Tired of the same old boring out-of-office messages? Want to add a touch of humor to your email responses while you're away? Funny out-of-office messages are a great way to lighten the mood and show off your sense of humor.

Whether on vacation or just taking a break, these witty messages will leave your colleagues and clients smiling.

In this article, you'll learn more about funny out-of-office messages and provide some hilarious examples to get you started. If you want to make your coworkers laugh or add a bit of personality to your automated responses, these funny out-of-office messages will leave a lasting impression.

  • What Are Out Of Office Messages?
  • Types Of Funny Out Of Office Messages
  • Crafting Your Funny Out-Of-Office Message
  • Final Thoughts
  • What Are Out Of Office Messages?

    Out-of-office (OOO) messages are automated email responses set up by individuals when they are unavailable or unable to access their email for a period of time. These messages inform the sender that the recipient is away from the office, unavailable to respond to emails, or when it might be the holiday season.

    OOO messages can be set up for various reasons, such as vacation time, business trips, limited access to email, or server connection issues.

    They can also be used during holidays and festive or not-festive times, where they may include a touch of humor or a dose of self-deprecating humor to lighten the mood.

    πŸ’‘
    OOO messages are typically set up through email settings and can include information such as the duration of the absence, an alternative contact person's email address, and when the recipient is expected to return.

    Benefits Of Funny Out Of Office Messages

    When it comes to being out of the office, why not add a touch of humor to your out-of-office messages? Funny out-of-office messages entertain your recipients and leave a lasting impression.

    By infusing a sense of humor and personal touch into your emails, you can make them more memorable and engaging.

    Using funny messages in your out-of-office replies can create a positive company culture. It shows that your workplace embraces humor and encourages a friendly and relaxed atmosphere.

    πŸ“Œ
    This can have a trickle-down effect on your team, fostering a more joyful and collaborative environment.

    Furthermore, funny out-of-office messages can improve communication during times of absence. Using humor, you can make your emails stand out in a crowded inbox.

    This increases the likelihood of your recipients reading and remembering your message, increasing email volume and response rates.

    Additionally, when clients or colleagues receive humorous office email messages, the office response is more likely to remember you positively. This can result in stronger relationships and improved rapport in the future.

    @oilshore Here at Oilshore we value honesty πŸ™ˆ #corporatetiktok #genzworker #workhumour #officelife ♬ Spongebob Tomfoolery - Dante9k Remix - David Snell

    Types Of Funny Out Of Office Messages

    There are many options, from a touch of self-deprecating humor to clever pop culture references. Some of the most popular and effective types of funny out-of-office messages can leave a lasting impression and bring a smile to your recipients' faces.

    • The Clever Wordplay - These messages use puns, wordplay, and clever language to add a humorous twist to your out-of-office reply. For example, you could say, "I'm currently out of the office, embracing the 'paws'itive vibes at my favorite vacation spot. If you need immediate assistance, don't fret, my pawsome colleague will lend you a helping paw!"
    • The Pop Culture Reference - You can create a funny and relatable out-of-office message by incorporating references to popular movies, TV shows, or celebrities. For instance, you could say, "I'm off to a galaxy far, far away for a few days. If you need assistance, may the force be with you as you reach out to my helpful coworker, Luke Skyworker!"
    • The Vacation Theme - Embrace the vacation vibe by creating out-of-office messages that mimic the spirit of your time off. You can use phrases like, "I'm enjoying some much-needed sun and sand. While I soak up the vitamin D, my colleague will be your SPF (Stellar Personal Facilitator) to assist you promptly."
    • The Unexpected Surprise - Surprise your email contacts with an unexpected and amusing out-of-office reply. For example, you could say, "I'm taking a break from the digital world and embracing medieval life as a knight. If you have an urgent matter, send a raven to my trusted squire, who will ensure your message reaches the castle."
    πŸ“Œ
    Remember to keep your funny, out-of-office messages professional and respectful while reflecting your genuine personality and company culture. Using these messages, you can amp up the amusement factor and make a lasting impression on your email recipients, even when you're not physically present.

    Clever Wordplay

    Clever wordplay can be a fun and creative way to add humor to your out-of-office messages. You can entertain your email contacts by using puns, double entendres, and clever language while still conveying important information.

    Clever wordplay adds a touch of humor and showcases your creativity and wit.

    There are several ways to incorporate clever wordplay in funny, out-of-office messages. You can play with words and phrases related to your absence or the reason for your time off.

    For example, if you're on a beach vacation, you could say, "I'm currently on 'island time' sipping coconuts, so I won't be able to respond to your email 'shore'ly. Don't 'wave' goodbye, though - my colleague will 'beach' you to it!"

