Illnesses
You have stomach pain and feel like vomiting. You may have...
food poisoning or a stomach flu.
not well - manager - sick day
You're not feeling well and need to ask your manager for a sick day.
Requesting a Sick Day
I’m not feeling well today. I think I need to take a sick day.
Be clear and specific.
State exactly what you need.
You wake up with a fever and headache. You realize you can't work today. It's 7:00am, and your shift starts at 8:00am. How do you notify?
Call or send a short text or chat message.
It hurts to swallow. You may have a...
sore throat or tonsillitis.
surgery - someone - shift
You have surgery next week and need someone to cover your shift.
Offering Help
I can take over the meeting. I can send the report for you. Don't worry, we've got it covered.
Provide context.
Explain why you need a sick day.
You start feeling unwell in the evening and think you won't be able to work tomorrow. How do you notify?
Send an email or message before bedtime.
If you feel very hot, you may have a...
temperature
you - colleague - sick
You're talking to a colleague and asking about someone who’s been sick.
Asking
Are you okay? How are you feeling? Do you need anything? Can I help with anything while you're off?
Be polite and respectful.
Always use polite language.
You have a doctor's appointment next Tuesday morning. You'll miss part of your workday. How do you notify?
Send an email or message a few days in advance.
I have a temperature, my body aches, and I feel terrible. I have...
the flu.
manager - you - co-worker - sick
Your manager asks if you can cover for a co-worker who is out sick.
Explaining
I can't come to work today. I'm feeling unwell. I have a fever. I've got a bad headache. I need to see a doctor. I have to take sick leave.
Be mindful of others' time.
Acknowledge their workload.
You start feeling dizzy and unwell while working and need to go home immediately. How do you notify?
Send a quick message or tell your supervisor directly.
My nose is runny, and I sneeze and cough. I have a...
cold.
manager - you - co-workers - cover
Tell your manager you're back after the flu and thank your co-workers for covering for you.
Covering for a Colleague
I can help with his tasks while he's away. I'll handle her clients until she returns.
Offer assistance in return.
Show your willingness to help them in the future.
You are on a business trip and suddenly feel sick. You won't be able to make it to the scheduled meeting. How do you notify?
By phone or email, depending on urgency.