecting humour into your out of office message can brighten someone’s day while providing the necessary details. Here are five examples to inspire your creative side:

1. Example One:
   “I’m currently out of the office searching for my sanity. I’ll return on [return date]. For urgent matters, contact [colleague’s name], who might have more luck finding theirs.”
2. Example Two:
   “I’m out of the office and on a top-secret mission: rest and relaxation! I’ll report back on [return date]. If urgent, contact [backup contact]. They’ll know what to do if my mission is compromised.”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! I’m currently away, pretending to be an adult. I’ll be back on [return date]. For immediate assistance, reach out to [colleague’s name], who’s mastered adulting.”
4. Example Four:
   “I am currently out of the office, gallivanting across uncharted territory (or just my couch). I’ll return on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [another contact].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m away from the office trying to catch up on sleep. I’ll be back on [return date]. If you need help, please contact [colleague’s name], who’s likely more awake than I am.”

Light Humour Out of Office Messages

A splash of light humour in your out of office message can make it memorable and endearing. Here are five examples to consider:

1. Example One:
   “Hello! I’m out trying to learn the art of doing nothing. Back on [return date]. For anything urgent, please contact [colleague’s name].”
2. Example Two:
   “Thanks for reaching out! I’m currently out of the office, likely getting lost in a good book. I’ll respond after [return date]. For immediate assistance, reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “I’m out of the office and exploring the great indoors. I’ll be back on [return date]. For urgent matters, [colleague’s name] can help you out.”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m currently out of the office, probably watching cat videos. I’ll get back to you after [return date]. For urgent needs, contact [alternative contact].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m away from the office, possibly plotting world domination. I’ll return on [return date]. For immediate help, [colleague’s name] is available.”

Holiday & Vacation Out of Office Messages

When going on holiday or vacation, your out of office message can reflect the joy of the season while keeping things professional. Here are five examples:

1. Example One:
   “Happy holidays! I’m currently out of the office enjoying some festive cheer. I’ll be back on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “Season’s greetings! I’m on vacation until [return date]. I’ll respond to your email once I return. In the meantime, [backup contact] can assist with urgent inquiries.”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! I’m away on a holiday break, returning [return date]. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [alternative contact]. Wishing you a wonderful holiday season!”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m currently out of the office, celebrating the holidays with family. I’ll be back on [return date]. For urgent issues, contact [colleague’s name]. Happy holidays!”
5. Example Five:
   “Joyful greetings! I’m on vacation until [return date]. I won’t be checking emails, but [backup contact] can help with urgent matters. Wishing you a joyous holiday!”

Short-Term Out of Office Messages

For short-term absences, your out of office message should be concise yet informative. Here are five examples that get the point across efficiently:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for your email. I’m out of the office for a short break and will return by [return time]. For urgent issues, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “I’m currently away from my desk and will be back later today. If you need immediate assistance, please reach out to [backup contact]. I’ll respond as soon as possible upon my return.”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! I’m out of the office for a few hours and will return by [return time]. For urgent matters, [alternative contact] is available to help.”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m away from my desk temporarily and will be back by [return time]. Please contact [colleague’s name] for pressing issues during this time.”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m currently out of the office for a short period. I’ll be back at [return time]. For urgent inquiries, please contact [another contact].”

Conference Out of Office Messages

When attending a conference, your out of office message can reflect your professional engagement while keeping contacts informed. Here are five examples to use:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for reaching out. I’m currently attending the [Conference Name] and will return on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “I am out of the office attending a conference until [return date]. I’ll respond to emails upon my return. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! I’m at the [Conference Name] and unavailable until [return date]. Please contact [alternative contact] for urgent inquiries. I’ll get back to you as soon as I return.”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m currently out of the office attending a conference and will return on [return date]. For urgent needs, reach out to [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m away at a conference until [return date]. I won’t be checking emails, but [backup contact] can assist with any urgent matters.”

Emergency Out of Office Messages

In emergencies, your out of office message should be direct and informative, ensuring contacts know how to proceed. Here are five examples:

1. Example One:
   “I am currently out of the office due to an unforeseen emergency. I will reply to your email as soon as possible. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “Due to an emergency, I am unavailable at the moment. I will respond to emails as soon as I can. For immediate assistance, reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello, I’m dealing with an emergency situation and unable to check emails. Please contact [alternative contact] for urgent inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m currently out of the office due to an emergency. I will not be checking emails until further notice. For urgent needs, please reach out to [colleague’s name].”
5. Example Five:
   “Thank you for your message. I am out of the office unexpectedly due to an emergency. For immediate help, please contact [backup contact].”

Training Out of Office Messages

Attending training sessions can necessitate a brief yet professional out of office message. Here are five examples that convey your temporary unavailability:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for your email. I am currently attending training sessions and will return on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “I am out of the office for training until [return date]. I will respond to emails when I return. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! I’m engaged in professional training and unavailable until [return date]. For urgent inquiries, contact [alternative contact] who can assist you.”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m currently out of the office attending training and will be back on [return date]. For urgent needs, please reach out to [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m away from the office for training purposes until [return date]. I won’t be checking emails, but [backup contact] can help with urgent questions.”

After Hours Out of Office Messages

An after-hours out of office message lets contacts know you’re unavailable outside of working hours, yet still committed to addressing their needs. Here are five succinct examples:

1. Example One:
   “Thanks for your email. My office hours are from [start time] to [finish time]. I’ll get back to you during business hours. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “I am currently out of the office after hours. I will respond to your email during the next business day. For immediate assistance, reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “Hello! Thank you for reaching out. I’m currently out of the office and will reply once business hours resume. For urgent inquiries, [alternative contact] is available to help.”
4. Example Four:
   “I am out of the office after hours. I will review your message on the next business day. For urgent needs, please contact [colleague’s name].”
5. Example Five:
   “I’m currently unavailable as it’s outside of office hours. I’ll respond as soon as possible on the next business day. For urgent issues, contact [backup contact].”

Off-Site Out of Office Messages

When working off-site, it’s useful to inform contacts that you’re not in the usual office setting. Here are five examples that communicate this effectively:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for your email. I am currently working off-site and have limited access to my inbox. I will respond by [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “I am out of the office and working remotely until [return date]. I’ll check emails intermittently. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “Hi! I’m currently off-site and will be back on [return date]. Email responses may be delayed. For urgent inquiries, contact [alternative contact].”
4. Example Four:
   “I’m working off-site and will return to the office on [return date]. For urgent needs, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
5. Example Five:
   “Hello, I’m currently off-site with limited access to email. I will respond as soon as I can. For urgent issues, please reach out to [backup contact].”

Maternity or Paternity Out of Office Messages

For maternity or paternity leave, your out of office message should convey your extended absence while providing necessary contact information. Here are five thoughtful examples:

1. Example One:
   “Thank you for your message. I am currently on maternity/paternity leave and will return on [return date]. For urgent matters, please contact [colleague’s name] at [contact information].”
2. Example Two:
   “Hello, I am away on paternity/maternity leave until [return date]. I will not be checking emails during this time. For immediate assistance, please reach out to [backup contact].”
3. Example Three:
   “I’m on maternity/paternity leave, welcoming a new family member. I’ll be back on [return date]. For urgent inquiries, contact [alternative contact]. Thank you for your understanding.”
4. Example Four:
   “I am currently on maternity/paternity leave and will not have access to email until [return date]. Please connect with [colleague’s name] for pressing issues.”
5. Example Five:
   “Thank you for your email. I’m on maternity/paternity leave until [return date]. Please contact [backup contact] for urgent matters during my absence.”

Use aaask to collect team feedback on autopilot – Even when you’re OOO

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