    Another way to use clever wordplay is by incorporating puns. These play-on-words can add a humorous twist to your message. For instance, if you're out for a conference, you could say, "I'm away exploring the 'wonders' of a business trip. While I'm 'conferencing' my way to success, feel free to reach out to my 'meeting' of capable coworkers."

    Here are a few more examples of clever wordplay that can be used in out-of-office messages:

    • "I'm currently out of the office, 'knot'ting my emails. But fear not, my colleague will 'untangle' any issues you may have!"
    • "I'm taking a 'byte' out of my workload and indulging in some much-needed time off. For technical assistance, 'byte' into the IT department!"
    • "I'm on a 'bookcation,' diving into literary adventures. If you need assistance, my 'page-turning' colleague will be more than happy to help!"
    πŸ“Œ
    Incorporating clever wordplay in your out-of-office messages entertains your recipients and showcases your sense of humor and creativity. It adds a playful and light-hearted touch to your automatic replies, leaving a lasting impression on your email contacts.
    Photo by Jack Goren on Unsplash

    Sarcastic Humor

    Sarcastic humor in out-of-office messages can be a powerful tool for building rapport with your audience. Using sarcasm, you create a light-hearted and playful tone that resonates well with recipients.

    This type of humor shows that you don't take yourself too seriously and can help establish a more relaxed and friendly relationship with your colleagues or clients.

    In a relaxed or modern workplace, where formalities are less strict, sarcastic humor can be highly effective. It adds a personal touch to your message, making it more memorable and enjoyable for the reader.

    πŸ“Œ
    The use of wit and sarcasm demonstrates your personality and can help to humanize the often mundane task of sending out-of-office emails.

    However, it's important to consider the context and audience when using sarcastic humor. This type of humor may not be as well-received in more traditional corporate environments, where professionalism and formality are emphasized. Some individuals may interpret sarcasm as unprofessional or disrespectful.

    It's crucial to gauge your workplace culture and relationship with your recipients before using sarcastic humor in your out-of-office messages.

    Here are some examples of sarcastic out-of-office messages:

    • The Digital Escape Artist: "Congratulations! You've reached my out-of-office response. I'm on a digital detox, pretending I don't know what emails are. I'll get back to you when I remember."
    • The Time Traveler"Hello! I've traveled to the past and won't be back until the future. If you see me in the present, please remind me to reply to your email."
    • The Treasure Hunter is currently searching for the lost city of Atlantis. If found, I might extend my vacation. If not, I'll begrudgingly return to my desk on [date]."

    Emoji Usage

    Emojis have become a vibrant part of our digital communication, adding context and emotions to our messages. They can also be a fantastic tool for injecting humor into your out-of-office messages.

    Here's how to use emojis to catch attention and add humor to your messages.

    • Catch Attention: Emojis are eye-catching elements that instantly draw the reader's attention. Including a quirky emoji at the beginning of your message, like a winking face or a thumbs up, can make your out-of-office email stand out in a crowded inbox.
    • Add Humor: Emojis have the power to convey lightheartedness and playfulness, making them perfect for adding humor to your messages. For example, you could use a laughing face emoji to draw attention to the fact that you're on a beach during your vacation or a party popper emoji to emphasize your excitement for the holidays.

    Examples of funny out-of-office messages incorporating Emojis:

    • "🌴 Out of the office, sipping margaritas and soaking up the sun! If you need anything, well, you're out of luck! Catch you on the flip side! πŸ–οΈ"
    • "🍹 On a much-needed vacation! My email access is as limited as my ability to resist eating three scoops of ice cream. But don't worry, I'll be back before you can say 'Unlimited PTO!' πŸ‘™"
    • "πŸŽ‰ Office closed for festive shenanigans! I'm off to spread holiday cheer, so if you need immediate assistance, try summoning a Christmas elf or a tech-savvy reindeer. Happy holidays! πŸŽ„"
    Remember to use emojis in moderation, tailoring them to your audience and maintaining professionalism.

    Themed Messages

    Looking to add a touch of humor and creativity to your out-of-office messages? Why not try incorporating themed messages into your automatic replies? Themed messages can be fun and memorable to let your contacts know you're out of the office.

    Here are a few examples to inspire you:

    Movie References

    "🎬 Sorry, I can't come to the phone right now. I'm off on an epic adventure, chasing my own version of the Holy Grail. If you need assistance, try contacting Indiana Jones - he's great at finding lost treasures. πŸ—ΊοΈ"

    Vacation Destinations

    "🌍 Currently exploring the vibrant landscapes of the world! If you need anything, I suggest contacting a travel agent who can help you navigate the world like a pro. Bon voyage! ✈️"

    Holiday-Themed Messages

    "πŸŽƒ Out of the office, on a quest to solve the age-old question: Is it pumpkin spice or pumpkin everything? Feel free to share your favorite pumpkin-inspired recipe in my absence, and I'll be sure to try it when I return. Pumpkin regards! 🍁"

    Photo by Samuel Regan-Asante on Unsplash

    Self-Deprecating Humor

    Self-deprecating humor in funny, out-of-office messages adds a unique and personal touch to the mundane task of setting an auto-reply. It involves making light-hearted jokes or poking fun at oneself while conveying the unavailability of email responses.

