What Do You Say When You Call in Sick?
There are many things to consider when calling in sick, and what you say can affect the way your boss and colleagues think about you. It can also have an impact on your work performance and future job prospects, so it’s important to be honest and respectful of your employer’s wishes.
The first step in preparing to call in sick is to know your company’s policies and practices. Find out who is responsible for handling the process of reporting sickness, and if you need to communicate your request via email, phone or written note.
You’ll also want to make sure your reason for sick leave is legitimate. The last thing you want to do is cause unnecessary stress or confusion on the team by faking your illness, which could have a negative impact on the rest of your time off.
If you have to leave your job for an extended period, be sure to let your manager or human resources know so they can ensure that you get the correct amount of time off and that your absence doesn’t adversely affect the business. They can also provide you with a list of people who should be made aware of your absence.
A doctor’s appointment is another valid reason for taking sick leave, but be sure to confirm it with a written note from your GP. Some companies have a strict policy on this, so you’ll need to check with yours.
Other reasons to call in sick include house emergencies, such as a gas leak or small fire. These situations can be more difficult to handle than a flu or stomach bug, and you may need to take a few days off to deal with them.
Diarrhea is another common ailment and often an acceptable excuse to miss work. It can be hard to convey that you’re suffering from diarrhea, so use phrases like “severe gastrointestinal distress” or “severe abdominal pain.”
Be honest and upfront about the reason you are sick, as this is important to show your employer that you are committed to the success of the business. Explain how long you plan to be out and if there are any projects that need to be taken care of while you are out.
If you are able to return to work once you’re well, be sure to sanitize your workspace and take steps to prevent the spread of germs. This will help your colleagues and boss avoid the same issues that you might have experienced.
Do not post anything on social media during your sick leave, especially if you’re using the platform as a personal account. This will be seen by your employer, and they might believe that you’re trying to ‘hide’ your sick day.
You’ll also need to reschedule meetings and set an out-of-office response on your email or work mobile if you have any notifications. This will ensure that any colleagues or external stakeholders don’t try to contact you while you are out and will help keep your boss happy and the team informed.
