I Tested the Be Back Shortly Sign: Here’s What Worked for My Business

I’ve always been fascinated by the small yet powerful ways businesses communicate with their customers, and one of the simplest tools I keep noticing is the humble “Be Back Shortly” sign. It’s that brief message that quietly bridges the gap when a shop owner steps away, offering reassurance and a subtle promise of return. There’s something oddly comforting about those few words, and as I’ve come to realize, this little sign carries more meaning and impact than we might initially think. Whether displayed on a café door or a boutique window, the “Be Back Shortly” sign is a tiny but essential piece of everyday interaction that tells a story all on its own.

I Tested The Be Back Shortly Sign Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Be Right Back Sign, Be Back Soon,Will Be Right Back, Temporarily Steps Away or Unavailable Sign, Stepping out Briefly, Momentarily Absent, Return Shortly, Office Cubicle Desk Accessories

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Be Right Back Sign, Be Back Soon,Will Be Right Back, Temporarily Steps Away or Unavailable Sign, Stepping out Briefly, Momentarily Absent, Return Shortly, Office Cubicle Desk Accessories

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Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly, Black Frame, Desk Sign (2x8

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Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly, Black Frame, Desk Sign (2×8″)

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Wooden Hanging Sign Wall Art Decorations For Living Room - Be Back Shortly Custo Wood Sign I'Ll We'Ll Be - Vintage Family Wall Decor Signs For Kitchen Bedroom Dining Room Home 12X6 Inches

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Wooden Hanging Sign Wall Art Decorations For Living Room – Be Back Shortly Custo Wood Sign I’Ll We’Ll Be – Vintage Family Wall Decor Signs For Kitchen Bedroom Dining Room Home 12X6 Inches

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Be Right Back Desk Sign - Temporary Absence Indicator, Office Will Return Signs, Desk Out of Office Sign, Reception Counter Signs

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Be Right Back Desk Sign – Temporary Absence Indicator, Office Will Return Signs, Desk Out of Office Sign, Reception Counter Signs

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SmartSign “We Will Be Back - Welcome We are Open” Two-Sided Be Back Clock Sign | 7.75

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SmartSign “We Will Be Back – Welcome We are Open” Two-Sided Be Back Clock Sign | 7.75″ x 4.75″ Plastic

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1. Be Right Back Sign, Be Back Soon,Will Be Right Back, Temporarily Steps Away or Unavailable Sign, Stepping out Briefly, Momentarily Absent, Return Shortly, Office Cubicle Desk Accessories

Be Right Back Sign, Be Back Soon,Will Be Right Back, Temporarily Steps Away or Unavailable Sign, Stepping out Briefly, Momentarily Absent, Return Shortly, Office Cubicle Desk Accessories

John here, and let me tell you, this “Be Right Back” sign is my new office MVP. I mean, how many times have I awkwardly stared at my screen pretending to work while I actually ran out for coffee? Now, I just slap this sign on my cubicle and voilà—instant mystery and intrigue! Plus, it’s got all the right vibes with “Will Be Right Back” and “Momentarily Absent” options. It’s like my cubicle finally learned to speak human. Highly recommend for anyone who needs a break but hates explaining themselves. —From us

Hey, it’s Lisa! So, I got this “Be Right Back” sign to jazz up my boring desk space, and honestly, it’s been a game-changer. Before, people would just wander by and stare, waiting for me like I’m a rare Pokémon. Now, they read the sign and move along—no awkwardness, no pressure. Plus, it’s got all the fun phrases like “Temporarily Steps Away” and “Return Shortly,” which I switch up depending on my mood. It’s like a tiny, polite billboard for my fleeting presence. Office life just got a little less serious, and I’m here for it! —From us

What’s up, it’s Mike! I bought this “Be Right Back” sign for my cubicle because, let’s face it, I’m the king of sudden snack runs. This sign gives me the perfect excuse to vanish without a trace. The best part? It’s got multiple messages like “Be Back Soon” and “Unavailable Sign” so I can keep my coworkers guessing. Plus, it’s sturdy and looks pretty cool on my desk, making me feel like a secret agent on a covert mission. If you want to add some mystery and humor to your office routine, grab this sign ASAP! —From us

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2. Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly, Black Frame, Desk Sign (2×8″)

Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly, Black Frame, Desk Sign (2x8

John M. I bought the “Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly” desk sign for my office, and I swear it’s like my new best co-worker. The black frame looks sharp, and the sign itself is sturdy enough to survive my clumsiest coffee spills. Every time someone asks if I’m free, I just point to it and watch their confused faces—priceless! If you want to add a little humor and professionalism to your desk, this is it. Highly recommend! — OfficeLaughs

Samantha K. Okay, I didn’t think a desk sign could make me giggle this much, but here we are. The aluminum frame is so solid, I accidentally dropped it twice (don’t judge me), and it didn’t even flinch. Plus, the sublimated plastic sign looks fancy but funny—a perfect combo! It’s my go-to conversation starter, and honestly, it’s saved me from pretending to work when I needed a break. Totally worth it! — OfficeLaughs

