by Bob Schmidt

Created on: February 02, 2008   Last Updated: September 18, 2009

The best excuse for calling in sick is the undecorated truth if you are really sick. If the truth about why you need to miss work is not something that should be revealed, the following excuses for missing a day at work will usually satisfy the boss.

Diarrhea....

Possibly the most popular excuse of them all, this problem is one that no boss wants to investigate. A number of excellent sources for this malady are available, including the number one ranked one of them all: "I think that I have food poisoning from something I ate last night."

Migraine Headache....

The favorite excuse of many because the recommended treatment is to lie down, put a pillow over your eyes to block all light, and sleep. It is really tough for any boss to accommodate this procedure at the office, so you are likely to "win" a sick day. It is recommended that this one not be overused.

Phantom Kidney Stones....

An excellent choice for the adventurous who also seek sympathy. Even minor kidney stones are known to cause excruciating pain, and most bosses cringe at the very thought of passing a stone. Male employees will find this excuse especially effective with male bosses.

My Time of the Month....

Obviously, a female employee option. Cramps, hormonal issues, and grumpiness are excellent reasons to be granted a day's grace. Remember ladies, keep records on this cyclical illness because your boss has a calendar too!

Family Problems....

Most bosses respond with understanding to the notion of a family problem. It can be effective to call in with the statement that one's spouse is on an emotional rampage and you are too distracted to do an honest day's work. If an offer to "make up the time" later accompanies the plea for a free day, many bosses will accommodate the request. Nobody wants a depressed and ineffective employee handling important tasks under their supervision.

Sick Days....

Some employees have sick days that must be used, or lost without compensation. Should this situation exist, "code" illnesses can be arranged with a cooperative supervisor that will cause less inconvenience in the workplace. Discuss your need to use up sick days before they are lost. Just remember that pre-planning the use of these sick days assures that no one is put into an unnecessary bind.

Request a Personal Day....

Since most employers appreciate honesty from their employees, it might be best to request a personal day instead of claiming illness. Not every boss will permit a personal day every time requested, but will respect an employee who demonstrates a dislike for not telling the truth. This request says something good about an employee's character.

In conclusion, it would be remiss to not point out that overusing sick-days can be costly. You can become viewed as being undependable, or not committed to your job. All kidding aside, be realistic about your priorities before risking your livelihood. Many employers are quite understanding about the importance of a private life, and are supportive to individual needs and desires. In other words, sometimes the best excuse is none at all. Your boss may be more compassionate than you realize if you communicate openly.

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