The year-end is approaching, and most people you know are either on leave or are about to jet off to a memorable vacation.
Few want to be disturbed during this time, and so when someone does send them a work-related message, some people have taken some highly creative approaches to signify that they are out of office (OOO).
Browsing through the OOO messages that are making the rounds on the internet, we have selected some of the funniest ones that we think will surely brighten up your day!
Error Code
Turns out, the 404 code is not just for missing pages and elements. At least, that is what one particular Reddit user decided to lean into as they set up their OOO message on Slack. Though the user’s own experience was borne out of frustration, internet users couldn’t help but applaud the humour that carried a very strong workplace message with it.
New Boss in Life
Becoming a new parent is a new responsibility on its own, but it certainly does not mean you can’t opt for a funny OOO message during this time. One internet user shared on Reddit what they thought was “The best/cutest out of office message I have seen!!!”
The message not only uses humour to soften the blow of unavailability but also shows the employee’s unbridled joy in becoming a new father. Diaper diplomacy for the win indeed!
Firm with a Message
Sometimes, OOO messages can reflect long-standing frustration with off-hours communication. Repeated instances of people reaching out can often make one feel frustrated and cheated out of true vacation time.
So, a firm OOO message can indeed establish boundaries. A sentiment that many on the internet agreed with when one frustrated internet user shared their story with the world.
Some OOO Messages You Might Like
No matter your plans for year-end, there is an OOO message waiting for you to be used. Find one that reflects your plans, your humour and your way of communication.
For a Trip to the Mountains
- I’m out of the office till [date], probably lost somewhere in the mountains, music blaring in the background. Normal productivity will resume next year.
- I’m out of the office till [date], currently negotiating with snow, gloves, and frozen fingers. Replies will resume once my hands can feel the keyboard again.
- I’m currently in the mountains where emails fear to load. Back on [date]—hopefully with photos and better Wi-Fi.
- I’ve temporarily swapped meetings for mountains and deadlines for sunsets. Normal work resumes on [date].
- I’m out of the office till [date], currently living my “Yeh Haseen Wadiyan” moment in the mountains. Will reply once I’m back from the chorus.
For all Music Lovers
- “Kal ho naa ho”… but today is definitely a leave. I’ll be back on [date].
- “Phir se ud chala” — away from my desk and into holiday mode. Back on [date] with replies (and less wanderlust).
- “Is this the real life? Is this just fantasy?” It’s definitely a vacation. I’m OOO till [date] and will reply after.
- “On a dark desert highway…” or maybe a snowy mountain trail. Either way, I’m away from work till [date].
- “Baby, I don’t need dollar bills”—just a few days off. Away till [date], back soon and replying then.
- Taking a short break—Safarnama chal raha hai. Back on [date] with refreshed energy (and replies).
- I’m out of the office till [date], briefly embracing my “Musafir hoon yaaron” era. Responses may be slow, but will follow.
- On leave. Ilahi on, inbox off. Back on [date].
- “All I want for Christmas is…” a few days off. Back on [date].
- “I’m in my chill era” — on leave till [date]. Will reply after.
For You and Your Peace
- Currently unavailable due to me, myself, and I being on a trip. Back soon.
- OOO: I’ve gone to romanticise my life in another city. Will reply after [date].
- Currently offline, emotionally attached to airport snacks.
- OOO while I reboot my brain. Have you tried turning it off and on again?
- Away for mental health. Even chai breaks need a break.
OOO Messages
Humorous turn or not, having OOO messages not only sets a healthy boundary but also makes sure that your team members and seniors know about your lack of availability. Such messages combine workplace transparency with a dash of your personality to make sure no one misses you much, even when you are not there.
