Tips for Making the Call

Calling in sick is something that sometimes people build up to be this really big thing, because we all fear others will not believe that we are ill. (If you’re not ill, and are just calling in to take a free vacation day, that’s a different story.) Here’s some tips to make the call painless and quick:

• Call voicemail or send an email. Whenever possible, call your boss’s voice mail or send him an e-mail rather than speaking with him or her directly. This avoids the possibility of questions and awkward advice that often trips up the caller.
• Keep the message short and to the point. Sometimes people feel the need to go into some degree of detail when describing why they’re not coming in, including descriptions of the particular illness. This is not necessary and nobody really wants that level of detail. Just mention some of the symptoms you’re experiencing and your feeling like it would be best to take care of yourself. If you’re going to see a doctor about the illness, mention that as well.
• Call as soon as you’ve decided to stay home. The earlier in the day or the sooner before your shift starts, the better. That way your boss can find someone to take your place (if it’s a job that requires a certain staffing level), and will appreciate being given the notice and time to do so.
• Feeling ill over a number of days. If you’ve been feeling ill for a few days, mention it to a coworker or your boss in passing as you’re experiencing the illness. That reinforces the message that you are indeed sick when you call in to take a day off for it. Don’t make plans at the office for your sick day, even if you know you’re calling in sick the next day. It hurts your credibility if your plans are discovered.

Remember, sick days are a benefit of many modern places of work, and it is something the company has factored into their overall finances and operations. Companies recognize that we all get sick from time to time and need some time off because of it. Use your sick days when you’re feeling sick, and your co-workers will be thankful that you didn’t spread the illness within the workplace or office.

    Last reviewed: By John M. Grohol, Psy.D. on 23 Jan 2007
    Published on PsychCentral.com. All rights reserved.