How to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work ๐ฑ (with examples!) –
Introduction ๐
Taking an unexpected day off work can be very stressful – especially when it comes to explaining your absence to your manager. ๐ค
Whilst a lot of workplaces expect employees to phone in when they’re going to be absent from work, you might be lucky enough to only have to send your manager a text message to take the day off. ๐ฑ
Today we’re explaining how to text your boss to say that you can’t come in for work, and giving examples of what you can say to avoid upsetting your manager in the process. ๐ฌ
Why text might not be the best option ๐ฑ
Text messages might not be the best way to tell your boss that you canโt come into work for two main reasons:
1. Appearing too informal ๐งข
Firstly, text messages can come across as informal and might make it look like you don’t take work seriously. ๐
Text messages generally don’t appear as formal as emails or phone calls, which might come across better. ๐งโ๐ผ
2. Absence policies at work ๐
On top of this, lots of workplaces have specific rules called “absence policies” that outline exactly how you should tell your manager about being off work. ๐
Absence policies at work often set rules that people have to contact their manager in a more formal way than a text message, like a phone call or an email, to ensure that your absence is properly recorded and documented.
Following the set rules and procedures for your workplace can help you to appear professional. ๐งโ๐ผ
You can usually find out your workplace’s absence policy by asking your manager, or checking the HR/Human resource portal for your employer.
In summary, while texting can be quick and convenient, it might not always be the most appropriate or professional method for notifying your boss that you’re not going to work. ๐ฑ
How to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work ๐ฑ
1. Be clear and straight to the point ๐ฏ
When you need to inform your boss that you canโt make it to work, keep your message short and to the point. ๐
They might have to rush to arrange cover for you, so it’s important to make the message quick easy to understand so they can get started.
Make sure to include the most information like the reason for your absence and when you expect to return.
Example:
“Hi [Bossโs Name], Iโm feeling unwell today and wonโt be able to come into work. Iโll keep you updated on how Iโm feeling and will let you know if Iโll need more time. Thanks for understanding.”
2. Provide a reason ๐คทโโ๏ธ
While you donโt need to go into great detail, giving a brief reason for your absence helps your boss understand the situation better. Make sure to keep it professional and try to avoid oversharing.
Example:
“Hi [Bossโs Name], I have a family emergency and wonโt be able to make it to work today. Iโll keep you posted on any changes. Sorry for the short notice.”
3. Mention any important work tasks โ
If you have important tasks that need attention, mention them in your text and offer to provide updates or ask someone to cover them them if necessary. This shows that youโre still responsible and concerned about your work. ๐
Example:
“Hi [Bossโs Name], Iโm having car trouble this morning and wonโt be able to get to work. Iโve emailed [Colleagueโs Name] about the project, and they have the files. Iโll be available by phone if needed.”
4. Be professional and polite ๐งโ๐ผ
Even though youโre sending a text, maintain a professional tone. A polite message shows respect and helps keep a good relationship with your boss.
Example:
“Hi [Bossโs Name], Iโm feeling under the weather today and wonโt be able to come in. Iโll check in later to see if I need to extend my absence. Thank you for your understanding.”
5. Make sure that your social media posts are appropriate ๐คซ
Once you’ve told your boss that you’re off work it’s important to consider what your boss would think of any posts you put on social media afterwards. ๐ค
Would they be happy to see you out shopping if you’re meant to be off sick? ๐๏ธ
Probably not, so it’s important to be careful with what you post until you’re back at work to avoid getting into trouble.
6. Follow up ๐
After sending your initial text, follow up with a phone call or email if needed. ๐ง
This is particularly important if your time off work extends beyond a single day or if you need to provide more details.
Example:
“Hi [Bossโs Name], just a quick follow-up to let you know Iโm still not feeling well and might need to take another day off. Iโll update you again tomorrow. Thanks for your patience.”
Conclusion ๐
So that’s it!
To text your boss to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work, you should:
- Be clear and straight to the point ๐ฏ
- Provide a reason ๐คทโโ๏ธ
- Mention any important work tasks โ
- Be professional and polite ๐งโ๐ผ
- Make sure that your social media posts are appropriate ๐คซ
- Follow up ๐
Hopefully this article has helped you to understand better how to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work.
If you know anyย friends or family membersย who might benefit from learning about how to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work, share this post with them!
Finally, don’t forget to check out our similar articles below!
Similar articles to “How to text your boss to say that you can’t come into work ๐ฑ (with examples!)” โฌ๏ธ
How to be a grown-up: 10 skills you should learn to feel more like an adult ๐
How to use social media without hurting your mental health ๐ฉน
What am I good at? 25 valuable skills
What digital skills are in demand? 10 digital skills for you to learn๐ฉโ๐ป
9 essential digital skills you should learn to navigate life ๐ป
10 ways to be less hard on yourself ๐
133 ways to make someone feel special ๐
What is a line manager? ๐ฉโ๐ผ
Teamwork makes the dream work! How to work well in a team ๐งโ๐คโ๐ง
What do employers look for in a CV/resume? Top tips to stand out โจ
What do employers look for? The top 3 qualities employers want from you ๐
The 6 main types of job interview (and how to prepare for them!)๐จโ๐ผ
5 ways to improve your mental wellbeing ๐ง
๐
Follow us!
for free daily Grown-Up lessons ๐๐