To joke or not to joke?: How to write a good out-of-office message

As the holiday season reaches its peak, many people are setting up out-of-office messages on their emails. A well-crafted message can make a good impression, while a poorly written one can come across as unprofessional. The key is to strike the right balance between being friendly and being clear about your availability.

A good out-of-office message should include essential information such as the dates you'll be away, an alternative contact for urgent matters, and a brief explanation of why you're unavailable. It's also a chance to add some personality to your message, but be cautious not to overdo it. A witty remark or a lighthearted comment can be engaging, but it may not be suitable for all audiences or industries.

What to watch next is how companies and individuals adapt their out-of-office messages to reflect their brand and tone. With more people working remotely or taking extended breaks, the out-of-office message has become an essential tool for communication. As we head into the new year, it's worth considering how to make the most of this often-overlooked aspect of professional communication.

Originally reported by bbc.co.uk. MyNews adds analysis for general news readers.