    This humor style can help create a sense of camaraderie and relatability with colleagues and clients.

    While maintaining professionalism, self-deprecating humor allows individuals to showcase their personality and engage with recipients more personally. It humanizes the sender and breaks the ice, making the message stand out in generic autoresponder emails.

    To effectively use self-deprecating humor, here are a few examples:

    • The Forgetful One"I'm currently out of the office. And if history is any indication, I've probably forgotten my laptop charger. I'll be back once I've found it."
    • The "Tech-Savvy" Worker"I'm away from the office and trying to unplug. If I haven't replied, it's likely because I can't figure out how to turn my out-of-office notifications off."
    • The Over-Planner"I'm out of the office and, true to form, I've probably overpacked for a three-day trip. I'll be back once I've sorted through my six pairs of shoes."

    Punny Jokes

    Punny jokes are a clever and witty way to add humor to your out-of-office messages. These types of jokes rely on wordplay and clever twists to create a lighthearted and entertaining message for your recipients.

    Here are a few types of punny jokes that you can use in your funny out-of-office messages:

    • Double entendres: These jokes play on words with multiple meanings, resulting in a humorous and often unexpected twist. For example, you could say, "I'll be out of the office, trying to make some doughnut-ions. Please bear with me!"
    • Homonyms: These jokes use words that sound the same but have different meanings, creating a humorous play on words. For instance, you could write, "I'm out of the office because I caribou-t to a remote location. I'll be back rein-deer-ged soon!"
    • Creative job-related wordplay: Incorporating puns related to your profession or industry can add a touch of humor while also showcasing your expertise. For example, if you're a dentist, you could say, "I'm taking a break to fill my days with adventures and cavities. Don't worry, I'll be flossing back in no time!"
    Photo by Kat Kelley on Unsplash

    Pop Culture References

    Incorporating pop culture references into your funny out-of-office messages is a great way to add humor and make your message more relatable. By referencing popular movies and TV shows, you can connect with your readers and bring a smile to their faces.

    Here are a few ways to do it:

    • Movie Quotes: Include a famous quote from a beloved film and put a spin on it to fit your out-of-office message. For example, "In the words of Samuel L. Jackson, 'I've had it with these emails on this server connection! I'm taking a vacation.' I'll be back in full force soon!"
    • Favorite Films: Mentioning your favorite movies can also make for a fun out-of-office message. For instance, if you're a fan of Back to the Future, you could say, "Doc Brown here! I'm off on a time-traveling adventure to recharge my flux capacitor. Your emails will remain safe in the DeLorean until I return!"
    • TV Shows: Draw inspiration from popular TV shows and create a witty reference. If you enjoy The Office, you could write, "Dunder Mifflin is closed for business while I embark on an epic Schrute-style beet farming expedition. Requests will be handled upon my return, just like Dwight handles his bobbleheads!"
    πŸ“Œ
    Remember to choose accessible references that most people can understand and appreciate. 

    Crafting Your Funny Out-Of-Office Message

    A funny, out-of-office message can make your absence more lighthearted and enjoyable for those trying to reach you. Here are a few ideas to help you craft your hilarious out-of-office message.

    Brainstorming Ideas for Your Message

    Brainstorming ideas can be a great way to get started when crafting a funny, out-of-office message. Here are some options and inspirations to help you come up with creative and humorous content for your message:

    • Punny Puns: Incorporate wordplay and puns related to your absence or vacation plans. For example, "I'm sailing away on a cruise, so I'm all at sea when it comes to emails!"
    • Office Shenanigans: Playfully joke about your coworkers or the typical office environment. For instance, "I've temporarily escaped the land of meetings and deadlines. Don't worry; the copier still gets jammed without me!"
    • Pop Culture References: Draw inspiration from movies, TV shows, or popular trends. You could say, "I've turned off my email notification to embrace 'Netflix and chill' mode. Catch you on the binge side!"
    • Travel Tales: If you're going on a trip, relate your message to your destination or travel plans. Try something like, "I'll be climbing mountains and exploring ancient cities, but my inbox will stay unexplored until my return."

    Choosing the Right Tone for Your Message

    When crafting a funny, out-of-office message, it's important to strike the right tone that resonates with your audience while conveying the necessary information. However, it's essential to consider your audience and the purpose of the email.

