Create a communication plan. Clarify whether you’ll be offline or occasionally checking messages, define emergencies and identify a backup contact. A brief checklist helps clients organize before you go.
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Q: I’m a service professional and I’ve set 'take a vacation' as a New Year’s resolution. How do I let my clients know?
ACE advises: For many professionals — especially in service-heavy roles — the thought of a vacation sparks anxiety. The concern isn’t missed flights or sunscreen; it’s clients — their needs, expectations, and fear that stepping away will cause everything to unravel.
You need and deserve time off. Melissa Olander, founder of On Point Business Consulting Services and an ACE treasurer, says, “Taking time for yourself and/or your family is essential for your well-being. Last summer, a few days in a cabin with zero cell service taught me just how refreshing it can be to truly step away.”
Most clients don’t expect constant availability — they want clarity. Preparing them well protects your vacation and reinforces professionalism. Olander notes, “Setting clear boundaries builds client trust — they see that I plan and prioritize effectively.”
Start with advance notice — two to three weeks is ideal. Mention your time away in signatures, meetings and a short message outlining dates. Early notice allows clients to adjust timelines and raise questions.
Create a communication plan. Clarify whether you’ll be offline or occasionally checking messages, define emergencies and identify a backup contact. A brief checklist helps clients organize before you go.
Laura McDowell, a certified EOS Implementer and ACE vice president, says she typically sets up an out-of-office message and empowers the practice manager to handle anything urgent. “We usually communicate via Google Chat, but when I’m on vacation, she knows to send me a text message if something truly can’t wait, which helps me stay out of my inbox completely. Don’t underestimate the power of delegation … No business is too small for support — even a few hours a week can make it easier to step away when someone you trust is keeping an eye on things.”
My own away message asks clients to send a separate text notifying me if an email is urgent. Based on empirical evidence, most (read: all) are fine with waiting until I’m back.
Before leaving, tie up loose ends and set expectations for your return. Taking time off isn’t unprofessional — it’s sustainable. Boundaries build trust, and you return sharper and more effective than if you tried to “power through” without a break.
Carrie Green Yardley practices law at her own firm, Yardley Esq. PLLC. She recently spent two weeks in Italy, and the world did not end. For a “Vacation Prep Checklist for Busy Businesspeople” contact her at outreach@consultexpertise.com.