How to Keep Your Out‑of‑Office Email Professional—and Not Too Personal

When you’re out of the office, an automated reply can be a powerful tool to manage expectations and protect your brand. But if you slip into the territory of oversharing, you risk turning a simple courtesy into a PR blunder. Money Moves with Jill Schlesinger recently highlighted the fine line between helpful and overly personal out‑of‑office messages, and offered guidance on how to keep your communication professional.

Why Oversharing Matters

Out‑of‑office messages are often the first point of contact for clients, partners, and colleagues. A well‑crafted reply can reinforce your professionalism, while a message that spills personal details can undermine credibility. According to Jill Schlesinger, the key is to provide essential information—such as alternative contacts and expected response times—without venturing into the realm of TMI (too much information).

What Makes a Message Too Personal?

Common pitfalls include sharing family drama, personal health issues, or detailed vacation itineraries. Even seemingly innocuous details, like the exact dates of a trip or the name of a local restaurant, can feel intrusive to recipients who expect a concise, business‑focused note.

Best Practices for a Professional Reply

• Keep it brief. A single paragraph that states your absence dates and who to contact is usually sufficient.
• Offer alternatives. Provide a colleague’s email or a phone number for urgent matters.
• Maintain tone. Use a courteous, neutral tone that reflects your company’s brand voice.
• Avoid personal anecdotes. Stick to facts that directly impact business communication.

When to Share a Little More

There are scenarios where a touch of personality can humanize your brand—such as a brief mention of a holiday greeting or a note about a company event. The trick is to keep it short, relevant, and aligned with your professional image.

Real‑World Example

In the recent episode of Money Moves, Jill Schlesinger discussed how Brittany’s family business left her and her husband financially strained. While the show explored whether selling their house was a viable solution, it also highlighted how Brittany’s out‑of‑office email could have been improved by focusing on key business details rather than personal financial woes.

By following these guidelines, you can ensure that your out‑of‑office replies serve their purpose—managing expectations—without compromising your professional reputation.

For more insights on business communication and personal branding, watch the full episode on CBS News: Stop Oversharing in Your Out‑of‑Office Email.

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