By Amber Alarid, JVA Consulting

Will you be out of the office during the holidays? If so, here are some tips to keep in mind to ensure that your holiday vacation is stress free for you, your coworkers and clients.

Set your away email and voicemail message

Do not leave clients and coworkers guessing as to why you are not responding to their messages. Form a detailed automatic reply message letting your contacts know when you will be back and whom they can contact for immediate assistance in your absence. Verify that your contact information is available to your officemates in case someone does need immediate assistance that those in the office cannot provide.

Clarify organizational standards on availability

Is it preferred or required that team members check email and voicemail while out? Do team members typically leave computers behind? Clarify any rules and expectations before leaving on vacation.

Follow appropriate news sources

Being gone for an extended period of time doesn’t mean you have to isolate yourself from trends and news that affect your sector or organization. Make it a point to read newsletters, blogs and/or nonprofit news sources periodically throughout the holiday. Coming back from vacation aware of current events in the sector and the world will show dedication.

Keep cards and marketing materials handy

Traveling home for the holidays can provide unexpected opportunities to network and advocate on behalf of your organization. Don’t get caught empty handed when a family friend or new acquaintance on the plane asks for your card or more information about your nonprofit.

How are you preparing for the holidays around the office? Whether you are working or on vacation, share your tips for a productive and festive holiday in the comments section.