Sick Leave Emails
If you have to communicate that you are taking a sick day, you have to follow the protocol for absences in your employer’s handbook or conform to your manager’s preferred communication method. Some companies may require a phone call or a text message before sending an email. You may also need to inform your colleagues and clients that you are out of the office. Whatever the method required, you should send your communication as soon as possible.
Some employers need a doctor’s note for sick leave that will last longer than three days. There are also other, stricter companies where you are required to submit a doctor’s note even if you will only be absent for one day.
What to include in your sick day email:
- the reason for your absence
- how long you will be absent from work
- an address that can be used for communication
- a doctor’s note and other documentation
- the name of a colleague that will do your job
5. Read this example email and answer the questions.
Dear Mr. Jones,
I won’t be able to come to work today because I don’t feel well and have a bad cough. I went to the emergency department last night and the doctor confirmed that I’ve got bronchitis.
The doctor prescribed 15 days off work as I need rest and am also contagious, so I asked Ben to take over my meeting with Ms. Jansen this afternoon. Ben will also handle my pending tasks while I’m away. I’ll be available by email for any urgent queries.
I’ve attached the doctor’s note to this email. I’d also appreciate it if you would forward this email with the attachment to HR, so that they can process my sick leave.
Thank you for your help.
Best regards,
Mary Logan
Questions:
- Are all the relevant parts present in this email?
- What type of illness does Mary have?
- How many days of sick leave does she need to take?
- Who will do her job during her absence?
- How can she be contacted during her sick leave?
- What is she asking her manager?
6. Write an email to communicate 10 days of sick leave. You broke your right arm in the gym. Invent any other missing information.
