We found this funny story by the BBC about an out-of-office email response that got lost in translation.

The Swansea Council received an email with what they thought was a translated text when they emailed a request for the Welsh version of : “No entry for heavy goods vehicles. Residential site only”. The text in the email that came back was used to create the large bilingual sign.

However, It wasn’t until the sign was installed that Welsh speakers pointed out the error. What the sign really said was: “I am not in the office at the moment. Send any work to be translated”.

And talking of out-of-office emails… Don’t forget to set one up for your business, if you are heading away.

It could be an opportunity to make someone laugh or to grow your business.

Generally, your out-of-office auto response will be the last thing you do as you head away for a break or work trip. And there’s nothing wrong with the standard note that tells your emailers how long you are away and who they can contact in your absence. But consider adding a bit more to help your customer, and grow your business.

• Linking to FAQs - If you regularly get emails about certain issues or topics, use them to form the basis for a page on Frequently Asked Questions or a blog on your website. Provide a link to this page in your out-of-office message and a note about the advice and tips you can offer. You might be providing just the solution for your emailer’s query – which not only helps them, but shows you care about their business.
• Providing guides or promote products and services - Are there new products and services you can highlight in your auto-response? Include a ‘did you know’ or ‘don’t miss out’ reminder.
• Newsletter sign ups - Take the opportunity to allow your emailer to sign up for news from your business with a link to a landing page or ask them to follow you on your social media pages.
• Build your brand - with humour and images, your out-of-office can be more than a formal update that makes someone laugh. And that builds brand loyalty.

Happy Holidays!