    First and foremost, understand your audience. Consider their preferences, sense of humor, and professional context. What may be funny within your team might not be appropriate if the message goes to clients or senior management.

    Tailor your humor accordingly to ensure it lands nicely and doesn't offend or confuse.

    While being funny is great, don't forget the main purpose of your out-of-office message: conveying important information. Include details such as your return date, alternative contacts, and any time-sensitive matters. Balancing humor with relevant information ensures that your message remains entertaining and informative.

    πŸ“Œ
    Please Note: The key is to create a funny out-of-office message that elicits a chuckle while still serving its purpose. Take the time to think about the tone you want to set, and let your creative side shine through. 

    Selecting Appropriate Humor For Your Message Audience

    When crafting a funny out-of-office message, selecting the appropriate humor is crucial to resonate with your specific audience.

    Consider who will be receiving your message. Is it going to your team, clients, or senior management? What may be funny within your team might not be appropriate for clients or senior management.

    Understanding your audience ensures your message lands nicely and avoids potential offense or confusion.

    While humor adds a lighthearted touch to your message, it's important not to lose sight of the main purpose: conveying important information. Ensure to include all relevant details, such as your return date, alternative contacts, and any time-sensitive matters.

    Balancing humor with the necessary information ensures your message remains entertaining and informative, increasing audience engagement.
    Photo by Per LΓΆΓΆv on Unsplash

    Final Thoughts

    Humor in out-of-office messages can be a game-changer in leaving a memorable impression and showcasing your personality. It adds a touch of fun to what can be a mundane and routine aspect of email communication.

    Various types of funny, out-of-office messages can be employed. Clever wordplay, such as puns or witty one-liners, can elicit a chuckle from readers. Sarcastic humor can add a playful twist to the message, while themed messages around holidays or popular culture references can add a festive or light-hearted vibe.

    Lastly, self-deprecating humor can show humility and relatability, making you more approachable.

    However, it's crucial to craft personalized and audience-appropriate funny out-of-office messages. What might be hilarious to you might not resonate with everyone. Keep it professional but lighthearted, and ensure that your humor aligns with the overall tone of the message.

    Funny Out-Of-Office Messages FAQ's

    How do you email a vague sick day?

    Subject: Working Remotely Today Due to Health Concerns

    Hi [Your Boss's Name],

    I woke up today not feeling my best, and I believe it's in the team's best interest that I avoid the office to prevent any potential spread of illness. However, I can still continue working on my current projects from home and will be available through email and Slack for any team queries.

    Thank you for understanding.

    Best, [Your Name]

    How do you say I am not coming to work today?

    Subject: Unexpected Absence Today

    Hello [Boss's Name],

    An unforeseen situation has arisen that requires my immediate attention, so I won't be able to come to work today. I've already coordinated with [so-and-so] to ensure my responsibilities are covered. I apologize for the short notice and any disruption this might cause. I'll be back and ready to work tomorrow.

    Thank you for understanding.

    Best regards, [Your Name]

    What are the best out-of-office message samples?

    Simple & Professional

    Subject: Out of Office

    Thank you for your email. I am out of the office and will return on [date]. During this period, I will have limited access to my email. I will address your message upon my return.

    Best regards, [Your Name]

    Vacation Mode

    Subject: Out of Office: Vacation

    Hello,

    I'm currently on vacation until [date]. I won't check my emails regularly, but will respond to your message as soon as I return. If urgent, please contact [Alternative Contact Name] at [Alternative Contact Email/Phone].

    Warm regards, [Your Name]

    Conference or Training

    Subject: Out of Office: [Conference/Training Name]

    Greetings,

    I'm attending the [Conference/Training Name] and will be out of the office until [date]. I'll have limited access to my email, but I will get back to you as soon as possible.

    For immediate assistance, please reach out to [Alternative Contact Name].

    Thank you for understanding, [Your Name]

    Personal Leave

    Subject: Out of Office

    Hello,

    Thank you for reaching out. I'm away for personal reasons and will be back on [date]. I appreciate your patience and will respond to your email upon my return.

    Kind regards, [Your Name]

    How do you say you are out of the office unexpectedly?

    Hello,

    I'm currently away from the office because of [reason]. For urgent matters, please get in touch with [name of alternative contact] at [contact information]. I'll address your message as soon as I'm back.

    Best regards, [Your Name]

    How do you say you will be out of the office in Outlook?

    1. Log in and select the Settings Icon at the page's top right corner. Next, choose "Automatic replies."

    2. Within the "Automatic Replies" section, activate the "Send automatic replies" option.

    3. Compose the message you'd like to be sent to those who email you during your absence. Once done, click "OK" at the top to save your preferences.