Examples of Calling Out Sick Messages to Your Boss

Everyone · Explainer · Updated October 1, 2026 · LearnLife Editorial

What Is a Calling Out Sick Message to Your Boss?

A calling out sick message is a formal notification you send to your employer or supervisor when you are too ill to come to work. This message can be delivered by phone call, email, or text, depending on workplace norms and policies. The purpose is to inform your boss as early as possible that you cannot fulfill your job duties due to health reasons. It should be concise but include essential details such as your symptoms or general condition (if comfortable sharing), how long you anticipate being absent, and any instructions for handling urgent tasks in your absence.

For example, a simple message might say, “Good morning, I am not feeling well today due to a stomach virus and will not be able to come in. I will update you tomorrow about my status.” Avoid vague statements like “I won’t be in” without context, which can cause unnecessary worry or confusion. Clear communication sets expectations and helps your employer plan for your absence.

How Does Sending a Sick Message to Your Boss Work in Practice?

Imagine you wake up with a sore throat, fever, and headache. You know you won’t be able to work because you need rest and to avoid spreading illness. Here’s how to handle the situation step-by-step:

1. Assess your symptoms and decide you need to stay home.
2. Check your workplace’s policy on calling out sick. Some require a phone call; others accept texts or emails.
3. Prepare your message. Example: “Hi [Boss’s Name], I woke up feeling feverish and unable to work today. I will rest and keep you updated if I’m able to return tomorrow.”
4. Send or make the call as early as possible—ideally before your shift starts.
5. If you have any urgent tasks scheduled, mention who can cover them or offer to assist remotely if you feel capable.

By following these steps, you help your boss manage workload adjustments, avoid last-minute disruptions, and show responsibility even while unwell. If your job involves shifts or customer service, early notification is especially important to arrange substitutes.

Why Does Calling Out Sick Properly Matter for Employees?

Properly notifying your employer about a sick day is crucial for several reasons. First, it builds professional trust and shows respect for your workplace. When you communicate clearly and promptly, your boss can plan coverage, redistribute workloads, or reschedule meetings. This reduces stress on your coworkers and helps maintain smooth operations.

Second, it protects you from attendance-related issues. If you fail to notify or provide vague excuses, your absence might be marked as unexcused or lead to disciplinary actions. Clear communication also supports your eligibility for sick leave benefits if your employer offers them.

Third, calling out sick properly helps your mental and physical health. When you inform your employer and take time off, you avoid pushing yourself beyond your limits, which could worsen your condition or prolong recovery. It also prevents spreading contagious illnesses to colleagues, supporting a healthier work environment.

Finally, good communication sets a positive example and contributes to a respectful workplace culture. Being honest and professional about absences encourages coworkers to do the same, promoting fairness and understanding across the team.

What Are Common Mistakes or Confusions About Calling Out Sick?

Many people make avoidable mistakes when calling out sick. Common errors include:

• Waiting too long to notify the boss, sometimes informing them after the shift starts.
• Providing vague or unclear messages like “I’m not feeling well” without any timeline or follow-up plan.
• Oversharing personal medical details, which can feel uncomfortable or unnecessary.
• Confusing “calling out sick” with requesting vacation days or personal leave.
• Failing to check or follow company policies about how and when to report absences.
• Using informal channels like casual social media posts instead of direct communication with supervisors.

For example, a message like “Not coming in today” sent at 9:30 am when the shift started at 8 am can upset managers and coworkers. Instead, a message sent at 6:30 am stating, “I’m feeling unwell with flu symptoms and will not come in today. I will update you tomorrow morning” shows consideration.

Understanding these distinctions and avoiding mistakes helps maintain your reputation and supports workplace harmony.

What Should You Include in Your Sick Message to Your Boss?

A well-structured sick message typically contains these key elements:

Here’s a full example message combining these elements: “Good morning, [Boss’s Name]. I woke up with a fever and sore throat and won’t be able to come to work today. I will rest and aim to return on Thursday but will keep you updated. I have asked [Coworker] to handle my urgent tasks this afternoon. Thank you for your understanding.”

Including these points ensures your message is complete, professional, and helpful.

How Should You Follow Up After Sending a Sick Message?

If your illness lasts more than one day, follow-up communication is necessary. This keeps your boss informed and prevents confusion about your status. Here’s how to manage follow-ups:

• Send a brief update at the start of each day you remain absent. For example, “Good morning, I’m still experiencing symptoms and won’t be able to come in today. I will check in again tomorrow.”
• If you improve and plan to return, notify your employer the day before or morning of your return. For example, “I’m feeling better and plan to return to work tomorrow.”
• If your workplace requires documentation such as a doctor’s note after a certain number of sick days, arrange to provide it promptly.
• If your condition worsens or you anticipate a longer absence, communicate this clearly and as early as possible.
• Keep any communication professional and concise, avoiding unnecessary medical details.

Regular follow-up shows accountability and respect for your employer’s need to manage staffing and workload.

What Are the Best Ways to Send a Sick Message: Email, Text, or Phone Call?

Selecting the right communication method depends on your company’s culture, urgency, and your boss’s preferences:

• Phone call: Best for urgent situations or if your absence will significantly impact the team. It ensures your message is received and allows immediate questions or clarifications. For example, “Hi [Boss’s Name], I’m calling to let you know I have the flu and won’t be in today. I’ll keep you updated.”
• Email: Useful for detailed messages or when documentation is preferred. It creates a written record that can be referenced later. For example, a morning email explaining symptoms, absence duration, and work coverage.
• Text message: Convenient for quick notifications, especially if texting is common in your workplace. Keep it professional and concise. For example, “Hi [Boss’s Name], I’m sick today with a fever and can’t work. Will update you tomorrow.”

Always check your employee handbook or ask your supervisor how they prefer to receive sick notices. Some workplaces have designated phone lines or forms for reporting absences, while others are more informal.

What To Do Next After Calling Out Sick?

After notifying your boss, focus on your health and recovery. Follow these steps:

• Rest adequately; avoid checking work emails or messages unless necessary.
• Stay hydrated and follow any care instructions from your doctor or health provider.
• Monitor your symptoms and document them if your employer requires medical verification.
• Prepare mentally to return to work by reviewing any communications or updates you receive.
• If your job involves physical labor, assess your readiness before returning to avoid injury.
• Upon return, greet your team and be ready to catch up on missed work professionally.
• If your illness was contagious, follow workplace health policies, such as wearing masks or staying home longer if advised.

This approach helps ensure a smooth transition back to your role and demonstrates responsibility.

Frequently asked questions

Can I call out sick if I’m feeling mentally unwell?

Yes, mental health is a valid reason to call out sick. Communicate honestly but professionally, for example, “I am experiencing some health issues today and need to take a sick day to recover.” Check your employer’s policy on mental health days.

What if I don’t have a sick day policy at my job?

Even if your employer doesn’t offer formal sick leave, notify them promptly if you can’t work due to illness. This maintains professionalism and minimizes misunderstandings about your absence.

How much information should I share about my illness?

Share only what you’re comfortable with and what is necessary to explain your absence. Avoid detailed medical histories. A brief statement like “flu symptoms” or “stomach illness” is usually sufficient.

What if my boss does not respond to my sick message?

If you don’t get a reply, try following up with a phone call or email to confirm your message was received. Keep a record of your communication in case of future questions.

Can I work from home if I’m feeling sick but not too ill?

This depends on your job and employer. If remote work is possible and you feel up to it, offer to work from home in your message, for example, “I’m feeling unwell but can answer emails if needed.”