How To Call In Sick At Work (With Examples)

No matter how well you take care of yourself there will be days when you feel so ill that you can’t drag yourself from your bed. Rest and care are the best ways to recuperate. Forcing yourself to continue to work while ill will only delay your recovery.  When you’re not well enough to work you’ll have to call in sick, but this can be scary even if you get on well with your boss. There’s always that nagging doubt in the back of your mind of will ‘they believe me, or, do they think I’m pulling a sickie?’ In this guide, we cover when the best time to call in sick is, how to call in sick professionally along with examples of what to say and we also cover your rights when off sick.  Related: You Scared To Take Time Off Work Sick

When is the right time to call in sick?

It’s always best to let your employer know as soon as possible that you’re not well and won’t be working that day. You could do this the night before work or in the morning. This gives your boss adequate time to reschedule your diary and to reallocate tasks to your colleagues. 

How to call in sick professionally

Whether it’s a bad cold or a tummy bug, no matter how ill you feel you must muster up the energy to inform your employer that you won’t be working that day or consecutive days. Failing to do so could be breaking the terms of your employment contract. Also, in your contract, it may state how you have to inform your employer of your illness. It could be by email, call or text. The key to calling in sick is to keep the reason to the point - you don’t need to mention every symptom of your illness, and we’re sure your boss doesn’t want to hear it either. If you’re leading a team or are working on a team project, out of courtesy let them know as well. If you’re up to responding to urgent emails or calls, let your boss/team know this as well.  So, you get it right, here are some examples you could use in different scenarios:  

Calling, emailing or texting in sick

“Dear Ben,  I’m unable to come into work today because I’ve developed a high temperature and a headache. I hope this will improve by tomorrow. I’ll respond to urgent emails when I can but I’ve asked Clare to be my back-up for today.  Regards,  Daniella”

Attending a doctor’s appointment

“Dear Ben,  Overnight I’ve developed a rash. I’m worried that it may be contagious. I’ve arranged a doctor’s appointment for later today and will inform you ASAP of what they say. In the meantime, I’ll try to respond to urgent calls / emails when I can.  Regards,  Daniella” 

Calling in sick when you’ve just started a new job

“Dear Ben,  I’m afraid I’ve taken ill overnight and I won’t be able to attend work today. I’ve informed my training manager and my colleagues. I’m hoping to feel better tomorrow so I can attend work and continue with the training you’re generously providing me.  Regards,  Daniella”

Calling in sick when you have to give a presentation

“Dear Ben,  Unfortunately, I’ve come down with a heavy cold and I won’t be able to present at the meeting today. I’ve spoken with Clare and she’s agreed to speak for me. I’ve briefed her on what to say and I’ve sent over my speech notes and other documents.  I’ll be available to answer urgent calls or emails relating to the presentation during the day. Regards,  Daniella”

Whatever the scenario, have what you’re going to say planned out before you make contact and avoid saying things like; I felt like a day off so I won’t be in today, I had a late night last night and I’ve overslept or I have a hangover and I don’t feel my best.  These may seem like silly excuses, but some people have used them!  Related: National Sickie Day; Ridiculous Lies People Have Told To Pull A Sickie

Calling in sick when working remotely

Global circumstances mean that more and more people are now working from home. In fact, some figures suggest that it could be as high as 30% of adults are now solely home-based.  As you’re working from the comfort of your home, you may feel less inclined to call in sick, even if you don’t feel good. But, doing this could make your illness worse and cause you to take more days off work.  The process for calling in sick is the same for someone who is office-based or remote; let your boss know by the time outlined in your contract and using their preferred method and if you can, provide details of any urgent tasks that could be managed by your colleagues. Most importantly though, rest so you can get better.  Related: Tips To Avoid Burnout When Working Remotely

What are your rights to sick pay?

Each company has its own stance on offering company sick pay, and if you’re entitled to it, it will be detailed in your employment contract. You may also be able to claim Statutory Sick Pay (SSP) of £95.85 per week - this in addition to your company sick pay. SSP is generally limited to 28 weeks in a three year period. To make a claim for SSP, you must: 

• Be sick for four consecutive days (this includes Sunday and holidays) 
• Have notified your employer within their set time period, or within seven days if they don’t have one
• Be able to supply evidence that you’re not able to work, such as a doctor’s certificate 
• Earn at least £120 gross per week 

There are other aspects involved in claiming SSP including people who are exempt from claiming it. You can get further information on the .gov website.  Related: 8 Companies Offering Seriously Good Financial Benefits