What your Chinese Zodiac would say in an out-of-office email

Each Zodiac sign has its own work style — and it shows, even in out-of-office replies. From meticulous planners to carefree signoffs, Sarah Gideon takes a lighthearted look at what your sign says about how you switch off.

Chinese New Year is a time for celebration, family, and a well-deserved break from work emails. But have you ever wondered what your out-of-office reply says about you?

From the meticulous planner to the free-spirited procrastinator, each Chinese Zodiac sign brings its own personality to how we switch off.

In this article, let's take a lighthearted look at how the twelve signs might craft their out-of-office (OOO) replies — do you resonate with yours?

Adapted in part from chinesenewyear.net and Human Resources Online.

#1 Rat (1924, 1936, 1948, 1960, 1972, 1984, 1996, 2008, 2020)

Rats are cheerful, sociable, and tenacious people, who thrive as part of a group. This intuitive, versatile, and quick-witted Zodiac values security in all areas of life, even in their OOOs.

OOO reply:

Hey there! I’m off for the holidays, but rest assured, I’ll peek at urgent messages if needed — just in case something can’t wait. Everything else is under control!

#2 Ox (1925, 1937, 1949, 1961, 1973, 1985, 1997, 2009, 2021)

Taciturn, upright, patient, unpretentious, and persevering, Ox is one of the least flashy yet one of the most likable of the Zodiacs. Their practical mindset is both their greatest asset and, at times, their detriment.

OOO reply:

I’m on leave and everything has been planned and documented. Things should run smoothly while I’m away — I’ll follow up when I return.

#3 Tiger (1926, 1938, 1950, 1962, 1974, 1986, 1998, 2010, 2022)

Tigers are brash, passionate, and confident leaders with a keen sense of adventure. They are chivalrous and upright and will keep their word at all costs, making them trustworthy despite their apparently dominating charisma.

OOO reply:

I’m out for the holidays, back soon and ready to hit the ground running. Try not to make the office too dull while I’m gone.

#4 Rabbit (1927, 1939, 1951, 1963, 1975, 1987, 1999, 2011, 2023)

Although not the bravest of Zodiacs, the Rabbit is open and optimistic, sensitive and imaginative, and enjoys the comfortable side of life.

OOO reply:

Hello! I’m taking a short break to relax and recharge. I’ll reply to messages once I’m back — hope everything stays peaceful while I’m away.

#5 Dragon (1928, 1940, 1952, 1964, 1976, 1988, 2000, 2012, 2024)

Dragons are powerful, endlessly energetic and full of vitality, goal-oriented yet idealistic and romantic, and a visionary leader. They know exactly who they are and possess the keenest sense of self among the 12 Zodiacs of Chinese astrology.

OOO reply:

I’m away for the holidays, but I’ll be back full of energy and ideas for the year ahead. Keep the fire alive while I’m gone!

#6 Snake (1929, 1941, 1953, 1965, 1977, 1989, 2001, 2013, 2025)

The Snake is a cautious, introverted observer, cool and mysterious in behaviour oweing to their suspicious and insecure nature, yet their armour conceals abundant sensitivity, wisdom, and passion that will surely surprise their few confidants.

OOO reply:

Hi! I’m out of the office and will respond when I return. For anything urgent, please reach out to xxx.

#7 Horse (1930, 1942, 1954, 1966, 1978, 1990, 2002, 2014, 2026)

According to Chinese astrology, Horses are confident, agreeable, and responsible, although they also tend to dislike being reined in by others. They’re fit and intelligent, adoring physical and mental exertion. They’re decisive but also may be easily swayed and/or impatient.

OOO reply:

Hey! I’m on leave and will be back soon. Please don’t schedule anything that slows me down — I’ll catch up at my own pace!

#8 Goat (1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015, 2027)

Goats are gentle and mild, sensitive and content, and may suffer bouts of pessimism when facing adverse circumstances. They’re passive and loyal in love, emotionally dependent on their partner, and prioritise the spiritual over the material.  

OOO reply:

Hello! I’m taking a little R&R. I trust things will go smoothly — but don’t stress too much without me.

#9 Monkey (1932, 1944, 1956, 1968, 1980, 1992, 2004, 2016, 2028)

In Chinese astrology, the Monkey is intelligent, especially in analysing and solving a problem. They excel at abstract thinking, as well as adapting to new people, tasks, and even environments. These master shapeshifters can fit in anytime, anywhere. 

OOO reply:

Hi there! I’m off for the holidays and might not check messages much. If something urgent comes up, improvise — it’ll be fine. But if not, feel free to reach out to xxx. I’ll catch up when I’m back!

#10 Rooster (1933, 1945, 1957, 1969, 1981, 1993, 2005, 2017, 2029)

Those born in the Year of the Rooster are capable and serious organisers, characterised by the ability to quickly come to the right decision. They’re outspoken, especially against any injustice or amoral behaviour they perceive, as well as perfectionist and rule-abiding.

OOO reply:

Hello! I’m out of the office from xxx to xxx. For urgent matters, please contact xxx.

#11 Dog (1934, 1946, 1958, 1970, 1982, 1994, 2006, 2018, 2030)

In Chinese astrology, those born in the Year of the Dog have a keen sense of justice, valor, and loyalty — betrayal is not part of their dictionary. They’re courageous, helpful, humble, and kind-hearted, with a spirit of selfless dedication and an inviolable conduct of morality.

OOO reply:

Hi! I’m taking a break and will respond when I’m back. The team’s got everything handled in the meantime!

#12 Pig (1935, 1947, 1959, 1971, 1983, 1995, 2007, 2019, 2031)

Last of the bunch is the Pig; cool-headed and capable in any situation, detailed-oriented, intelligent, free-spirited, and a little too generous. They’re passionate and enthusiastic, well-liked by friends who’ll be there for them unconditionally because they were there for them.

OOO reply:

Hey! I’m off for the holidays, taking some time to relax. I’ll get back to you when I return — thanks for your patience!

No matter your sign, one thing’s for sure: everyone deserves a proper break. Whether you’re a meticulous Ox, a bold Tiger, or a free-spirited Horse, your Zodiac personality shows up even when you’re away from your desk. Enjoy the days away from office, recharge, and embrace your Zodiac style!