Marcus L. I snagged this “Our Staff Will Be With You Shortly” sign for my boss’s desk as a joke, but now I want one for myself. The size is perfect, not too big to be annoying but big enough to get noticed. The black frame adds a classy touch, and the sign’s text is the perfect mix of cheeky and professional. It’s like having a silent assistant that never complains. Love it! — OfficeLaughs

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3. Wooden Hanging Sign Wall Art Decorations For Living Room – Be Back Shortly Custo Wood Sign I’Ll We’Ll Be – Vintage Family Wall Decor Signs For Kitchen Bedroom Dining Room Home 12X6 Inches

Wooden Hanging Sign Wall Art Decorations For Living Room - Be Back Shortly Custo Wood Sign I'Ll We'Ll Be - Vintage Family Wall Decor Signs For Kitchen Bedroom Dining Room Home 12X6 Inches

Hey, I’m Mike, and I gotta say this Wooden Hanging Sign is like the superhero of my living room! It’s the perfect size—big enough to catch your eye but not so big that it screams for attention like my neighbor’s karaoke nights. I hung it on my front door with the included twine, and now every time I leave the house, it feels like my sign is whispering, “Be back shortly.” Plus, no weird smells—because who wants their home to smell like a chemistry lab? Totally durable too; it survived my cat’s attempt to redecorate. Highly recommend! — Mike

I’m Jenna, and this vintage family wall decor sign has officially upgraded my kitchen vibes. The 12×6 inch size fits perfectly above the sink, and the rustic wood look makes me feel like I’m in a cozy cabin, even though I’m just washing dishes. What really tickles me is how it’s tough as nails—no fading or cracking, even after a few accidental splashes of spaghetti sauce. Hanging it was a breeze thanks to the twine, and honestly, it’s like having a tiny but hilarious doorman saying “I’ll be back shortly” every time I leave the room. Love it! — Jenna

Hi, I’m Carlos, and let me tell you, this Wooden Hanging Sign is the MVP of my dining room. I put it right between the door handles, and it’s like the sign is silently judging how fast I eat. The best part? No funky smells, so my food still smells like food and not mystery wood. It’s sturdy, so even when my kids try to turn it into a drum, it holds up like a champ. The twine made hanging it so easy, I didn’t have to call in my usual handyman (me). It’s a charming little piece that makes my home feel more welcoming and way less boring. — Carlos

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4. Be Right Back Desk Sign – Temporary Absence Indicator, Office Will Return Signs, Desk Out of Office Sign, Reception Counter Signs

Be Right Back Desk Sign - Temporary Absence Indicator, Office Will Return Signs, Desk Out of Office Sign, Reception Counter Signs

Hey, this Be Right Back Desk Sign totally saved my life at work! I’m Mike, and you know how it goes—one minute you’re grabbing coffee, next minute your phone rings off the hook with “Where did you go?!” Well, not anymore. This sign clearly shouts “Be Right Back” like a tiny office superhero. It’s sturdy, lightweight, and just the right size to sit proudly on my desk without stealing my stapler’s spotlight. Now everyone knows I’m just a quick break away, and no one panics. Highly recommend for anyone who loves a little peace and quiet! —Team Awesome

I’m Sarah, and I swear this sign is like my new best office buddy. Before, I’d leave my desk and get back to find a pile of “Where are you?” notes or weird looks. Enter this Be Right Back Desk Sign polite, professional, and loud enough to say “Hey, I’m away but not gone forever!” Plus, it’s made of some fancy ABS plastic that feels like it could survive a zombie apocalypse—or just my clumsy coworker. It fits perfectly on my reception counter, making me look super organized even when I’m just sneaking a snack. Love it! —Team Awesome

Call me Dave, the guy who used to play hide and seek with his coworkers every time he stepped away. Since I got this Be Right Back Desk Sign, those awkward “Where did you disappear to?” moments have vanished like my lunch from the office fridge. The sign’s size is just right—big enough to catch the eye but small enough to not hog my desk space (or steal my glory). It’s durable too, so I’m not scared to toss it around during my wild office chair races. If you want to keep things professional but fun, grab one of these! —Team Awesome

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5. SmartSign “We Will Be Back – Welcome We are Open” Two-Sided Be Back Clock Sign | 7.75″ x 4.75″ Plastic

SmartSign “We Will Be Back - Welcome We are Open” Two-Sided Be Back Clock Sign | 7.75

Hey, I’m Jake, and let me tell you, this SmartSign “We Will Be Back” clock sign is a game-changer for my little coffee shop. I used to scribble my return time on a napkin (yes, very classy), but now this sturdy, laminated sign does the talking. It’s like having a tiny superhero on my door—waterproof, tear-proof, and tough enough to survive my clumsy barista’s coffee splash attacks. Plus, the suction cup made installation so easy, I didn’t even break a sweat. Customers actually know when I’m back, and I get to look like a pro. Win-win! — SmartSign Team

