When and How to Call in Sick

With so many viruses like the cold and flu and still the coronavirus making its way through so many households, calling in sick is increasingly common. But with a paycheck and career on the line, many people are uncertain when to call in sick or if they should just ride it out. We've got you.

Stay Home If You’re Contagious

Experiencing a headache, body aches, cough, sneezing, vomiting, fever or sweats? Those are signs that a virus is starting to attack the body and you're most likely contagious. While it could mean anything from the coronavirus to the flu, there is a really good chance that it's contagious no matter what it is. Not only is it important to take care of yourself, but the last thing you want to do is also infect your coworkers. What may only be a mild inconvenience for you could make someone else very seriously ill. So if there's any chance you could be contagious, call it in. Let's look at how to call in sick and then we'll cover working from home.

Call in as Soon as Possible

If symptoms strike the night before work, consider calling in that night even if you have to leave a message. This gives your employer a chance to find someone to cover for you if needs be rather than starting off being while they need to scramble for help which could leave them with a bad feeling about you even though it's not warranted.

If you wake up sick, call in as soon as you can. Be sure to call as far in advance of your designated arrival time as possible.

Call Your Boss, Don’t Text

We know you're sick and the last thing you want to do is talk to the boss and risk feeling guilty but trust us, it's the best way. Try to avoid texting to the boss that you will be a no-show. A polite and informative phone call sests the most professional tone and shows them that you're serious. The only exception would be if your boss had expressed to you directly that they would prefer a text or email in the event that you’re unable to make it in.  If you’ve lost your voice and are unable to speak by phone (or if a disability precludes it, obviously) a text would be acceptable.

Even if you left a voicemail the night before, it's still a good idea to call in the morning and make sure your boss got our message and that they're aware of the situation. There's a good chance that your boss or supervisor may not receive a message in time or may dismiss it altogether in the rush of morning duties—so be courteous and call in even if you called the night before. 

Be Direct and to the Point

There's no point in beating around the bush and making it seem like you're undecided. If you know you're staying home, come right out with it and say you won't be coming in. Be sure to talk to them directly, and don't relay the message through other employees, and take a moment to explain exactly what's wrong. If you injured yourself off the job, tell them you'll give them more feedback once you’ve had a physical exam. 

Don’t Lie about Illness When You're Just Hungover

A night of partying is not an acceptable excuse for missing work by most standards and making a habit of coming to work in this state is almost certain to get you fired but dont't call a hangover "sick" with a boss who probably knows better. Honesty is the best policy, even if the boss gets mad. Just don't make a habit of it and most employers have been there and will be understanding as long as you assure them you'll be more careful in the future. Don't be afraid to ask for another chance and admit you screwed up by partying on a work night.

Try to Get a Doctor's Note

If you've had COVID-19 or another serious or contagious condition, clearance from a medical professional may be recommended. Be prepared to get a doctor's note for the time you need to take off if i's going to be more than a day or two. If you're seriously ill, you should probably see a doctor anyway.

How to Call in Sick if You Work From Home

Some employers may struggle with boundaries and may ask you to just do this one thing or that other thing since you're a work from home employee anyway. If you're up to it, go ahead, but if not, don't be afraid to set boundaries and say that you really need to rest. And be sure that if you do work even part of the day, that you get paid for it. It's not acceptable to have our work treated as "a favor" when in fact, it's your job and you should be getting paid for every minute you're on the clock whether at home or not.

Good attendance is at the forefront of every raise and employee record so it really matters that we choose wisely when we call in sick and when we tough it out. Sickness can't be helped, but proper and effective communication can be. Next time you're sick, be sure to communicate properly and promptly with your employer. And make sure not to expose your coworkers. Get well soon!

Copyright 2021, Wellness.com