Getting sick is always a hassle, but if you handle it right, it can show you’re on top of things. Let’s look at how to let your boss know you need a sick day the right way.

First off, know your company’s rules for sick days. Look over any papers HR gave you to get what to do. Some places want you to tell them in a certain way, at a certain time, or with certain papers.

When to Tell

Let your boss know fast when you need a day off for being sick. Try to do this before the day starts or really early so your team can change their plans if they need to.

Title your email so it’s short but says what it’s about, like:

“Sick Day Needed”
“Not Well, Can’t Work Today”
“Got to Stay Home, Sick”
Saying Hi

When you write, use your boss’s name and keep it polite yet warm, like:

“Hey [Boss’s Name],”
“Dear [Manager’s Vendor],”
Talking About Being Sick

Tell the truth but keep it short. You don’t need to give all the gory details. Just say:

“Not feeling good, need to take a sick day.”
“Got a fever, staying home today.”

Helping Out

Suggest how your work can get done while you’re away. This makes you look good and helps things keep moving:

“I told [Coworker’s Name] what’s up with my work.”
“I can answer emails if there’s something big.”

Needing a Doctor’s Note

If you need to be off a lot, you might need a note from the doctor. If that’s the case, say you’ll get it:

“Will get a note from the doctor when I’m back.”
“Tell me if you need more from my doctor.”
Ready to Talk

Check Your Message

Look over your email for mistakes before you send it. Be sure it sounds right and is easy to understand. Mistakes can be spelling errors, confusing stuff, or too many details about your sickness.

When you go back, catch up with your boss to say you’re back and how you are. This makes you look good and shows you care about your job.

Telling your boss properly when you need a sick day is the right thing to do and keeps trust and work going. Stick to these tips to make it easy for you and everyone else. Just remember, getting better is the main thing, so don’t rush if you need time to get well.