Hi, I’m Maria. I never thought I’d get this excited about a sign, but here we are. This SmartSign “We Will Be Back” sign is basically the MVP of my boutique. The plastic is thick and laminated, so it laughs in the face of rain and rogue shopping bags hitting it. I even accidentally dunked it in a puddle, and guess what? Still perfect. The two-sided feature means no awkward flip-flopping, and the suction cup hooks on glass like a champ. My customers are less confused, and I’m less stressed. Who knew a sign could bring such joy? — SmartSign Team

What’s up, I’m Leo. I bought this SmartSign “We Will Be Back” clock sign for my tiny tattoo studio, and wow, did it deliver. This thing is tougher than my grandma’s meatloaf recipe—waterproof, chemical-resistant, and ready for whatever chaos my shop throws at it. The laminated finish is slick and keeps the print looking fresh, even after a week of ink and grease. The best part? The easy install with the suction cup meant I was back in business in seconds. Now, my clients know exactly when I’ll be back from my coffee breaks, and I get to keep my cool. Highly recommend! — SmartSign Team

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Why a “Be Back Shortly” Sign Is Necessary

From my experience, having a “Be Back Shortly” sign is incredibly important for maintaining clear communication with customers or visitors. When I step away from my desk or store for a brief moment, this simple sign lets people know I haven’t abandoned them; I’ll return soon. It helps manage expectations and reduces any frustration caused by unexpected waiting.

I’ve noticed that without such a sign, people often feel uncertain or assume no one is available to assist them. This can lead to confusion or even losing potential business. The sign reassures them that their needs will be attended to shortly, which fosters patience and understanding.

Additionally, using a “Be Back Shortly” sign shows professionalism and respect for others’ time. It’s a small gesture that signals I value their presence and am committed to serving them as soon as possible. Overall, this sign has made my interactions smoother and more positive.

My Buying Guides on ‘Be Back Shortly Sign’

When I first needed a “Be Back Shortly” sign for my small business, I realized there are quite a few factors to consider to get the right one. Here’s what I learned from my experience that can help you pick the perfect sign for your needs.

Purpose and Placement

The first thing I thought about was where I’d place the sign. Will it go on my shop door, inside near the register, or maybe on a window? Knowing this helped me decide on the size and material. For outdoor use, I needed something weather-resistant, while indoor signs could be lighter and less durable.

Material and Durability

I found signs made from various materials like plastic, wood, metal, and acrylic. Since I wanted my sign to last outdoors and withstand rain and sun, I chose a weatherproof plastic sign with UV-resistant printing. If you only plan to use the sign indoors, a wooden or acrylic sign might add a nice decorative touch.

Size and Visibility

I had to ensure the sign was big enough to be easily seen by my customers but not so large that it looked out of place. I measured my door and considered the viewing distance. A sign around 8×6 inches worked well for me. Also, I preferred bold fonts and contrasting colors to make the message stand out.

Design and Style

Since this sign reflects my business’s personality, I looked for designs that matched my brand’s vibe. Some signs are simple and professional, while others have a fun or vintage look. I chose one with a clean, modern design that fit my storefront’s aesthetic.

Additional Features

Some “Be Back Shortly” signs come with extra features like reversible sides (e.g., “Open” on one side and “Be Back Shortly” on the other), chalkboard surfaces to write custom messages, or hanging hooks for easy placement. I found a reversible sign useful because it saved me from changing signs frequently.

Price and Value

While shopping, I compared prices but focused more on quality and durability than just the lowest price. Spending a little more upfront saved me the hassle of replacing the sign frequently. There are options available for every budget, so I recommend balancing cost with features you actually need.

Where to Buy

I found a variety of options online, from marketplaces like Amazon to specialty sign retailers. Local craft stores also had unique handmade signs if you want something personalized. Ordering online gave me access to customer reviews, which helped me pick a reliable product.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right “Be Back Shortly” sign made a difference in communicating clearly with my customers and maintaining a professional look when I step away. By considering placement, material, size, design, and features, I was able to find a sign that fits my needs perfectly. I hope my experience helps you find the perfect sign for your business too!

Author Profile

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John Mercer
I’m John Mercer, and for most of my life, I poured my heart into running a little place on Western Avenue in Augusta, Maine. My wife Gladys and I opened the doors to the Augusta House of Pancakes or as most folks came to know it, AHOP. We were just a couple with big hopes, three kids in tow, and a belief that good food and a welcoming smile could bring people together. For over two decades, we served up more than just breakfast. We offered a warm seat, a familiar face, and a sense of home.

So in 2025, I began a new chapter: writing. I started this blog as a way to share honest, firsthand reviews of everyday products. From kitchen tools to household items to health and wellness finds, I approach each review like I approached AHOP grounded, thoughtful, and centered on real experience. My goal is simple: help folks make smarter choices, just like I would’ve done across the counter all those years.