Out of Office Message Generator
Create the perfect out of office auto-reply in seconds. Get email messages, Slack/Teams status updates, and setup instructions for Outlook & Gmail — all free.
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Join the WaitlistFrequently Asked Questions
What is an out of office message?+
An out of office (OOO) message is an automatic email reply that lets people know you're unavailable. It typically includes when you'll return, who to contact for urgent matters, and sets expectations for response times. Most email platforms like Outlook and Gmail have built-in auto-reply features.
What should I include in my out of office message?+
A good out of office message should include: the dates you'll be away, your expected return date, an alternate contact for urgent matters (if applicable), and a brief reason for your absence. Keep it concise — people just need to know when they'll hear back.
How long should an out of office message be?+
Keep it between 3-5 sentences. Your auto-reply should be brief and informative. Include only essential details: your absence dates, return date, alternate contact, and a polite closing. Avoid lengthy explanations about why you're away.
Should I use a different message for internal vs. external contacts?+
Yes! Many email platforms (especially Outlook/Exchange) let you set different messages for colleagues vs. external contacts. Internal messages can be more casual and include specific team contacts, while external messages should be more professional and include general contact information.
What tone should I use for my out of office message?+
Match your company culture and audience. Professional tone works best for client-facing roles, legal, finance, and healthcare. Friendly works for most businesses. Casual is fine for creative agencies, startups, and internal-only messages. Our generator lets you choose your preferred tone.
How do I set up an auto-reply in Gmail?+
In Gmail, go to Settings (gear icon) → See all settings → scroll to 'Vacation responder' at the bottom of the General tab → turn it on → set your dates and message → Save Changes. Gmail will automatically send your reply to anyone who emails you during that period.
How do I set up an auto-reply in Outlook?+
In Outlook desktop, go to File → Automatic Replies (Out of Office) → select 'Send automatic replies' → set your dates and message → click OK. In Outlook Web/365, go to Settings → Mail → Automatic replies → turn on and configure your message.
Should I set a Slack/Teams status when I'm out of office?+
Absolutely. Setting your status on messaging platforms like Slack or Microsoft Teams is just as important as your email auto-reply. It prevents colleagues from waiting for responses. Use a short status message with your return date and set your status to 'Away' or 'Do Not Disturb'.