Set up an out-of-office / automatic reply properly

Use File > Automatic Replies in Outlook (or Settings > Mail > Automatic replies on the web) rather than a manual rule, because it also stops sending duplicate replies to the same person. Set both an internal and external message, and always set an end date so it doesn't run forever after you're back.

Coach's tip: name a specific backup contact in the message — "contact Jane" gets a faster response than "someone will be in touch."